Pop open the sparkling cider and break out the silly string, 2021 is almost here, and we can’t think of a better reason to celebrate! That’s why we’ve scoped out six kid-approved New Year’s Eve events that maximize the fun earlier in the day. Read on to get this party started.

Rockin’ Rockfish Noon Year’s Eve
If you’re in search of an end of 2020 celebration that really rocks, look no further than the Seattle Aquarium's Rockin' Rockfish Noon Year's Eve. With Music from Mikey the Rad Scientist, a dance party and lots of fun facts about the animals families will find at the aquarium, this celebration is the epitome of edutainment. So gather your little animal lovers and get ready to countdown to the noon year at this virtual party. Reserve your spot online.
Time: Dec. 31, 2020 at 11:30 a.m.
Cost: Free
Event details

Harry Potter Yule Ball
The King County Library System has a full day of New Year’s events planned for Harry Potter lovers of all ages, starting with two morning adventures your kids won’t want to miss. Whip out your wands and make them even more magical at Olivander’s Wand Decorating class. Follow it up with a virtual Escape from Durmstrang game that’ll put your Harry Potter knowledge and your wits to the test. After dinner, tune in to watch a livestreamed Tonks & the Aurors concert, from 6-7 p.m., followed by a lively discussion that’s all about the Prisoner of Azkaban. Be sure to register soon for these festive events!
Time: Dec. 31, 2020, between 11 a.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

New Year Kid's Celebration
2021 is almost here and the Kirkland Parks and Community Services is excited to celebrate with you and your kids! They're cooking up fun in the form of tasty treats, a New Year story and creative crafts that'll get everyone involved in the party. You'll need a few items to participate in each activity to its fullest extent so have check your fridge for apple cider and ginger ale, and see if your cupboards are stocked with pretzel rods, chocolate chips and sprinkles. Then sift through your craft bins and party supplies to find balloons, a paper towel tube, a jar and some ribbons. Crayons and other art supplies will make things pretty. It's time to celebrate!
Time: Dec. 31, 2020 at noon
Cost: Free
Event details

DJ Squirm-a-Lot’s New Year’s Eve Bash
Wanna party with your favorite Story Pirates DJ? Then log on to hang with DJ Squirm-a-lot and pals Peter, Meghan, Rachel, Nimene and Eric at this virtual celebration. Work on the street is DJ Squirm-a-Lot’s old nemesis, Yorma the ice dragon, is trying to spoil the fun with her icy dragon magic. Will the Story Pirates be able to foil her plans? This thrilling caper unfolds as kids play games, sing songs and make snacks for Peter before DJ Squirm-a-Lot finally leads the kids in a celebration to close out the year.
Time: Dec. 31, 2020 at noon
Cost: $15
Event details

Happy New Year, Charlie Brown
Kids from around the country can join the Schulz Museum for their annual New Year’s Eve festivities. It’s a way to celebrate together (while staying apart) with Peanuts-themed crafts, special appearances by Snoopy and Woodstock and a countdown to the Museum’s annual up-down balloon drop at noon.
Time: Dec. 31, 2020 from 11 a.m.-noon
Cost: $15
Event details

New Year’s Eve at the Needle
No gathering for fireworks this year, but New Year’s at the Needle is still a-go with an innovative new light show experience. Parents (and kiddos who make it this far) will marvel at striking visuals and thrilling digital effects projected on the Needle from the comfort of your couch as you watch the celebration on TV or stream it online. You can expect musical performances, celebrity cameos and a nod to Seattle’s resilience in 2020 too. Let’s welcome 2021 in true Seattle style!
Times: Dec. 31, 2020 at 11:35 p.m.
Cost: Free
Event details
—Allison Sutcliffe, Kristina Moy & Katie Kavulla
feature image: iStock
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