Best Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events in Chicagoland

Welcome 2023 with these family events in the city and suburbs.

2023 already seems like a year we can finally look forward to (fingers crossed.) There are many local events for New Year’s Eve perfect for family-friendly entertainment and excitement for all ages.

Check out these New Year’s Eve events in the Chicago area for creative ways to get in the party mood.

Teenie Weenie New Year’s Eve Ball at Simkus Recreation Center

Dec. 30, 2022

Kids 8 and under get an early start on the festivities in a countdown to noon! Activities include a live DJ, bounce house, games, crafts and a balloon drop. Advanced registration required.

Blue Man Group Chicago New Year’s Eve Performances at Briar Street Theatre

Dec. 31, 2022

Blue Man Group invites guests to celebrate the New Year with four festive New Year’s Eve performances. The 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. shows are for families with young children. 

Bubble Bash New Year’s Eve at DuPage Children’s Museum

Dec. 31, 2022

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!

Countdown to Fun at Discovery Center Museum

Dec. 31, 2022

Families can join Discovery Center for an early countdown celebration for the New Year. There will be confetti drops every hour. Make a party hat, a noisemaker and more.

Family-Friendly “Cheers Heard Around the World” at SafeHouse Chicago

Dec. 31, 2022

Ring in the New Year with cities around the world including London and Paris. Regular dining will be available along with all the fun interactive activities.

Family New Year’s Eve at Recreation Center Gym

Dec. 31, 2022

This New Year’s Eve bring the whole family and celebrate the incoming New Year with a rockin’ DJ, bounce houses, snacks, party favors and a balloon drop at noon to welcome in the New Year

Happy Noon Year at Park Center

Dec. 31, 2022

Ages 3-7 and an accompanying adult can enjoy celebrating “Noon Year.” There will be inflatables, games and other activities. Also a massive balloon drop planned. Pre-registration is required.

New Year’s Eve Family Party at Enchanted Castle

Dec. 31, 2022

Each paid guest will enjoy a buffet and receive $15 in game play, unlimited select video games, four hours of unlimited go-karts, laser tag, miniature golf, bumper cars, catapult ride and Quest II Adventure Playland. There will be a balloon drop, party favors, New Year’s toast and countdown celebration.

New Year’s Eve Family Party at Haunted Trails Burbank

Dec. 31, 2021

Guests will enjoy a New Year’s buffet including soft drinks and dessert, plus each paid guest receives $25 in game Play, one Lazer Frenzy Challenge, party hats, favors, a balloon drop, New Year’s toast and countdown celebration. Advanced registration required.

New Year’s Eve Family Party at Haunted Trails Joliet

Dec. 31, 2022

Guests will enjoy a New Year’s buffet including soft drinks and dessert, plus each paid guest receives $15 in Game Play, one Lazer Frenzy Challenge, party hats, favors a Balloon Drop, New Year’s toast and countdown celebration.

New Year’s Eve Signature Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan at Navy Pier

Dec. 31, 2022 

Enjoy a buffet style lunch while you see the incredible views of Chicago’s iconic skyline and architecture. Also, DJ entertainment, a sparkling wine toast (21-plus) and complimentary iced tea, coffee and hot tea.

Noon Year’s Eve at Sachs Recreation Center

Dec. 31, 2022

Join Sachs Recreation Center in counting down to 2023 and celebrate New Year’s Eve. Enjoy a DJ dance party, games and a countdown to noon with a balloon drop. For ages 4-8. Pre-registration is required.

Noon Year’s Eve Countdown at Edgebrook Branch

Dec. 31, 2022

Ages 4-9 can enjoy a story time and some fun facts about New Year’s Eve. There will also be a craft and a countdown to noon with party hats, stickers and confetti.

Square Dance into the New Year at The Grove

Dec. 31, 2022

Ages 10 and up can learn to dance with the Glenview Squares and take part in a New Year’s Eve toast at the end. No experience needed. No partner required.

This post is updated annually.

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