Sure there will be fireworks across the metro area on New Year’s Eve, and grown-ups can stay up late counting down to midnight, but families will also find some kid-centric ways to celebrate the hours leading up to 2026 on Wednesday, December 31. Here are several we found that are sure to delight the kiddos. Spots fill for some of these events quickly, so you should register soon if one is of interest. If you know of any we have missed, please email laura@milehighonthecheap.com.
Source: Depositphotos
Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus Noon Year’s Eve
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
2121 Children’s Museum Dr., Denver, 303-433-7444
Features a shiny Times Square-like ball which will drop on the hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This year’s celebrations will take place in their winter experience, SNOW DAYS!
Prepare for a celebration unlike any other year with sock skating, sledding on real snow, music, themed crafts, sipping hot cocoa by a toasty fire and fun surprises!
Tickets must be purchased at the Museum the day of the event, first-come, first-served.
Cost is $19.75 for ages 2 to 59 and $17.75 for seniors (60+) and those age 1. Members get in for free. 2025
Noon Year’s Eve at Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus
Denver Museum of Nature and Science Cosmic Countdown
9:30 a.m.
2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver
This event is perfect for young explorers who want to ring in the New Year without staying up until midnight.
Come see objects from outer space, blast off in mini rockets and create your own space jewelry, among many more space-themed activities.
As we count down to our celestial celebration, enjoy live demonstrations that are truly out of this world!
Be sure to join us at your ticket time for our big New Year countdown and we invite you to come early and stay after to explore the Museum.
This event does not require purchase of a General Admission ticket.
Admission is $15 for youth (3 to 18), $20 for adults. Limited space so make reservations now! 2025
DPD 3 Noon Year’s Eve Party
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
McDonald’s at 6355 E. Evans Ave., Denver
FREE
Ring in the New Year early with a fun-filled celebration designed just for kids. Complete a scavenger hunt to earn a free Happy Meal and enjoy the countdown to noon with a festive balloon drop. Adults must remain with children for the entire event. Sponsored by Denver Police Department Division 3.
The Shops at Northfield
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
8340 Northfield Blvd., Denver.
FREE
Perfect for families, this fun-filled event in The Plaza (Main Street and 47th Ave.) offers exciting activities for all ages. Enjoy a dazzling balloon drop, fun activities, live entertainment, face painting, and more. 2025
Urban Air Adventure Park Aurora
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
15400 E. Briarwood Circle, Aurora
New Year’s Eve at Noon Party! Unlimited play, balloon drop, giveaways, noisemakers and more. Admission is $25.99 for a Ultimate Pass (includes socks, noise maker and balloon drop event), with $5 upgrade to Platinum.
Buy tickets here starting Dec. 17.
Urban Air Adventure Park Centennial
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
8181 S. Quebec St., Centennial
New Year’s Eve at Noon Party! Unlimited play, giveaways, noisemakers and more. Admission is $25.99 for an Ultimate Pass, with $5 upgrade to Platinum.
Buy tickets here starting Dec. 17.
Urban Air Adventure Park Denver
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
9550 E. 40th Ave., Denver
New Year’s Eve at Noon Party! Unlimited play, giveaways, noisemakers and more. Admission is $25.99 for a Ultimate Pass, with $5 upgrade to Platinum.
Buy tickets here starting Dec. 17.
Urban Air Adventure Park Westminster
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
7025 W. 88th Ave., Westminster
New Year’s Eve at Noon Party! Unlimited play, drop, giveaways, noisemakers and more. Admission is $25.99 for a Ultimate Pass (includes free ICEE, giveaway tickets, punch balloon), with $5 upgrade to Platinum.
Buy tickets here starting Dec. 17.
WOW! Children’s Museum
110 N. Harrison Ave., Lafayette, 303-604-2424
Ring in the New Year a few hours early in Lafayette. Enjoy noisemaker crafts, face painting, balloon animals, dance party, playtime in the Museum, refreshments, and a special countdown celebration.
Party #1 is from 10 a.m. to noon and and Party #2 is from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission is $13 per child; $10 per WOW! member child; and $7 per adult. Advance ticket purchase required.
Buy tickets for 10 a.m. to noon here.
Buy tickets for 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. here. 2025
Various Locations
CO