If your kids are excited to welcome 2020 but won’t be able to stay awake to watch the ball drop, don’t worry! The DC area offers a variety of daytime activities to ring in the New Year before bedtime, including dance parties, concerts, and a cruise down the Patapsco River. Here are seven family-friendly New Year’s Eve events taking place around the District on December 31.
Noon Yards Eve A fun twist on the typical midnight celebration, The Yards midday party will be buzzing with family-friendly activities like trackless train rides, glitter tattoos, balloon artists, moon bounces and music galore! Be there at noon for a countdown and balloon drop.
10 a.m. at The Yards Park, Washington, DC. Free.
Noon Year’s Eve Party Ideal for kids 10 and under, this daytime celebration will include face painting, balloon animals, holiday crafts and a sparkling apple juice toast for the countdown. Reservations required.
11 a.m. at Capitol Cider House, Washington, DC. Free.
Rocknoceros New Year’s Eve Ball Local family-friendly band Rocknoceros will have your kids on their feet, dancing their way towards 2020. Both shows will include a countdown and apple juice toast to welcome the New Year.
11 a.m. & 2 p.m. at Jammin Java, Vienna, VA. $10.
New Year’s Eve Family Lunch Cruise Celebrate the arrival of a new decade on the Patapsco River with Spirit Cruises. Featuring a buffet lunch, dancing and festive holiday décor, this will be one boat ride your kids won’t soon forget.
10:45 a.m. at 580 Water Street SW, Washington DC. $39.90-$74.90.
Noon Year’s Eve Celebration Sparkling cider, light refreshments and the opportunity to make New Year’s resolutions are a family-friendly way to welcome 2020. A celebratory countdown will take place at noon with a balloon drop.
11:30 a.m. at the Capitol View Library, Washington, DC. Free.
First Night Alexandria Now in its 25th year, this annual music festival takes over Old Town, turning shops, museums and public buildings into performance venues for singers, comedians and magicians. The area’s only fireworks display over the Potomac River takes place at midnight. Children 12 and under will have a ball at the Kids Karnival, featuring face painting, games, balloons and other age-appropriate activities.
6 p.m. at Old Town Alexandria, VA. Free for kids 12 and under. $30.
Family New Year’s Eve Celebration If the kids can stay up late, give them a night to remember at Adventure Park USA. Enjoy all of the indoor attractions at this family-friendly New Year’s Eve event, which also includes food, drink and dancing, before the massive balloon drop at midnight.
9 p.m. at Adventure Park USA, Monrovia, MD. $28.95
By Adora Brown
