We found two kid-friendly New Year’s Eve events in and around Indianapolis with 2026 dates: one Noon Year’s Eve countdown and one early-evening celebration. A noon countdown means a balloon drop or bubble-wrap stomp at midday, home in time for nap.
New here?
A real countdown, balloon drop and all, at a time that works for toddlers. These are typical times; each card has the venue’s exact ones.
Countdown at noon
Confirmed for 2026, with times, prices and ticket details from each venue’s own page.
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis · 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208
With littles: Live music from Zak Morgan and free party favors while they last. Two countdowns, so you can pick the one that fits nap time.
Early bedtime friendly
Countdowns and celebrations that wrap up early enough for little kids.
Indiana State Museum · 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204
With littles: An alcohol-free party with a live DJ, face painting and hands-on activities in Celebration Crossing.
Before you go
TicketsIf it’s ticketed, book earlyNoon countdowns can fill up, so book once tickets open.
TimingArrive 30 minutes earlyCoats off, snack in, spot found before the countdown starts.
NoiseBring ear muffs for babiesBubble-wrap stomps and cheering get loud right at noon.Keep planning
Good questions
Countdown to Noon at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis: Thu, Dec 31, 2026, Countdowns at noon and 1 p.m. (Included with museum admission).
Family New Year's Eve: 6–8:30 p.m.; countdown and balloon drop at 8:30 p.m.
A New Year’s countdown for little kids held at noon on Dec. 31 instead of midnight, usually with a balloon drop, bubble-wrap stomp, crafts and music. It’s over before nap, so nobody has to stay up late.
Each listing comes from the venue’s or organizer’s own page and links to it. We only list a date, time or price when that page shows it, and anything we can’t confirm stays off. These were last checked Oct 18, 2026, and we recheck them every Thursday in December. How we choose and check.
Littles Weekly
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