13 Fun Family Activities To Ring In The New Year

The countdown to New Year's Eve is in full swing, and what better way to celebrate than with some fun family activities? Whether you prefer to stay in and cozy up with hot cocoa or hit the town for some festive fireworks, we've got you covered with 13 exciting ways to ring in the New Year with your loved ones. From DIY crafts to outdoor adventures, these activities are sure to bring joy and create lasting memories for years to come. So grab your party hats and get ready for a fun-filled New Year's Eve with your family!

Have a family game night at home

New Year’s Eve is a time of reflection, renewal, and celebration. For families, it is a wonderful opportunity to spend precious time together and make new memories. While there is much to do outside the home, it can be nice to ring in the new year privately, in the cozy comfort of your home. A family game night can be the perfect way to do so. Here are some ideas for family things to do for New Year’s Eve.

Board Games

Board games are a great way to bring family together and create new memories. Choose a few games that everyone can enjoy such as Monopoly, Scrabble, or Clue. Take turns to play and see who can win the ultimate prize.

Card Games

Card games can be an excellent source of entertainment for the whole family. Play classic card games like Crazy Eights, Go Fish or Uno. For those who prefer something a bit more challenging, try Spades, Hearts, or Rummy.

Video Games

If your family is into video games, spend some time playing together. Whether it's playing Mario Kart or Just Dance, the whole family can have a fun and interactive experience.

Charades

Charades is a classic party game that is perfect for a family game night. Choose a theme, such as movies, songs, or TV shows and take turns guessing what everyone is acting out.

Pictionary

Another classic game that can provide hours of entertainment is Pictionary. Split up into teams and take turns drawing and guessing what each other's drawings mean.

While it's nice to indulge in some sweet treats and champagne on New Year's Eve, a family game night can be the perfect way to ring in the new year. Bring your family together with laughter, great food, and of course, some friendly competition. So gather around the living room, turn off the TV, and let the games begin!

Make homemade pizzas and watch a movie

New Year's Eve is a time to celebrate with loved ones and reflect on the year that has passed. If you're looking for a fun and low-key way to ring in the New Year with your family, why not make homemade pizzas and watch a movie together?

Making your own pizzas is a great way to get everyone involved and have some fun in the kitchen. Start by setting out a variety of toppings, such as cheese, pepperoni, vegetables, and sauces. Then, let each member of the family choose their favorite toppings and make their own personal pizza. You can use pre-made pizza crusts or even make your own dough from scratch!

While the pizzas are cooking in the oven, it's the perfect time to choose a movie to watch. Let your kids pick out a family-friendly movie that everyone can enjoy together. Whether it's a classic like "Home Alone" or a newer release like "The Grinch," there are plenty of options to choose from.

Once the pizzas are done cooking and the movie is ready to go, it's time to settle in for a cozy night with the family. Take turns sharing your favorite memories from the past year or talking about your hopes and goals for the year ahead. Then, as the clock strikes midnight, toast to the New Year with some sparkling apple cider or hot cocoa.

Making homemade pizzas and watching a movie is a fun and easy way to spend New Year's Eve with your family. It's a great way to bond over a shared activity and create lasting memories together. So gather your loved ones, fire up the oven, and get ready for a night of family fun!

Go ice skating at a local rink

New Year's Eve is all about spending time with family and friends, reflecting on the past year and looking forward to the new one ahead. If you're looking for a fun and active way to ring in the new year with your loved ones, why not consider going ice skating at a local rink?

Ice skating is a classic winter activity that the whole family can enjoy. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, skating is a great way to get some exercise, improve your balance, and have a blast with your family. Here are a few tips for planning a fun and safe ice skating outing on New Year's Eve.

First, look for a local ice skating rink in your area. Many rinks offer special events and activities on New Year's Eve, so be sure to check their website or social media pages for more information. You can also give them a call to find out about their hours, pricing, and any special rules or regulations they may have in place.

Next, make sure that everyone in your family has the proper gear for skating. You'll need a pair of ice skates that fit well, warm clothing that allows for easy movement, and a helmet if you're skating with young children. Many rinks also offer skate rentals for a fee, so be sure to inquire about that option if you don't have your own skates.

