The dawn of a new year brings excitement and anticipation for families looking to celebrate together. Across the region, venues are offering special early celebrations that cater to children and adults alike, ensuring everyone can partake in the festive spirit without staying up late. Two notable events stand out: one at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington and another at Ocean Isle Beach, both designed to make the holiday memorable for all ages.

Join the Fun: Experience Unforgettable Early-Year Celebrations with Your Loved Ones

Children’s Museum of Wilmington: A Joyful Countdown to Noon

Families in Wilmington have an exciting opportunity to celebrate the arrival of the new year without waiting until midnight. The Children’s Museum of Wilmington invites attendees to join in on the festivities from 9 a.m. to noon on December 31st. Located at 116 Orange Street, this event promises an engaging morning filled with activities that reflect on the past year while looking forward to the future.Participants can engage in creative crafts such as crafting streamer wands and decorating party crowns. These hands-on projects provide not only entertainment but also a chance for reflection. As the clock strikes noon, the museum will host an epic confetti toss in the courtyard, marking the official countdown to the new year. Families can continue exploring the museum after the event ends, enjoying general admission starting at noon. Tickets for this event cost $15 per person, with free entry for infants under 12 months. To ensure a spot at this popular gathering, tickets should be purchased in advance through the museum's website. For more details or assistance, visitors can reach out by calling 910-254-3534.

Ocean Isle Beach: A Vibrant Noon Year Celebration Under the Sun

For those seeking an outdoor experience, Ocean Isle Beach offers a lively Noon Year celebration at Town Center Park. From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., residents and tourists alike are invited to join in on this kid-friendly event, which is entirely free and open to the public. Situated at 11 E. Second Street, the park becomes a hub of activity where families can enjoy various attractions leading up to the noon countdown.The event features a dance party that builds excitement as the moment approaches. Children can participate in craft-making sessions, adding a personal touch to their New Year’s memorabilia. Face painting by Vicki Paints adds a whimsical element, though it comes with a nominal fee. Refreshments, including donuts from Blondiez Donuts, will be available for purchase, providing sustenance amidst the fun.Following the outdoor festivities, children receive a half-price admission coupon to visit the Museum of Coastal Carolina. Located just steps away at 21 E. Second Street, the museum extends its welcoming arms with additional activities and programs. Families can dive into educational experiences like the Sea Tales program, write down their New Year’s resolutions, and even create fireworks in a jar—a safe and imaginative way to simulate the traditional display.For further information about this enriching event, interested parties can contact the organizers at 910-579-1016. Both celebrations offer unique ways to embrace the spirit of renewal, making them perfect for families who wish to start the year on a joyful note.