New Year’s Eve is one of the most festive nights of the year. Friends and family gather to count down the waning moments of the year, and anticipate the fun times ahead in the year to come. While adults tend to look forward to New Year’s Eve festivities more than children, there are many ways parents can ring in the New Year with their kids.
1. Toast with a mocktail.
While the adults sip on champagne at midnight, the kids can join in on the fun with a tasty mocktail. Try apple juice or white grape juice (or both!) mixed with club soda to give it that bubble!
2. Watch a fireworks show.
Check out one of your local fireworks shows while the family snuggles up together under a warm blanket. In Cape May County, Sea Isle City’s New Year’s Eve celebration will set off fireworks at 8 p.m. for the early birds, and Ocean City’s First Night celebration will set off fireworks at midnight for those who will stay up to welcome 2019.
3. Host your own “party.”
Play dress up with the kids and have them wear their best “black tie” attire. Get fancy and pick up some white gloves, pearls, bow ties and tiaras at your local party or dollar store. Add some confetti, hats, shakers, music, and snacks, and the family is ready to dance and party the night away!
4. Spend some time in the kitchen.
Invite the kids into the kitchen to whip up something special for the family. While the youngsters may not be interested in preparing the main course, they can easily get involved when baking the night’s more delectable treats like cookies and cakes.
5. Make resolutions.
New Year’s resolutions are a big part of the holiday. Have each family member write down his or her goals for the upcoming year, and read them out loud when the clock strikes midnight. Hang them on the fridge for motivation in 2019.
6. Get a New Year’s piñata.
Many people love to watch the ball drop from Time’s Square in New York City on New Year’s Eve. Celebrants can bring a taste of this beloved tradition into their own homes come New Year’s Eve by purchasing a piñata, filling it with confetti and treats and letting the kids take turns breaking the piñata as midnight hits.
7. Attend a local New Year’s Eve celebration.
Sea Isle City and Ocean City host exciting family-friendly events on New Year’s Eve. Both celebrations will feature fun activities, entertainment, food and refreshments, and much, much more! Check out the DoTheShore section or visit DoTheShore.com for more information on these events.