Once you arrive at the rink, take some time to warm up and stretch before hitting the ice. Skating can be a strenuous activity, so it's important to get your muscles ready beforehand. If you're new to skating, consider taking a lesson or two from a professional instructor. This can help you learn proper technique and improve your skills more quickly.

Finally, don't forget to take breaks and stay hydrated throughout your skating session. New Year's Eve can be a long night, and it's important to pace yourself and stay energized. You can bring snacks and water bottles with you to the rink, or take a break and warm up with a hot drink or snack from the rink's concession stand.

Ice skating is a fun and festive way to celebrate New Year's Eve with your family. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a memorable and safe outing on the ice. So grab your skates and hit the rink for a fun-filled night of skating, laughter, and family bonding. Happy New Year!

Have a bonfire and roast marshmallows

Planning a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration can be a struggle, especially if you have little ones. However, adding a bonfire to your plans can make the night more festive, more comfortable, and more memorable! Here's how to make the most out of your New Year's Eve bonfire.

Firstly, you'll want to ensure that you have a safe site to build your bonfire. Choose an open area, away from buildings, trees, and other flammable objects. If you plan to set up the fire in your backyard, ensure that it is legal in your area to do so and that you have all the necessary permits. It is also important to have a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of emergency.

Now that you have a suitable location, you can start gathering wood for the fire. You can either purchase firewood, or collect it from your surroundings - just be sure to gather dry wood. Large logs and kindling are ideal for building a bonfire; ensure that you have enough wood to keep the fire going until midnight.

While you're planning your bonfire, don't forget to add a few fun things to roast over the fire. Marshmallows are a classic choice, but you can also roast hotdogs, sausages, and even vegetables like corn or sweet potatoes. Additionally, you can prepare some hot cocoa or tea to sip on, which will help to keep everyone warm during the chilly night.

Finally, be sure to consider some safety tips before starting the fire. For example, you should never use gasoline or other flammables to start the fire. Likewise, keep an eye on the children and ensure that they are not playing too close to the fire. Also, make sure to snuff the fire completely before heading to bed.

In conclusion, having a bonfire on New Year's Eve is an excellent way to bring family and friends together to ring in the new year. By following these safety tips and guidelines, you can create a fun, safe, and memorable experience that everyone will enjoy. So grab some wood, some snacks, and countdown to midnight around the fire!

Go bowling at a nearby alley

As the year comes to a close, it is time to start planning your New Year's Eve celebration. If you are looking for a fun and family-friendly activity, why not try going bowling at a nearby alley?

Bowling is a great way to bring everyone together for a night of laughs and friendly competition. Whether you are a seasoned bowler or a newcomer to the sport, there is something for everyone at the bowling alley.

To start your New Year's Eve celebration, head to your local bowling alley with your family and friends. Many bowling alleys offer special deals and discounts on New Year's Eve, which can help you save money while having fun.

Once you are at the alley, select your balls and shoes and get ready to bowl. Encourage everyone to get involved and enjoy the game. You can even make it more interesting by challenging each other to see who can get the highest score.

As the night wears on, take a break from bowling and enjoy some delicious snacks from the alley's snack bar. Many bowling alleys offer treats such as burgers, hot dogs, fries, and even pizza. You can also grab some drinks and toast to the new year together.

When the clock strikes midnight, celebrate with a cheer and hug each other. You can also watch the ball drop on the television screens or have your own countdown to welcome the new year.

In conclusion, going bowling at a nearby alley is a fun and memorable way to celebrate New Year's Eve with your family. It offers something for everyone and encourages you to bond and have a great time together. So, gather your loved ones and head to the bowling alley for a fantastic night out. Happy New Year!

Build a snowman or have a snowball fight if it's snowing outside

As the year comes to an end and a new year approaches, families are looking for fun and memorable things to do for New Year's Eve. One of the most exciting ways to celebrate the holiday is by building a snowman or having a snowball fight, especially if it's snowing outside.

Building a snowman allows families to use their creativity and imagination. Children and adults can work together to gather snowballs of different sizes, stack them on top of each other, and decorate the snowman with accessories such as a hat, scarf, and carrot nose. The whole family can get involved in the process, providing an opportunity for bonding and teamwork.

