Cheers to the New Year BY AMANDA CIANI
D ecember is full of fabulous family fun all month long, with one big celebration even falling on the very last day of the month. NewYear’s Eve is a terrific time to gather with friends and family to reflect on 2025 while also looking forward to 2026 with hope and optimism. Whether celebrating earlier in the day or enjoying the time together down to the very last second, make a plan to commemorate the start of a brand new year full of opportunity and memory making together. CELEBRATING EARLY Having little ones means weighing the pros and cons of letting them stay up til the NYE ball drops at midnight. Doing so could potentially throw off sleep schedules and result in grumpy kiddos for several days (which is not an ideal way to start the new
year). Consider what makes NYE so alluring in the first place—the anticipation, build-up and of course, the countdown. Good news!Young ones can experience all of the feelings of NYE excitement earlier in the day. Many establishments like libraries, trampoline parks and indoor play places throw “noon years” celebrations where kids can countdown to when the clock strikes noon! Can’t make it to a noon year’s party out and about? Consider throwing a little countdown-style party at home. Add in special touches like party hats, a special sparkling cider toast and sparklers to really set the vibe. As for the “10…9…8…” countdown, a quick search online for “Kid’s NewYear’s Countdowns” shows tons of options, many of which feature popular kid’s characters, too. Kids don’t care if
it’s kept simple, and a noon year’s style party at home is all of the fun, and none of the sleep deprivation, making it the perfect option for parents with younger kids. PARTY LIKE IT’S 2026! Some families love to be the hosts with the most, and having a NYE party can be a great way to cap a successful 2025. A little planning goes a long way; and having the most fun doesn’t have to cost the most money, either. Here are some budget-friendly tips on hosting a NYE PARTY. Set the Ambiance. Glitz and glamor is a great way to start a new year. Hit up the local dollar store and buy some inexpensive silver and gold gear like table covers, plates, napkins, balloons, streamers, etc. Kids may enjoy wearing glow bracelets and necklaces, too! Grab a
16 DECEMBER 2025 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
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