Ring in the New Year with little kids (2013)

Today there are kid-centered New Year’s parties to attend that don’t blur into the next morning. Five choices in the East Bay include:

Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland
Ring in 2013 with your kids, and the rest of the planet, at this daytime Balloon Drop Celebration. There are three drop times at two locations are available for kids of all ages to party. This year’s event features special prizes for all the kids who make a conscious effort to reuse and reduce. Some times/ages still available. Space is limited and registration is required. Call (510) 336-7373 to register.

Super Franks in Pleasanton
This family-centric New Years Eve celebration includes buffet dinner, tons of organized games and activities, arcade tokens, ice cream cake, an awesome stage program (starring Super Frankie) plus a balloon drop at the stroke of 9pm! (we watch the east coast feed, so the kids can get to bed at a decent time.) for $24.99 per person. This event will sell out, so get your tickets soon. 6:30-9:15pm. Fun for those who can handle being up til 9.

Pacific Pinball Museum in Alameda
For big kids, this event goes from 6pm to 1am. Tickets to the party are $30 for adults and $15 for kids 12 + under, but include unlimited free pinball play on over 90 machines, snacks, champagne at midnight, and chance for prizes.

Lawrence Hall of Science in Berkeley
Count down to New Years in countries all around the globe, with noisemakers, sparkling cider toasts, and a special balloon drop.
12:00–2:00 p.m., Balloon drop at 2pm is included free with Admission

At home at your house. Sparkling cider, videos, twinkly lights, or however you choose. Kids go to bed when you say!

How will you celebrate with your littles?

[Photo from the 2012 Chabot Ball Drop]