Having a snowball fight is another great way to enjoy the snow with family and friends. It's an excellent way to get some exercise and burn off the extra holiday calories. To make it more exciting, it can be done in teams or individually, and family members can set rules to make the game more challenging and fun. Snowball fights are perfect for people of all ages, and it's a great way to bring out the inner child in everyone.

Before going out for a snowman building or snowball fighting activity, it's important to ensure safety. First, make sure everyone is dressed appropriately and warmly. Layers of clothing, hats, gloves, and boots are essential for staying warm in the snow. Second, check the weather forecast and avoid going outside if there's a storm or extremely cold temperatures.

Overall, building a snowman or having a snowball fight is a classic and fun activity to do with family and friends on New Year's Eve. It's a great way to bond and create lasting memories, especially for families that live in areas with snowy winters. So, grab your family and friends, and head outside for some snowy fun!

Do a puzzle as a family

As the year comes to a close, families often search for fun and meaningful ways to spend New Year’s Eve together. If you are looking for a relaxing yet engaging activity to do with your loved ones, consider completing a puzzle as a family. Puzzles can be a fun way to bond, and they provide an opportunity to take a break from screens while challenging your cognitive abilities. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your puzzle experience on New Year's Eve:

• Choose the Right Puzzle: When selecting a puzzle, consider the interests and skills of your family members. If you have a family member who loves animals, choose a puzzle that features their favorite creatures. If your kids are younger, opt for a 100 or 200-piece puzzle, whereas if they are older, challenge them with a 500-piece puzzle.
• Set Up a Puzzle Station: Prep a cozy corner with ample light and comfortable seating for your family to work on the puzzle together. This creates a designated space for everyone to focus and minimizes the chance of the puzzle being disturbed.
• Turn Off the Screens: Turn off the television and put away your phones. This way, everyone can give their full attention to the puzzle and each other. Plus, this creates a screen-free activity that everyone can enjoy!
• Get Cozy: Encourage your family to wear comfortable clothes, make some hot cocoa, and snuggle under a cozy blanket while they work on the puzzle together. The warmth and comfort will make the experience more enjoyable and relaxing.
• Work Together: Work as a team to complete the puzzle. Assign different sections of the puzzle to each family member and take turns helping each other out. This way, everyone feels included, and the puzzle can be completed much quicker.

In conclusion, completing a puzzle as a family can be an enjoyable, low-key way to spend New Year's Eve. Set up a comfortable puzzle station with good lighting, turn off the screens, and choose a puzzle that suits your family's interests and skill level. Work together as a team, relax, and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Puzzle away the old year and welcome in the new one with a sense of togetherness, joy, and accomplishment.

Have a karaoke competition

New Year's Eve is always a big occasion and a fantastic opportunity for families to come together and make some unforgettable memories. While going out to a party or joining a big gathering might be the typical way to celebrate, why not enjoy a fun and exciting karaoke competition with your family instead? Here are some steps to set up a fantastic karaoke competition that everyone will remember:

First of all, choose your location! A family member’s house or a party room is an ideal place to have a karaoke competition. Be sure to decorate the place and make it festive. You can have some balloons, decorations, and a countdown clock.

Next, consider the prizes! Set up some prizes for the competition, such as a special gift or a certificate. Ensure that everyone in the family has the chance to win. It's worth it to have a good prize to make the competition more exciting.

Pick the songs! Choose a variety of songs, from classic hits to modern pop, to have something for everyone. You can also set a theme for the night, such as "Songs from the 80s". Create a list of songs you want to have, or let each member pick their own song.

Get set up! One of the best things about karaoke here is that with technology today, setting up karaoke is easier than ever. Consider purchasing a karaoke machine or organizing to use a TV screen to display lyrics and a microphone for each person.

While having fun, set the rules and lay out the format of the competition. Each member can get a chance to sing a song, with a panel of judges from other family members to decide the winner! You can also set up rounds, where the best singers advance until a winner is determined.

Finally, make sure everyone has a great time! One of the best things about family karaoke is the opportunity to make unforgettable memories while having fun without putting too much pressure on winning.

