Fun and Memorable Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Kids in Baton Rouge
New Year’s Eve can feel a little tricky to celebrate when you have kids in tow. While the traditional midnight countdown might not fit into every family’s routine, there are plenty of ways to create special memories that kids and parents alike will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for local events, cozy at-home traditions, or family-friendly outings, we’ve got you covered with these creative ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve with kids.
Spend the Day at Main Event Baton Rouge
Kick off the celebrations early at Main Event Baton Rouge! Located on Burbank, this spot is ideal for kids of all ages. With games, activities, and a festive atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to spend the day as a family. The fun starts on Tuesday at 10 am, so swing by and enjoy everything they have to offer.
Celebrate Noon Year’s Eve at Knock Knock Museum
If you’re celebrating with little ones who might not make it to midnight, Baton Rouge’s Knock Knock Museum’s Noon Year’s Eve bash is a fantastic option. From 10 am to 12:30 pm, enjoy a child-friendly “ball drop,” a confetti cannon, and engaging activities spread across all 18 Learning Zones. It’s sure to delight even the tiniest party-goers!
Family-Friendly Dining Options
Want to enjoy a delicious meal out on New Year’s Eve without worrying about the little ones? Bring the whole family to restaurants offering special holiday menus like Spoke and Hub, Beausoleil, and Rouj Creole. These spots cater to families and make the dining experience special for all ages.
Get Crafty at Red Stick Rising
Head over to the River Center Library from 11 am to 12:30 pm for an engaging experience the kids will remember. Red Stick Rising brings crafts, sing-alongs, and hands-on activities for children of all ages to enjoy. It’s a wonderful way to immerse your family in creative fun while celebrating the festive spirit of the season.
Fireworks on the Mississippi
For families who can make it past bedtime, the dazzling fireworks show on the Mississippi River is worth staying up for! Pack some blankets, grab warm cocoa in a thermos, and enjoy the breathtaking display as you usher in the New Year.
Make It a Play Date
For a relaxing and fun way to spend the evening, consider teaming up with another family whose kids are close in age to yours. Play dates can keep the children entertained while the parents enjoy some adult conversations. You can set up activities for the kids, like crafts or movie marathons, and end the evening early if needed to maintain bedtime routines. A bonus tip? Bring along a pack-and-play if you’re heading to a friend’s house — it’s perfect for little ones who might need a nap mid-celebration.
Host Your Own Party
If you’d rather stick close to home, hosting your own New Year’s Eve party can be a great option. Keep it low-key with just a few family members or friends, and make it a fun experience for the kids. Here are some ways to make it extra special for them:
- Sparkling Apple Juice Toasts: Kids will love raising their glasses for a toast to ring in the New Year, just like the grown-ups.
- Netflix Countdown: No need to wait until midnight! Choose a kid-friendly countdown from Netflix’s New Year’s Eve Countdown Collection and celebrate on your own schedule.
- Saran Wrap Ball Game: To keep the little ones entertained, set up a game where prizes are wrapped in layers of plastic wrap. Everyone takes turns unwrapping the ball to uncover fun surprises.
- Hire a Sitter for kids’ activities at the start of the night so parents can enjoy a bit of downtime before bedtime routines kick in.
The beauty of an at-home party? Your kids can enjoy the fun and still sleep in their own beds at their regular bedtime. If they sleep soundly, you might even sneak in a round of fireworks with family and friends outside!
There are so many ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve with kids- you just have to get creative! Which of these ideas will your family be trying this year? Share your plans in the comments—we’d love to hear how you’ll be ringing in the New Year! 🎉
