As 2017 winds down, everyone prepares for the biggest party of the year: New Year’s Eve. While there are seemingly endless celebrations on the schedule for the over-21 crowd, Ohio also has a host of events perfect for the whole family. From light shows at the zoo to first night festivals, here are the 10 best New Year’s Eve Events in Ohio!
On Sunday, December 31 from 4-7 p.m., head to Skate Zone in Columbus for a mock countdown for the little ones. The event costs $12 and includes admission to the skating rink, skate rental, unlimited pizza and drinks, and a fun countdown to the new year!
The Cincinnati Zoo will transform into a “Wild Wonderland” for its annual festival of lights. From 5-9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, families can enjoy a magnificent lights show on Swan Lake, snacks at the S’mores-n-More stand, and visits with Santa.
One of the biggest New Year’s celebrations is happening in downtown Columbus on December 31 starting at 5:30 p.m. This family-friendly, substance-free event will host a variety of activities from music and dance to kids’ games and creation stations.
Head to Merwin’s Wharf for the annual Kids New Year’s Eve Brunch in Cleveland. This family-friendly event includes an all-you-can-eat delicious buffet, and activities for children to enjoy. The celebration will end with a countdown and balloon drop to ring in the new year. Reserve your spot at 9 a.m., 12 p.m., or 3 p.m.
Magic Mountain Fun Center in Columbus is hosting an all-day New Year’s Eve event for families to enjoy a variety of activities, including laser tag, video arcade games, miniature golf, go-karts, and more. There will specials on all activities all day long.
On New Year’s Eve, the Columbus Zoo will put on a spectacular holiday light show with millions of lights, animated musical lights, and holiday festivities. In addition to the show, guests can get up close with some animals.
On New Year’s Eve, the State Theater will feature a family-friendly film followed by an early countdown and celebration. The event starts at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
Escape the wintry temperatures with a visit to Castaway Bay, an indoor water park resort. This New Year’s Eve, the water park resort will host a variety of family-friendly events, such as a New Year’s Eve Parade with Snoopy, a DJ and photo booth, and a Kid’s New Year’s Eve Dance Party.
Keep the family entertained with a fun night of bowling at Sequoia Bowl Pro in Columbus. The late-night event will feature music, pizza, and unlimited games of laser light bowling.
This New Year’s Eve, the Cincinnati Cyclones hockey team will end the evening with an incredible indoor fireworks display. This family-friendly event will begin with a special start time at 6:05 p.m.