In conclusion, a karaoke competition is an excellent way to bring your family together on New Year's Eve. With music, laughter, and fun, everyone in the family can celebrate the new year in a fun and memorable way. Take lots of photos and have a blast!

Bake cookies or a cake together

As New Year's Eve is approaching, families are looking for creative ways to celebrate together. One idea that is sure to bring everyone together is to bake cookies or a cake together. This activity is a fun way to spend quality time together while creating something delicious and satisfying.

To start, gather all of the necessary ingredients and make sure everyone has an apron to wear to avoid getting too messy. Assign roles and tasks to each person based on their age and skill level. Younger children can help mix ingredients and decorate the final product, while older children can help with more advanced tasks such as measuring and baking.

There are many types of cookies and cakes that you can bake, from classic chocolate chip cookies to vanilla birthday cake. You can also experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create something unique and special.

While waiting for the cookies or cake to bake, spend some time chatting and catching up with each other. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the past year and share your hopes and dreams for the new year. You can also play games or watch a movie to pass the time.

Once the cookies or cake are finished baking, let them cool before digging in. You can enjoy them as a family or share them with friends and neighbors. Eating the delicious treats you created together will be a sweet reminder of the fun and joyful time spent baking as a family.

In conclusion, baking cookies or a cake together is a wonderful family activity to do for New Year's Eve. Not only does it bring everyone together, but it also creates a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. So gather your family together, put on your aprons, and get baking!

Make a family vision board for the new year

As the year comes to a close and families prepare to welcome the new year, it's a great opportunity to come together and make new memories. New Year's Eve is a special time to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year to come. Creating a family vision board is a fun and meaningful activity that can help you envision your family's future and set goals for the coming year.

To start, gather your family members and some supplies. You'll need a large corkboard or poster board, magazines, scissors, glue sticks, and markers. Choose a central theme or focus for your vision board, such as family health and wellness, travel goals, or a particular personal or professional goal. Use markers to write your family's theme on the board, and then start flipping through magazines to find images, words, and phrases that resonate with your vision.

You might choose to include pictures of places you want to visit, quotes that inspire you, or images of happy families spending time together. As you cut out your chosen images and words, arrange them on the board until you have a clear and colorful representation of your family's vision for the year ahead.

As you work on your family vision board, take time to discuss your goals and aspirations together. Encourage each family member to share their hopes and dreams and work together to create a shared vision for the future. This can be a great opportunity to strengthen family bonds and build a sense of unity and purpose.

Display your family vision board somewhere prominent in your home, such as a common area or home office. This will serve as a daily reminder of your family's shared vision and inspire you to work towards your goals and dreams throughout the year.

Making a family vision board is just one of many fun and meaningful family activities to enjoy on New Year's Eve. Whether you choose to have a game night, prepare a special meal together, or simply watch the fireworks, spending time together with loved ones is a wonderful way to ring in the new year and create lasting memories.

Have a DIY spa day at home

With the New Year staring us down, everyone’s planning for the big day and there are countless ways to ring in the New Year with your family. While fancy parties and elaborate celebrations lit with fancy lights sound fun, sometimes, a simple family day at home can be just as memorable. A DIY spa day for new year’s eve can be relaxing, enjoyable, and an incredible bonding experience for every member of your family. Here are some of the best spa ideas that you can try for a great New Year’s eve at home.

Create a Beautiful Spa Environment:

While you don’t need a wholly equipped spa at home, you can still create an atmosphere that feels relaxing, soothing, and fresh. Start by clearing out any clutter and cleaning, especially areas you’ll use for the spa treatment. Pick out some calming music, light candles, and switch on some cold air conditioning if available. These small things can go a long way in making everyone feel relaxed and calm during your family spa day.

Face Masks:

One of the simplest yet effective spa treatments that everyone can enjoy is applying face masks. There are varieties of face masks you can buy from the stores, but you can also make your own using natural ingredients you can find in your kitchen. Compile a selection of masks and let everyone pick their favorites. Avocado, oatmeal, and honey make great base ingredients for most masks and can provide moisturizing, cleansing, and soothing effects on the skin.

