Family-Friendly Celebrations Across the North Shore of Massachusetts

Whether your family loves early countdowns, hands-on activities, ice skating, or simple small-town charm, the North Shore has something festive for everyone this New Year’s Eve. Say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026 with one (or more!) of these fun, local celebrations. From Salem to Newburyport to Peabody, here are the best kid-approved NYE events happening across our coastal corner of Massachusetts.

🕛 Early “Noon Year’s Eve” Celebrations

Perfect for little ones who won’t make it to midnight!

🥳 Noon Year’s Eve Party — North Shore Children’s Museum (Peabody)

Ring in the new year at the perfect time! Enjoy museum play, crafts, dancing, and a ball drop countdown at noon.
Great for: Toddlers, preschoolers, early-elementary kids.

🎊 Noon Year’s Eve Bash — Newburyport Recreation

Fun crafts, gym games, snacks, and a 12 PM balloon drop make this a top pick for families on the North Shore.
Great for: Ages 3–10.

🎉 Noon Year’s Eve at The Children’s Piazza (Beverly)

Sensory fun, music, open play, and a cheerful early countdown.
Great for: Babies, toddlers, preschoolers.

🎈 New Year’s Eve Events (Afternoon & Early Evening)

Ideal for families who want celebration without staying up late.

🧨 LAUNCH! Salem’s New Year’s Eve Celebration — Salem Main Streets

A beloved 4:30–6 PM street festival featuring:
✔ Arts & crafts
✔ Magic shows
✔ Face painting
✔ Silent disco
✔ Early-countdown celebration
Great for: All ages — this is one of the most family-friendly NYE events on the North Shore!

🎡 New Year’s Eve Family Event — Danvers Indoor Sports

Bouncy houses, turf games, sports activities, and music. Perfect for burning off pre-countdown energy!
Great for: Active kids ages 4–12.

🎨 Create & Escape DIY Studio NYE Workshop — Peabody

Kids create fun winter or New Year-themed projects to kick off 2026.
Great for: Craft-loving kids ages 6+.

⛸️ NYE Public Skating — Haverhill Veterans Memorial Rink

A festive afternoon skate with music and a fun seasonal vibe.
Great for: All skating levels.

🎤 Gloucester’s Family New Year’s Eve

Traditionally features early fireworks, community activities, kids’ crafts, and live entertainment.
Great for: Families wanting a seaside celebration.

🎆 Late-Night New Year’s Eve Options for Families with Older Kids & Teens

🎭 Rockport New Year’s Eve (RNYE)

A legendary North Shore tradition with dozens of performances throughout town, ending with a midnight ball drop. Includes music, puppetry, magic, dance, and more.
Great for: Families with older kids and teens.

🎇 Newburyport Fireworks (Weather permitting)

Some years include early evening fireworks over the waterfront—check seasonal schedules for updates.
Great for: Families looking for a coastal celebration without heading into Boston.

🎤 Ipswich NYE Community Celebration

Often includes live music, bonfires, cocoa, and family-friendly activities hosted in the downtown area.
Great for: Families staying local and cozy.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Daytime North Shore Activities for NYE (Dec 31)

Fun ways to fill the day before evening celebrations:

🎳 In The Game Peabody

Bowling, arcade games, ropes course, laser tag—an instant hit for all ages.

🎡 Gametime Lanes (Amesbury or Peabody)

Great for daytime bowling, arcade fun, and snacks.

🏰 Hammond Castle (Gloucester)

Explore a real medieval-style castle—always a kid favorite.

🎨 Peabody Essex Museum (Salem)

Special holiday programming, craft activities, and hands-on exhibits.

🐟 Joppa Flats Education Center (Newburyport)

Winter wildlife programs, scavenger hunts, and nature exploration.

🌟 New Year’s Day & Holiday Week Fun (Jan 1 & Beyond)

Kick off 2026 with local North Shore traditions!

🥾 First Day Hikes — State Parks Across MA

Including Bradley Palmer (Hamilton), Breakheart Reservation (Saugus), and Willowdale State Forest (Ipswich).

🐾 New Year’s Day Beach Walk — Plum Island

Bundle up and start the year with sea air and winter wildlife spotting.

🎇 Tips for Enjoying New Year’s Eve with Kids

• ✔ Dress warm for outdoor events!
• ✔ Bring snacks and water — lines can be long.
• ✔ Arrive early for parking in Salem, Newburyport, Rockport, and Gloucester.
• ✔ Choose celebrations based on your kids’ bedtime and energy level.