The new year is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to welcome a year full of fresh beginnings and new adventures.
If you’re looking to make the most of your New Year’s Eve with the whole family, we’ve got you covered! From exciting countdowns to kid-approved parties, Chicagoland has an array of festive events that will make ringing in the New Year a blast for all ages.
Whether you’re in the city or the suburbs, check out these fantastic kids New Year’s Eve parties that are sure to kick off your 2026 with fun, laughter and plenty of memories!
Updated Oct. 28, 2025: This article was reviewed and updated by the Chicago Parent editorial team to reflect new event dates, refreshed links and the latest information available for families.
Noon Year’s Eve Party at Santori Library
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Dec. 29, 2025
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Address: Santori Library, 101 S. River St., Aurora
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Cost: Free (ticketed program; tickets available 30 minutes prior)
Get an early start on the New Year at this fun, family-friendly celebration made just for little ones! Kids ages 0-5 and their caregivers can enjoy a lively dance party, games and a festive balloon drop right at noon. It’s the perfect way to welcome 2026 without staying up late; complete with laughter, music and community fun. Tickets are free but required, and can be picked up at the children’s desk before the event.
Countdown to Fun: A New Year’s Eve Party at The Recreation Complex
5:30-7 p.m. Dec. 29, 2025
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Address: The Recreation Complex, 111 E. Foster Ave., Wood Dale
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Cost: $15/resident; $19/non-resident
Ring in the New Year a little early with an evening made just for young kids! Families can enjoy music, dancing, crafts, pizza and a kid-friendly countdown to the “New Year.” The night wraps up with a festive balloon drop to celebrate in true party style. Designed for children ages 6 and under, this event offers the perfect mix of fun and excitement before bedtime. Registration required.
Teenie Weenie New Year’s Eve Ball at Fountain View Recreation Center
10:30 a.m.-noon Dec. 30, 2025
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Address: Fountain View Recreation Center, 910 N. Gary Ave., Carol Stream
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Cost: $5–$8/resident; $7–$12/non-resident; adults free (must stay)
Kick off the New Year Teenie Weenie style with a fun-filled morning made just for kids ages 8 and under! Families can dance to a live DJ, jump in the bounce house and enjoy games, crafts and a festive balloon drop at noon. Light refreshments will be served. Registration is required. Register by Dec. 5 to receive the discounted price. Registration closes Dec. 26 at noon but reopens for in-person sign-ups the day of the event at Fountain View.
New Year’s Beach Ball Drop Pool Party at Vaughan Athletic Center
6-8 p.m. Dec. 30, 2025
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Address: Vaughan Athletic Center, 2121 W. Indian Trail, Aurora
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Cost: $13–$15/resident; $15–$17/non-resident; free/under age 2
Make a splash while ringing in the New Year at this fun-filled pool party for the whole family! Enjoy water slides, a floating obstacle course, splash zones and a zero-entry pool before joining the exciting Beach Ball Drop Countdown. Refreshments will be available, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult age 16 or older. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the end of the year with a little aquatic adventure!
Bubble Bash New Year’s Eve
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 31, 2025
- Address: DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville
- Cost: $20-$25/member ticket, $30-$35/non-member ticket, free/children under 1
Spend time together creating lasting memories, taking part in special activities, grooving to good music, exploring the museum’s hands-on exhibits and counting down to the new year!
Noon Year’s Eve Skate at RCRC Ice Rink
10:30 a.m.-noon Dec. 31, 2025
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Address: RCRC Ice Rink, 415 Lake St., Oak Park
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Cost: $15–$20
Glide into the New Year with a festive family skate celebration! The rink will be decked out with bright decorations, lively music and giveaways, leading up to a balloon drop at noon sharp. Perfect for all ages, this early celebration lets families enjoy the excitement of New Year’s Eve without staying up late. Bring your skates or rent a pair and join the fun on the ice!
New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Midnight Dec. 31, 2025
- Address: Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
- Cost: Free
Enjoy seeing fireworks at Navy Pier when the clock strikes midnight.
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