Foot Soak:

Our feet are always working hard and often remain neglected, so giving them some attention could count as the perfect way to usher in the New Year. Have everyone soak their feet in a tub of warm water, add some Epsom salts, essential oils, or rose petals, and kick back. Have towels handy for everyone to dry their feet after the soak.

Manicure and Pedicure:

After your family members have soaked their feet, encourage them to give their toes some painting. If you want to splurge, you could buy an at-home manicure kit or take turns applying each other’s polish. Even if the outcome isn’t perfect, the time spent interacting as a family while transforming your nails can be a tremendous memory to mark the start of the new year.

Relaxation Exercises:

As your family members conclude the spa day, encourage everyone to take advantage of the relaxed and comfortable state to do some meditative practices, like deep breathing or yoga. Not only will it feel lovely, but it’s a great way for everyone to center their hearts and minds for the coming year.

In conclusion, a spa day at home is a perfect way to spend new year’s eve with your family. It’s fun, relaxing, and a great way to usher in the New Year. The above ideas should be more than enough to get you started. Remember that it’s all about family bonding, so work within your means and focus on having a great time together.

Play mini golf or laser tag at a local venue

As the year comes to a close, many families are looking for fun and exciting activities to ring in the new year together. One great option for families is to head out to a local venue and play some mini golf or laser tag.

Mini golf is a classic family activity that is perfect for all ages. It offers a chance for some friendly competition, lots of laughs, and a chance to enjoy the outdoors. Many mini golf courses have special themes or obstacles that make the game even more fun. Plus, many venues have indoor courses, which means you can enjoy mini golf no matter the weather.

Laser tag is another fantastic option for families looking for an exciting way to spend New Year's Eve. This high-energy game is perfect for kids who love action and adventure. Players wear vests with sensors and carry laser guns, which they use to shoot their opponents. The goal is to score as many points as possible while avoiding being tagged by others. Laser tag is a great way to get some exercise while having loads of fun.

Many venues that offer mini golf also have laser tag, so families can easily combine the two activities for a full day of fun. Plus, many venues offer packages that include both activities, which can be a great way to save money.

Aside from mini golf and laser tag, some venues may offer other activities such as arcade games or bumper cars. Many venues also have restaurants on-site, allowing families to grab a bite to eat before or after their activities.

When planning a New Year's Eve outing to a local venue for mini golf or laser tag, be sure to call ahead and make a reservation. These activities can be popular, especially on holidays, so it's best to secure a spot ahead of time. Additionally, make sure to arrive early to allow for plenty of time to enjoy all the activities.

In conclusion, playing mini golf or laser tag at a local venue is a perfect way for families to enjoy some quality time together on New Year's Eve. These activities offer lots of fun, excitement, and opportunities for friendly competition. So, gather the family and head out for a night of outdoor or indoor fun, followed by some delicious food and drinks!

Do a New Year's Day hike or walk at a nearby park

As the year comes to a close, there are countless ways to celebrate and ring in the New Year with your family. If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate while also getting in some fresh air and exercise, why not plan a New Year’s Day hike or walk at a nearby park?

Hiking on New Year’s Day has become a popular tradition for many families. Not only does it provide an opportunity to get outside and enjoy nature, but it also serves as a great way to welcome the New Year with a positive attitude.

Before heading out, make sure to do your research and choose a hiking route that is appropriate for your family’s fitness level and ability. Many parks offer easy to moderate hikes that are perfect for families with young children. If you have pets, be sure to check if the park allows dogs and what the leash policies are.

As you hike, take time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Talk to your family about what they hope to achieve in the new year and encourage each other to set positive goals. This is a great opportunity to bond as a family and start the year off on a positive note.

In addition to hiking, many parks also offer other activities such as bird watching or fishing that are perfect for a New Year’s Day outing. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some winter wildlife such as deer or birds of prey.

To make your New Year’s Day hike even more special, pack a picnic lunch or bring along some hot cocoa and snacks to enjoy together. Don’t forget to dress in warm layers and bring along any necessary gear such as hiking boots, hats, and gloves.

In conclusion, a New Year’s Day hike or walk at a nearby park is a great way to spend time with your family and welcome in the New Year with a positive attitude. With a little planning and preparation, you can make this a memorable and fun tradition that your family will look forward to year after year.

Frequently asked questions