Ring in the New Year at These Kid-Friendly Events

The new year is almost here, and that means it’s time to celebrate. Start a new tradition this year by gathering the family and joining in the fun at one of Wisconsin’s many kid-friendly New Year's Eve events. From unique “ball drops” to tasty treats, have a New Year’s Eve your crew won’t soon forget at these one-of-a-kind festive celebrations. 

Delightful Drops

It’s always a tradition to watch New York City’s glittering ball drop, but around here, we love a New Year’s Eve with a Wisconsin twist.

In Sister Bay, your children will be mesmerized as they watch the Cherry Drop, which—you guessed it—is a twinkling red cherry that celebrates Door County’s famous fruit. Complete with pre-midnight ice skating and a toasty bonfire, kids will marvel at the 7-foot wide, 300-pound cherry as it counts down to the new year. A show-stopping fireworks show happens at 8 p.m., and there are sure to be plenty of sweet treats to share.

Head to Plymouth to see another Wisconsin specialty take center stage at the Big Cheese Drop. Take part in festive activities like sipping hot cocoa, listening to live music and sitting by a bonfire. If you’re mindful of tucking your kids in early on New Year’s Eve, you’ll be pleased to know that the lit-up, 80-pound wedge of cheese will drop at 10 p.m. instead of midnight.

East Troy also hosts their very own NYE ball drop–twice! One drop takes place at 8 p.m. for families with another at true midnight. With drinks and a toasty s’mores station, this is a party everyone in your group is sure to enjoy.

More Family Events

Make a weekend of it at Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan, where the New Year’s Eve package includes adult and kid dinner buffets followed by a DJ dance party. Dance the night away and enjoy the 10 p.m. sparkling cider toast or make it all the way to midnight for a true New Year’s toast.

For more resort fun, Mt. Olympus keeps its indoor rides open late and also includes a walk-through light show, DJ and balloon drop.

Bring the kids to the stylish and fun Little Village Play Cafe in Milwaukee for crafts, dancing and a not-too-late balloon drop.

Also in Milwaukee, celebrate early in the day with face painting, dancing and a noon ball drop at the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum. And in Stevens Point, you can find another noon ball drop at the Central Wisconsin Childrens Museum.

See an incredible show the whole family will enjoy--watching the Harlem Globetrotters dribble, spin and dunk at Fiserv Forum.

In Middleton, head to KEVA Sports Center for kids entertainment including interactive live music, a magic show, a photo booth and much more.

Looking for more holiday fun? Check out these New Year's Eve festivities or browse our full event directory!