The Shops at Columbus Circle - 5:00 PM Pick
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New Year's Eve Fireworks, Ball Drops, and Celebrations for Kids in NYC
Discover family-friendly events, fireworks, early countdowns, and fun ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2025–2026 in New York City with kids of all ages.
New Year's Eve is just around the corner, and there are lots of ways to ring in 2026 in New York City with kids, even if staying up late is NOT on your family's agenda. We've rounded up the city's best family-friendly New Year's Eve celebrations, including Times Square's legendary ball drop. Our family-friendly picks include a drone show over Prospect Park and a special Big Apple Circus performance. However you welcome the new year, we hope it's a blast.
You can find even more seasonal fun in our Holiday Guide for NYC Families, and be sure to check out our post on 38 fun things to do over Christmas vacation.
As always, if an event piques your interest, click through to our listing for all the details, including addresses and times. And keep in mind: Really cool things to do with kids often book up quickly, so register or buy your tickets ASAP.
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What Are the Best Things To Do with Kids on New Year’s Eve in NYC?
Not every family wants midnight fireworks — some events are perfect for earlier celebrations, outdoor fun, or day trips.
At-Home New Year’s Eve Ideas If You Don’t Want to Go Out
national NYE pieces and our best movies list for a family movie night at home
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Places featured in this article:
Highlawn Library
Children's Museum of Manhattan
Damrosch Park
Sloomoo Institute
Three's Brewing
Prospect Park (at Grand Army Plaza)
Times Square
