As the clock counts down for New Year’s Eve, many Texas families want to spend it in a fun way together. From exciting activities, countdowns early in the evening, and engaging events, there are plenty of family-friendly options in Texas that would make New Year’s Eve an unforgettable event for children as well as parents. Whether you’re planning a daytime adventure or an early evening celebration, these events cater to families with children of all ages. Here’s a detailed look at the top places to spend New Year’s Eve with your family in Texas.
1. Epic Waters Family New Year in Grand Prairie
For a New Year’s Eve filled with fun and adventure, head to Epic Waters, the massive indoor-outdoor water park in Grand Prairie. The luau party, complete with circus and aerial performances, hula dancing, and interactive games, transforms the 800,000 square feet of the park complex. Rubber duck drops happen at 6 p.m., 8 p.m., 10 p.m., and midnight. Families can choose a countdown time that best fits their schedule. There is an option for a luau dinner buffet for an additional fee.
Why It’s Great:
Kids will enjoy the water activities and performances, and parents can sit back and soak in the festive ambiance.
Details:
When: Dec. 31, 1 p.m. to Jan. 1, 1 a.m.
Where: Epic Waters, Grand Prairie
Cost:
$44 for the party, $76 for the party and dinner. Free for children 3 and under.
2. Noon Year’s Eve at the Dallas Arboretum
Farewell to 2024 early at the Dallas Arboretum’s Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden. This event holds a Noon Year’s Eve celebration, which consists of a ball drop and a bubble dance party with some fun winter-themed STEM activities thrown in for good measure. It’s a wonderful way to let kids enjoy the celebrations without having to stay awake.
Why It’s Great:
The event balances educational activities with having a ball, making it the perfect spot for families looking for wholesome celebrations.
Details:
When: Dec. 31 at noon
Where: Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, Dallas Arboretum
Cost:
$22 for adults, $13 for children, plus $3 admission to the Children’s Adventure Garden
3. Countdown to Noon at Sci-Tech Discovery Center in Frisco
For a science-themed New Year’s celebration, go to the Sci-Tech Discovery Center in Frisco. Families can enjoy multiple countdowns with ball drops, holiday-themed STEM activities, and fun crafts. This science-themed celebration is unique for kids while keeping them engaged.
Why It’s Great:
It is ideal for inquisitive kids who enjoy hands-on activities and learning.
Details:
When: Dec. 31, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Sci-Tech Discovery Center, Frisco
Cost:
$15 per person, free for children under 3 (timed tickets required)
4. New Year’s Eve Celebration at The Learning Experience in Dallas
This free daytime celebration is perfect for families who are looking for a relaxed and fun event. There is music, dancing, and food trucks culminating into a noon balloon drop. The laid-back vibe makes it ideal for younger kids.
Why It’s Great:
A fun, family-friendly event that won’t break the bank.
Details:
When: Dec. 31, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: The Learning Experience, Dallas
Cost: Free
5. Noon Year’s Eve at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
This is a fun New Year’s Eve event at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, including crafts, exhibits, and noon confetti drop. It’s a great way to teach kids about New Year’s traditions and resolutions with the interactive displays of the museum.
Why It’s Great:
The event is the perfect blend of entertainment and education, making it a classic favorite for families.
Details:
When: Dec. 31, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
Cost:
$16 for adults, $12 for kids 3-11; free for kids under 2
6. New Year’s Noon at The Shops at Highland Village
Families can gather in Denton County at The Shops at Highland Village for a fun New Year’s Noon celebration. This will include a balloon drop with prizes, face painting, a DJ dance party, games, and costumed characters.
Why It’s Great:
This free activity pairs fun things to do with a lively atmosphere, so it is suitable for families with little children.
Details:
When: Dec. 31, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Highland Village, Denton County
Cost: Free
7. Family New Year’s Eve at The HUB in Allen
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with live music, face painting, and a ball drop at 9 p.m. The HUB in Allen is hosting an early celebration featuring a Taylor Swift tribute band and plenty of activities for kids. Plus, kids eat free with an adult food purchase.
Why It’s Great:
The early ball drop makes it perfect for families who want to celebrate without staying up until midnight.
Details:
Where: When: Dec. 31; 5 p.m to 9 pm
Where: The HUB Allen
Cost: Free
8. Day 1 DFW at Irving Convention Center
Kick off the new year with a bang at Day 1 DFW, a festival benefiting Vogel Alcove, a nonprofit supporting child experiencing homelessness. The event features inflatable slides, rock climbing, a snow maze, and live performances by magicians and musicians. The party wraps up with a stunning drone show by America’s Got Talent finalist Sky Elements.
Why It’s Great:
This event offers something for everyone and supports a meaningful cause.
Details:
When: Jan. 1, noon to 7 p.m.
Where: Irving Convention Center
Cost: $15 per person, free for children 17 and under, $25 for VIP
How to Plan Your Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve in Texas?
Plan: It’s a good idea to book popular events such as Epic Waters and the Fort Worth Museum since they tend to sell out quickly.
Get There Early: Arriving early will give you a parking space and you can take in all the planned activities.
Watch Weather: Texas weather can be very unpredictable. Bring layers for outdoor events.
Pack Some Necessities: Bring snacks, water bottles, and small toys for entertainment for the little kids.
Why Family-Friendly Events Matter
Family-friendly New Year’s Eve events let parents create memories with children that they will cherish throughout their lives. The celebrations are intended to suit younger participants in such a manner that the fun experienced should be well-balanced against safety and comfort.
Conclusion
Texas offers the best array of family-friendly New Year’s Eve activities-from educational museum activities to exciting water park parties. For every family, whether wanting an early countdown or a full-day celebration, there’s an activity that suits everyone’s taste. Choose the one that fits your family’s style, ring in 2025, and have fun and laughs with your loved ones.
Happy New Year!
