New Year’s Eve is always a night full of glitz, glamour, nostalgia, and the hope of new beginnings. It also usually includes a very late night and champagne — fun for adults but not always the most family-friendly of celebrations for kids. But parents everywhere know that while babysitters offer much-needed adult-only time, there’s always a pang that comes with not including them in the festivities at all. So, whether you opt for a traditional New Year’s party with a kid-friendly spin or attend a “Noon” Year’s Eve party with the kiddos before you head out to your own adult celebration in the evening, here are the best New Year’s Parties for kids in Kansas City.
Best New Year’s Parties for Kids in Kansas City
Zoo Year’s Eve
When: Sunday, December 31, 2023 — 10 AM – 12 PM
Where: 6800 Zoo Dr, Kansas City, MO 64132
What to expect: Ring in the noon year with the coolest animals in the city! This countdown party will include themed animal exhibits and allow guests to watch the Kansas City Zoo’s famous penguin march at 11 AM. Conveniently scheduled at midday, you and your family can have fun without staying up well past bedtime.
Admission: Free with the cost of your zoo ticket or membership.
KC Zoo’s New Year’s Eve hours are 9 AM – 2 PM (Closed on New Year’s Day)
Hyvee’s Kids New Year’s Eve Eve Balloon Drop
When: Saturday, December 30, 2023 — 10 AM
Where: 7117 N Prospect Ave., Gladstone, MO, United States, Missouri 64119
What to expect: This event is for kids 12 and under. With 1,000 balloons filled with prizes, including a Barbie Dream House, Hot Wheels Bike, KIDSFIT merch, and more, this is a party you won’t want your kiddos to miss! Plus, from 7 AM – 10 AM, there will be a breakfast buffet, and with every adult meal purchased, you will receive a FREE kid’s buffet.
Admission: FREE
Science City’s Noon Year’s Eve Party
When: Sunday, December 31, 2023 — 10 AM – 6:30 PM
Where: Union Station – 30 W Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108
What to expect: Party-goers can make their own disco balls, word-of-the-year friendship bracelets, and firework twirler wands. Track New Year’s celebrations worldwide, enjoy a laser show, and participate in a New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop featuring thousands of balloons!
Admission: Free with the cost of your $16 Science City ticket or a membership. (If you’re purchasing tickets, select December 31 at checkout.)
Pajama Party at Lenexa Public Market
When: December 31, 2023 — 10 AM – 2 PM
Where: 8750 Penrose Ln., Lenexa, KS 66219
What to expect: Countdown to “noon” year, giveaways, a time capsule activity, and pop-up restaurants, board games provided by Cardboard Corner and Tabletop & Hobby; this Pajama Party is a great way to get your kids in on the fun of a fresh New Year without the cranky attitudes that come with early morning bedtimes.
Admission: FREE
Bounce into the New Year with Urban Air
When: December 31, 2023 — 11 AM – 6 PM
Where: 8554 Maurer Rd, Lenexa, KS 66219
What to expect: A “Noon” Year-Eve countdown with a balloon drop and lots of jumping! Arrive at 11 AM sharp to check in and have your waiver filled out in time to find a good spot under the balloons in time for the countdown.
Admission: Regular-priced tickets (cost varies from 22.99 – 33.99 depending on ticket package).
Skate City’s New Year’s Eve Bash
When: December 31, 2023 — 8 PM – 12:30 AM
Where:
Two locations:
Shawnee – 9800 W 62nd Terrace, Merriam, KS 66203
Overland Park – 10440 Mastin St, Overland Park, KS 66212
What to expect: A great option for families who don’t mind staying up to ring in the New Year but still want to do it in kid-friendly style. There will be free food, cash prizes, trivia, games, and, of course, lots of rollerskating!
Admission: $12, Skate rental $3
