LA's New Year’s Eve Guide 2025 for Families: Kid-Friendly Events, Fireworks & More

Get slimey on New Year's Eve! Photo by Elaina Bellis courtesy of the Sloomoo Institute
Get slimey on New Year's Eve! Photo by Elaina Bellis courtesy of the Sloomoo Institute
12/22/24 - By Kylie Williams

It’s almost New Year’s Eve—and Los Angeles has loads of celebrations for kids. Ring in 2026 with a balloon drop (at noon or midnight, depending on your household bedtime!), giggling through a family-friendly comedy show, catching some fireworks, or even roller skating your way into the new year. There are also plenty of innovative ways to party at home as a family or learn some New Year's Eve celebrations from around the world.

Find more events and activities on our Los Angeles event calendar and check out the best activities of the weekend in LA

That's a wrap for 2025! Happy New Year from all of us at Mommy Poppins. Thank you, reader, for making it such a great one. We're looking forward to all the fun coming our way in 2026. 

What Are the Best Things to Do With Kids on New Year's Eve in Los Angeles?

LA knows how to ring in the New Year with all the pizzaz and celebration that a big city can offer. From Gloria Molina Grand Park's New Year's Eve celebration (which is free, and even televised as the official California countdown), to adorable "Noon Year's Eve" parties for kids at the Southern California Children's Museum and the MOXI in Santa Barbara, there are plenty of fun New Year's Eve events for families in Southern California. Not everyone wants to keep the kids up until midnight (or deal with the fall-out the day after), so we've got a list that includes daytime activities, outdoor activities, and more. 

At-Home New Year's Eve Ideas for Families That Don't Want to Go Out

Want to kick it at home for the New Year's Eve countdown? Totally cool- and we can still help you plan a chill and memorable night. Use our list of the best holiday movies for families to help you pick a great flick. If you're feeling up for a project, let the kiddos make some slime, or break out a board game. We even have a whole article on the best ways to celebrate New Year's Eve at home as a family. So stay in, stay cozy, and ring in the New Year in the comfort of your own home. 

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About the Author

Kylie Williams
Kylie Williams is a mom of four who loves exploring Los Angeles with her kids and reporting back about the exciting events, attractions, and hidden gems she discovers. When she's not schlepping the kids around the city, she's probably at the gym, reading a book, or putting together snack bags for one of the kids' sports teams. If you know of a place she should check out, drop a line at Kylie@MommyPoppins.com.