The Riverbend Children’s Discovery Center welcomed families to its annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, offering a daytime alternative to traditional late-night New Year’s events tailored specifically for children and their caregivers.
The event, which ran from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., featured a series of mini-countdowns at 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m., and 11:30 a.m., culminating in a noon finale with confetti cannons and a balloon drop. Organizers encouraged attendees to arrive “in your sequins and sneakers” for a morning of music, dancing, and interactive activities throughout the center.
Children took part in making noisemakers and countdown clocks, decorated festive hats, and engaged in kindness-themed projects designed to encourage positive habits in the new year. The frequent mini-countdowns were planned to help younger participants experience the excitement of a New Year’s celebration without the late hour.
“A lot of our programming is hands-on and designed to make learning exciting,” said Jamie Foster, director of marketing for the Discovery Center. “That’s reflected not just today, but in many of the exhibits and events we host year-round.” Foster emphasized the center’s philosophy of using play as a vehicle for learning and engagement.
Young guests expressed enthusiasm for the festivities. “I can’t wait for the balloon drop. I’m going to try to pop as many as I can,” said Sydney Walker, age 7. Another attendee, Mason Rivers, shared his resolutions for 2026: “I want to join summer camp, try out for soccer, and start taking art classes.” Several children identified hands-on installations as highlights, with one describing, “The machine that blows air to move things around is my favorite. It’s so much fun to play with.”
Admission to Noon Year’s Eve was $13 for the general public and free for center members. The seasonal exhibit, Winter Wonderland Adventure, remained open through Jan. 4, 2026, providing families with additional holiday-themed activities during their visit.
Noon Year’s Eve at Riverbend Children’s Discovery Center offered a family-friendly alternative to midnight celebrations, blending the excitement of a New Year’s countdown with the center’s educational mission. With music, crafts, movement, and confetti, the event aimed to provide a festive and memorable start to 2026 for visitors of all ages.
For details on upcoming events, membership options, and tickets, contact the Riverbend Children’s Discovery Center or visit their website.
