Discover Birmingham, Alabama: The Perfect Place for Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events

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Birmingham, Alabama skyline from river

When spending New Year’s Eve with your family, the big-city celebrations you might have enjoyed as a young adult suddenly sound too chaotic and crowded to enjoy. It can be easy to surrender to staying in for the holiday. However, don’t give up. Instead, consider a trip to Birmingham, Alabama. Though it might not be the first destination that comes to mind, this vibrant Southern city is an unexpected gem for family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebrations.



Situated in the heart of the Deep South, Birmingham offers a unique blend of Southern charm, cultural richness, and an array of exciting activities that make it an ideal place to welcome the new year with your family. From live music performances to kid-friendly festivities, Birmingham has something to offer everyone. Discover the magic of Birmingham, Alabama as the unexpected but perfect place to welcome the arrival of the new year with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories with your family by your side. What could be more worth traveling for this New Year’s Eve?

Daytime activities for the family on New Year’s Eve

Kids with New Year's Eve photo props

Although most of the world will be up until dawn on New Year’s Eve, this isn’t really feasible if you are with the family. This is especially true if you have little ones. Fortunately, families in Birmingham come together each year for a daytime party everyone can participate in. Cleverly enough, these gatherings are often titled as a “Noon Year’s Eve Party.” For instance, in 2022, the McWane Science Center hosted this event, and in 2023, the Goldfish Swim School is hosting one of its own.

These mellow festivities usually start around 11 a.m. Kids have the chance to socialize with peers their age while participating in crafts and activities put together by the organizer. Kids can enjoy a thrilling countdown to noon with the whole party as a fun way to experience the excitement of this tradition that most children would otherwise sleep through. While in Birmingham, you’ll quickly realize it is anĀ underrated city in America’s South people shouldn’t skip visiting, especially on New Year’s Eve. You’ll find it easy to enjoy quality family time on this party holiday even if you decide to have an early night in.

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Evening plans for New Year’s Eve with kids

Father and son playing game

Luckily, in Birmingham, you don’t have to wait until 10 p.m. for the New Year’s Eve events to start kicking off. Long before that, the city comes alive with plenty of fun parties and celebrations for you and your family to participate in. A popular event in Birmingham is the GLOW WILD nighttime display at the Birmingham Zoo. Once the sun has set, the zoo lights up with an amazing collection of wild animal lanterns. Bundle up and stroll together through these spectacular, glowing fixtures. In addition, you and your kids can attend the variety of acrobatic shows performing for the event. At a refreshing 6 p.m., the zoo will welcome the coming year with a celebratory NYE drop.

If you want to make sure you and your family get a good night of rest before the brand-new year begins, tire your kids out at Dave ‘N Busters Birmingham. This location offers a special NYE package that includes limitless gaming and a large selection of kid-friendly appetizers. What’s more, the entire arcade joins in on a ginger ale toast and interactive countdown. Depending on your energy levels, you have the option to attend a 4 p.m. or the 9 p.m. show. After an evening this exciting, you and your loved ones will fall into bed with a smile on your face and unforgettable memories to take into the new year.



Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.