The countdown is near, so bring your good cheer: 2022 will be an incredible year! After spending most of 2021 balancing safety with socialization, we are thrilled to be able to celebrate in person again with friends and family. There are so many ways to ring in the New Year whether you plan to gather, or stay home. Check the list below for ideas on maximizing your family’s fun this upcoming New Year’s Eve.
This article is sponsored by DuPage Children’s Museum, who is hosting their popular Bubble Bash this year!
Bubble Bash (Naperville)
Bubble Bash – A Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve
Friday, December 31, 2021 | 9:00am – 1:00pm
Join DuPage Children’s Museum for a New Year’s celebration! Spend time together creating lasting memories, taking part in special activities, grooving to good music, exploring the Museum’s hands-on exhibits, and counting down with confetti, bubbles, and more. This annual year-end celebration, now in its 20th year, has become a holiday tradition.
Enjoy live musical performances by Little Miss Ann at 10:30am or Noon. Countdown the new year with confetti, bubbles, party rocket launch, or quiet fun at 11am or 12:30 pm.
Take advantage of Early Bird Savings through Monday, December 13. Click here to learn more and get your tickets!
New Year’s Eve Events to Ring in 2022 with Kids
In-Person Events
Teenie Weenie New Year’s Eve Ball at the Fountain View Recreation Center (Carol Stream)
December 30, 2021 | 10:00am – 12:30pm
Kids 8 and under can party hearty with a DJ, bounce house and more, including a balloon drop at noon! Registration closes on December 22nd.
Bubble Bash: A Kid-Friendly New Year’s Eve at the DuPage Children’s Musuem (Naperville)
December 31, 2021 | 9:00am – 1:00pm
Enjoy all that the museum has to offer, in this 20th annual Bubble Bash NYE party. Activities include bubble science displays, musical performances, making wearable art, and two countdowns at 10:30am and 12:30pm. Tickets required.
Family New Year’s Eve Party at the Recreation Center Gym (Warrenville)
December 31, 2021 | 10:30am – 12:30pm
The whole family is invited to celebrate the New Year in style at this event, featuring party favors, snack, music and more.
Noon Years Eve (Lemont)
December 31, 2021 | 11:00am – 1:00pm
The Core will have a DJ, balloon drop, pizza, and activities.
Family Concert at the Library (Glen Ellyn)
December 31, 11:15am – 12:00pm
The Glen Ellyn Library will host musician Jim Gill for a family friendly concert event, so head on over to get the wiggles out and share some smiles. Registration required.
Wild New Year’s Eve at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center (St. Charles)
December 31, 11:30am – 12:30pm and 3:00 – 4:00pm
Animal lovers will enjoy this “wild” party with critter visits and a take-home treat. All ages welcome, 1 and under are free.
Glow In The Dark Party at the CRC Gym (Roselle)
December 31, 1:00 – 3:00pm
Bring the entire family for a round of glow-in-the-dark mini golf, or make an ice cream sundae to enjoy before you get back on the dance floor and groove to the DJ. Registration closes December 28.
New Year’s Eve Family Party (Lombard, Burbank, Joliet)
December 31, 2021 | 8:00pm – 12:00am
Enchanted Castle and Haunted Trails will be having a buffet and game play at their entertainment centers.
Skating in the Park and Fireworks (Rosemont)
December 31, 2021 | 11:00am – 12:00am
Parkway Bank Park has an outdoor Chicago Wolves ice rink and will be having fireworks at midnight to ring in 2022.
Blue Man Group (Chicago)
December 31, 2021 | 4pm, 7pm, and 10pm
New Year’s Eve at Fox Bowl (Wheaton)
December 31, 2021 | lane reservations open
Reserve a lane for an afternoon, evening, or late night party with unlimited bowling, party favors, food, and more. Rates can be found on their website.
Wonder Works Children’s Museum will be having a Noon Year’s Eve event, but no information is available online at this time.
Ideas for Celebrating at Home
Whether you want to be super safe or simply party in your pajamas, here are some ideas for celebrating at home this year.
- Take a “trip” to another country and celebrate their midnight! Adjust a clock to that time zone, and do some research about that country’s particular NYE tradition (if they have one). Bonus points if you have a native dish prepared!
- Look backward before you move forwards: celebrate special moments and memorable achievements from 2021. Think about what 2021 brought to your family’s life and look at throwback pictures. You could even make a time capsule for a year to come!
- Game night is always a winner in my family. This year, we are doing a New Year’s Board Game Tournament; everyone goes into the new year feeling like a champion. Decorate silly trophies or medals, award one another with prizes — or just pick each person’s favorite game and play it. Don’t forget to toast the winner with a favorite bubbly beverage!
- Elementary-aged kids and older might enjoy creating a “bucket list” of things to do in the new year. It’s always nice to have exciting ideas and activities to look forward to — especially when everyone gets to contribute.
- Get outside for some fresh air. Check out our favorite outdoor spaces (we suggest you call to confirm holiday hours).
Taking the holidays one day or week at a time? No need to stress — our west suburban kid-friendly events calendar is updated all the time and ready to help!
5 Comments. Leave new
Annie…thanks for the wonderful website. We all appreciate the hard work you do to help make our families memories too!
Great website. Super helpful
Thanks Holly! I’m glad you find the site helpful.
Thanks a lot for sharing all this information. I’m finding fun events for our little one from here. Happy New Year ????.
You’re welcome! Happy New Year to you too. I’m glad you find the site so helpful. :)