New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, reflection, and looking forward to new beginnings. But let’s be honest, keeping kids entertained until the clock strikes midnight can be a challenge. This is where fun games come in handy! Instead of just counting down the hours, why not fill them with laughter, creativity, and excitement?
Whether you’re planning a small family gathering or a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve bash, having a lineup of engaging games is essential. In this post, we’ll explore 21 fantastic New Year’s Eve games that will keep the little ones entertained, engaged, and filled with joy all night long. So, let’s dive in and make this New Year’s Eve the most memorable one yet!
1. Minute to Win It Games
Minute to Win It games are quick, easy to set up, and full of energy. These games require simple household items like ping-pong balls, cups, and spoons, making them perfect for a last-minute activity. The idea is simple: complete a fun and often silly task within one minute.
Kids can compete individually or in teams, adding a healthy dose of competition to the mix. One game might involve stacking cups as high as possible without them falling over, while another could see them racing to move cotton balls using only a spoon held in their mouths. Not only are these games a hit, but they’re also a great way to burn off some energy before midnight!
2. New Year’s Eve Scavenger Hunt
Create a list of New Year’s-themed items to find around the house or yard, and let the adventure begin! You can make it even more exciting by adding clues or riddles that lead from one item to the next, ultimately ending in a “treasure” such as a bag of goodies or a small toy.
This game keeps kids on their toes and encourages teamwork if they play in pairs or small groups. You could even customize the scavenger hunt to reflect the past year’s highlights or New Year’s resolutions, making it both entertaining and meaningful.
3. Glow-in-the-Dark Ring Toss
When the lights go out, the fun doesn’t have to stop! A Glow-in-the-Dark Ring Toss game adds a magical touch to your New Year’s Eve celebration. All you need are some glow-in-the-dark rings and a few targets, such as empty bottles or cones.
Turn off the lights and let the kids toss the glowing rings, trying to loop them around the targets. This game is simple, but the glowing elements add a wow factor that keeps kids entertained. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate some physical activity into the night.
4. Slumber Party Game
The Slumber Party game is perfect for kids who want to wind down after a night of excitement. Set up a cozy space with blankets and pillows, and have the kids come in their pajamas. The game involves telling fun or spooky stories, playing charades, or watching a family-friendly movie to create a relaxed yet engaging environment.
To add a twist, you can include activities like a pillow fight challenge or a “sleeping bag race,” where kids hop around in their sleeping bags. This game is a great way to transition from high-energy New Year’s Eve activities to a more calming, bedtime-ready atmosphere. It’s ideal for a late-night wind-down, especially for younger children.
5. New Year’s Eve Balloon Countdown
With a New Year’s Eve Balloon Countdown, the fun lasts all evening. Each balloon contains a piece of paper with a different activity or game written on it. At each hour (or half-hour, depending on how many activities you have planned), the kids pop a balloon and complete the activity inside.
This could be anything from a dance-off to making a New Year’s craft. It’s a great way to keep the energy up and ensure the kids are having fun while waiting for the big moment.
6. Fireworks in a Jar
It is a simple yet mesmerizing science experiment that doubles as a fun game for kids on New Year’s Eve. To create this magical “firework” effect, you only need a few basic ingredients: water, oil, and food coloring. The different densities of oil and water allow the food coloring to slowly “explode” into the water, creating a visual display that looks just like fireworks.
Kids will be fascinated watching the colorful “fireworks” burst and swirl in the jar, making it a perfect quiet activity between more energetic games. It’s not only fun but also a fantastic opportunity to introduce basic scientific concepts like density and chemical reactions in an engaging way.
7. Indoor Snowball Fight
An Indoor Snowball Fight uses soft, plush “snowballs” that are safe to throw around the house. Set up some forts with blankets or cushions, divide the kids into teams, and let the battle begin!
This game provides a lot of fun without any of the cold, and it’s an excellent way to let the kids blow off some steam indoors. It’s especially great if you live in an area where real snow isn’t an option.
8. Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Toss
Combine a classic game with a delicious drink with the Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Toss. Set up cups of hot cocoa at varying distances and have kids toss marshmallows into them. The reward? They get to enjoy the warm drink afterward!
This game is perfect for a cozy New Year’s Eve and provides a mix of competition and comfort. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up if you’ve been playing outside.
9. Two Resolutions and a Lie
A twist on the classic “Two Truths and a Lie” game, Two Resolutions and a Lie involves players making three statements—two real resolutions and one fake. The goal is for the others to guess which one is the lie.
This game is not only fun but also a great way to get to know each other better. It can spark interesting conversations and encourage kids to think about their own goals for the coming year.
10. Paint Gun War
It is an exciting and action-packed game that brings a burst of adrenaline to any New Year’s Eve celebration. Kids are divided into two teams, each armed with paint guns loaded with washable, non-toxic paint. The goal is simple, tag as many players from the opposing team as possible without getting tagged yourself.
To make it even more thrilling, set up obstacles like cardboard boxes or inflatable barriers to provide cover and add a tactical element to the game. This game is best played outdoors and requires protective gear like goggles and old clothes to keep things safe and fun.
11. Family Guess Who?
Turn the classic Guess Who? game into a family-themed version. Use photos of family members or friends and create custom game cards. This personalized version adds a special touch and makes the game more relatable and fun.
It’s a wonderful way for kids to connect with family, especially if you have guests from different generations attending the party.
