The holiday season is a time for family, celebration, and creating unforgettable memories. When it comes to ringing in the New Year, some cities in the U.S. truly go above and beyond with their family-friendly festivals. These cities offer a magical combination of fun, excitement, and cultural experiences that both children and adults will love.
Whether you’re planning a trip to a big city or searching for the perfect New Year’s destination for your family, the U.S. has plenty of options. Here are three of the biggest and best family-friendly festivals to visit during New Year’s.
New York City – Times Square New Year’s Eve Celebration
Nothing says New Year’s Eve quite like the iconic ball drop in Times Square. While many aspects of the event are remarkable, the ball itself is truly mind-blowing! Measuring 12 feet in diameter and weighing an astonishing 11,875 pounds, the ball is truly a sight to behold. It’s about two to three times heavier than the average U.S. car, according to the 2022 EPA report.
While the crowds can be overwhelming, New York City offers a variety of family-friendly options for celebration. From fireworks to special viewing areas and events designed for all ages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What Makes It Special?
The streets of Manhattan are transformed into a world-class celebration, with live performances from top musicians, confetti showers, and the famous countdown. Families can enjoy the atmosphere from a safe distance at some of the nearby family-friendly venues. Some hotels, restaurants, and cruises offer excellent views of the ball drop and fireworks without the chaos of the crowd.
Family-Friendly Activities
Consider starting your New Year’s Eve celebration earlier in the day by exploring Central Park’s holiday lights or taking in a family-friendly Broadway show. Many families love attending the Central Park Winter Jam, typically held in early January. This event features a variety of fun winter sports, including snowshoeing and ice skating, making it enjoyable for all ages.
What is the history behind the Times Square Ball Drop?
The Times Square Ball Drop began in 1907 to celebrate the opening of the new year. The first ball was made of iron and wood and adorned with 100 electric bulbs. Over the years, the event has evolved, with the current crystal ball introduced in 2000 featuring 2,688 Waterford crystals.
Chicago – New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Navy Pier
If you’re looking for a vibrant, family-friendly way to celebrate New Year’s, Chicago is an ideal destination. The city offers an impressive array of events during the holiday season. However, the standout celebration for families is the New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Navy Pier.
Why Navy Pier?
Navy Pier, one of Chicago’s top attractions, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. With its lakeside location, the pier provides a scenic backdrop for family outings, offering plenty of activities for people of all ages. Navy Pier offers a range of attractions, from indoor options like the Chicago Children’s Museum and the iconic Centennial Wheel to outdoor ice skating. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan, making it a perfect destination for families.
The Fireworks Show
At midnight, the Navy Pier features a spectacular fireworks show over Lake Michigan, visible from the pier and nearby waterfront locations. The fireworks light up the Chicago skyline, providing an enchanting and family-friendly way to welcome the new year.
Last year, this spectacular display featured an astonishing 100,000 pyrotechnics, lighting up the night sky. Lasting about 10 minutes, as reported by CBS News, it truly showcased the grandeur of the celebration.
Tip for Families
Whichever city you choose for New Year’s, walking the streets enhances your experience and lets you soak in the festive atmosphere. However, if you need to cover longer distances, opting for a comfortable ride is essential.
A spacious vehicle like a Sprinter is ideal during this busy season, when traffic can stand still for hours, leading to frustration and anxiety. With a Sprinter van, your family can travel together comfortably, providing ample space for everyone, including elderly parents or grandparents.
Eminent Limo notes that these vans offer easy access and generous legroom, ensuring that all passengers can enjoy the journey without feeling cramped. Plus, with amenities like climate control and entertainment options, traveling in a bustling city becomes both enjoyable and stress-free.
So, if you’re planning a trip, opt for a Sprinter van rental in Chicago, New York, or any other city for a comfortable ride.
What is the Polar Bear Plunge?
The Polar Bear Plunge is an annual event where participants brave the frigid waters of Lake Michigan, typically held on New Year’s Day. It’s a fun and invigorating way to kick off the new year while raising funds for various charities.
Nashville: New Year’s Eve in Music City
Nashville’s New Year’s Eve celebration, known as “Bash on Broadway,” transforms the city into a lively hub filled with music, food, and entertainment. Renowned for its vibrant music scene, Nashville offers a unique way to ring in the New Year.
According to WKRN News 2, the 2023 Nashville’s Big Bash attracted an estimated crowd of 215,000. This number exceeded the previous year’s attendance of around 210,000. This growing enthusiasm highlights the event’s popularity and the city’s ability to create unforgettable experiences for revelers.
What Makes it Special?
Nashville’s New Year’s Eve celebration is truly special, blending the city’s rich musical heritage with a vibrant community spirit. This year, the festivities will take on an unprecedented local-to-national flavor. The event will be headlined by two of the biggest names in country music: Chattanooga native Kane Brown and Grammy-nominated Nashville native Jelly Roll.
Their performances will showcase the best of Nashville’s talent and resonate with fans from across the country. This creates a shared experience that elevates the celebration to a whole new level. The blend of live music, local culture, and an electric atmosphere makes this New Year’s Eve unforgettable for families and fans.
What are the main attractions at Bash on Broadway?
Key attractions include live performances from renowned artists spanning various genres, creating an unforgettable musical experience. The midnight countdown is a highly anticipated moment that culminates in a dazzling crystal ball drop. This exciting event is followed by an impressive fireworks show that lights up the Nashville skyline.
Overall, celebrating New Year’s Eve at these iconic city festivals offers a perfect blend of fun, culture, and unforgettable moments for your family. Each city brings its own charm and atmosphere, creating lasting memories for both kids and adults as you welcome the new year together. No matter where you celebrate, these family-friendly events ensure you start the new year with joy, excitement, and the warmth of loved ones.