Ring in the New Year with the whole family by celebrating early, locally, and stress-free. The Phoenix Valley offers plenty of kid-friendly New Year’s Eve events designed for younger children — complete with daytime countdowns, crafts, and festive fun. Here’s a roundup of some of the best options for families.

🎉 Noon Year’s Eve in Downtown Mesa

Location: Downtown Mesa
Cost: Free

This popular annual event lets kids celebrate the New Year without staying up late. Families can enjoy live entertainment, games, activities, and a balloon drop at noon. It’s lively, festive, and perfect for toddlers through elementary-age kids.

Noon Years Eve Celebration in Mesa

🧾 Happy Noon Year at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix

Location: Downtown Phoenix
Cost: Approx. $27 non-members / $10 members (kids under 1 free)

The Children’s Museum hosts one of the Valley’s most beloved New Year celebrations. Expect hands-on crafts, music, dancing, and a kid-friendly countdown with a balloon drop and sparkling cider toast — all wrapped up by early afternoon.

Noon Years Eve Celebration at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix

📚 Noon Year Celebrations at Local Libraries

Location: Select Mesa & Phoenix library branches
Cost: Free

Many local libraries host Noon Year parties with simple crafts, stories, and noise-making fun. These low-key events are ideal for families looking for a relaxed and budget-friendly way to celebrate.

đŸŒ” Desert Botanical Garden 

Location: Papago Park
Cost: Varies by date and membership

For a quieter celebration, stroll through the Desert Botanical Garden’s glowing luminarias. While not a traditional countdown event, it’s a beautiful way to enjoy the season with kids before heading home early.

🎈 New Year’s Eve Fun at Home

If staying in sounds best, create your own celebration with a noon or early-evening countdown, DIY party hats, a balloon drop, and kid-chosen snacks. Add a mini dance party, a photo booth with props, or a “favorite moments of the year” family activity to make the night extra special.

However you celebrate, the Phoenix Valley makes it easy for families to welcome the New Year together — smiles, confetti, and bedtime intact. 🎆