12. New Year’s Eve Musical Chairs
Musical chairs never gets old, and it’s even better with a New Year’s twist! Play festive New Year’s songs and let the kids dance around the chairs. When the music stops, they have to quickly find a seat.
This game is high-energy, simple, and always entertaining. Plus, it gets everyone moving, which is perfect after indulging in some holiday treats!
13. New Year’s Eve Poker Match
The game is a fun twist on the classic card game, perfect for family gatherings. Instead of playing for money, kids and adults can use candy, small toys, or even New Year’s-themed tokens as their stakes. The game can be made more festive by incorporating New Year’s elements, like having each player create a resolution or memory they share when they win a hand.
This game is not only entertaining but also encourages interaction and storytelling, making it a great way to bond with loved ones as you ring in the New Year. It’s a versatile activity that can be tailored to different age groups, ensuring everyone has a great time.
14. Balloon Stomp
It is an exciting, high-energy game that kids absolutely love. Each player ties a balloon to their ankle with a string, and the goal is to stomp on and pop the balloons of other players while keeping their own balloon safe. The game continues until only one person has an unpopped balloon, making them the winner!
This game is perfect for getting kids moving and adds a thrilling competitive edge to your New Year’s Eve party. It’s easy to set up, requires minimal materials, and brings lots of laughter and excitement to the celebration. Just make sure you have plenty of space and be prepared for some squeals of delight!
15. Disco Ball Piñata
This game is a creative twist on the traditional piñata that brings sparkle and excitement to New Year’s Eve. To prepare, craft a shiny disco ball piñata filled with candies, confetti, or small toys. Hang it up in a safe space, and let kids take turns whacking it with a soft bat or stick until the surprises burst out, adding to the festive atmosphere.
This game not only adds a fun element to your celebration but also serves as a great way to keep kids active and entertained. The glittering piñata fits perfectly with the New Year’s Eve theme, creating a memorable moment as the clock ticks down to midnight. Make sure to capture the joy on their faces when the goodies rain down!
16. Party in the Streamer
Party in the Streamer is a festive and active game that’s perfect for keeping kids entertained on New Year’s Eve. Start by hanging colorful streamers across a doorway or in a designated area, creating a “curtain” of streamers. The goal is for the kids to dance and play as they move through the streamers, trying not to tear or disturb them.
This game adds a fun, interactive element to your party, encouraging kids to be mindful of their movements while still enjoying the music and festivities.
17. New Year’s Eve Dice Game
It is a simple yet entertaining activity that keeps kids engaged and excited. Each player takes turns rolling the dice and following prompts based on the number they roll. These prompts could include fun actions like dancing, answering New Year’s-themed questions, or even completing a quick challenge.
This game is perfect for adding an element of surprise and creativity to your New Year’s Eve celebration. It encourages interaction, laughter, and a bit of friendly competition, making it a great way to keep the party lively as you countdown to midnight.
18. Donut on a String
This game is a delightful New Year’s Eve activity that’s as messy as it is fun. In this game, donuts are hung from a string, and kids are challenged to eat them without using their hands. The sight of kids trying to take bites of the dangling donuts always leads to giggles and lots of laughter.
It’s a simple yet hilarious game that can be played both indoors and outdoors, making it versatile for any party setting. Plus, the promise of a tasty treat at the end ensures that everyone is eager to participate!
19. Charades
Charades is a classic party game that’s perfect for New Year’s Eve. In this game, players take turns acting out words or phrases without speaking, while others try to guess what they’re acting out. It’s a fun way to get everyone involved, with lots of laughter as players try to communicate through gestures alone.
To play, simply write down various New Year’s-themed words or phrases on slips of paper, then place them in a bowl. Players pick a slip and have a set time to act out the word while their teammates guess. It’s an entertaining way to keep the energy high and ensure everyone has a great time.
20. New Year’s Eve Bingo Game
Bingo is a classic game that’s always a hit with kids, and it’s easy to give it a New Year’s Eve twist. Create bingo cards with New Year’s themed images or words like fireworks, champagne glasses, or the year number. As the evening progresses, call out the items, and have kids mark them off on their cards. The first one to get five in a row wins a prize!
This game is perfect for groups of all sizes and can be easily adjusted for different age levels. You can even let the kids decorate their own bingo cards before the game starts, adding a creative element to the fun.
21. New Year Kids Balloon Pop
The Balloon Pop game is a lively and thrilling activity that will keep kids on their toes during your New Year’s Eve celebration. Each child ties a balloon to their ankle and tries to pop everyone else’s balloons while protecting their own. The last one with an intact balloon is the winner, making for an exciting and competitive game!
This game is perfect for burning off some energy and creating a lot of laughter. It’s easy to set up, requires minimal materials, and can be played indoors or outdoors, making it a versatile choice for any party. Get ready for some squeals of delight as the kids chase each other in this action-packed game!
Conclusion
New Year’s Eve is not just about the countdown; it’s about making lasting memories with the people you love. With these 21 engaging games for kids, your New Year’s Eve celebration will be filled with laughter, excitement, and unforgettable moments.
Whether it’s a high-energy balloon stomp or a quiet and reflective year-in-review trivia, there’s a game for every type of celebration. So, gather your little ones, set up these fun activities, and get ready to ring in the New Year with joy, giggles, and lots of fun!
Happy New Year, and let the games begin!