New Year with kids near Kent
I think it’s fair to say that since having kids, the plans we make to see in the New Year have changed somewhat to when we were young and carefree. Well, actually I use the word “plans” in its loosest possible meaning, as truthfully, since becoming a Mumma I have been in my PJ’s curled up on the sofa with a cup of tea by 9pm each New Years Eve. Of course, I defiantly tell anyone who asks that ” I don’t know what all the fuss is about anyway” or ” its no different to any other evening” , whilst harbouring an inner angst at how lame that sounds, even to my own ears.
I mean, New Year is cool, right? A celebration of what we have achieved over the past 12 months and a chance to get excited about what amazing things we will embark upon over the coming fresh year of hope and dreams. Ok, that’s probably a bit much, but you get my drift. So, whilst partying into the early hours, downing tequila slammers and returning home dishevelled and missing a shoe are not on the agenda ( anymore) for us responsible and sophisticated Mummas and Papas, there are some fab fun family friendly things to enjoy over New Year. Most of which allow us to be back in time so the children don’t miss bedtime and we can curl up on the sofa with a brew. Thank God.
Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave
Where – Clapham Common, London on New Years Eve ( plus various other locations around the UK) Click here for more info
When – 13:00 – 15:00 – 31st December 2017 ( plus various other dates)
Yes, you heard me right people. A rave. With the kids. Big Fish Little Fish brings together globally renowned DJs, fun craft and play activities for children, and a multi-sensory dancefloor experience with bubble machines and giant balloons. For more information and tickets click here.
The Amazing Adventures of Pinocchio
Where – Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts, Brighton
When – 2pm 31st December
The festive season is not complete until you have enjoyed a pantomime. Pinocchio at the Attenborough Centre in Brighton has some excellent reviews and is fun for all the family. For ticket info click here.
Bricklive
Where – Saatchi Gallery, London
When – 25th November – 7th January ( inc 31st December)
BRICKLIVE Christmas is a unique event for lego fans and creative types of all ages. Running throughout December and into the New Year the show offers the perfect trip out for the entire family.
BRICKLIVE Christmas offers a unique experience with plenty of activities and interactive art workshops. You can learn from the expert builder displays, build a mosaic, build a present and even meet Father Christmas.
The show is split across four zones, the Christmas Zone, the Creative Zone, Minecraft and Star Wars. Each one offers a different experience in building and creating and you will not be short of things to do.
Magic Lantern Festival
Where – Chiswick House and Gardens
When – Throughout December including 31st.
The Festival is a spectacular fusion of art, heritage and culture. It is made up of beautifully sculpted lanterns taking various forms. Enter a magical experience and discover lanterns in all shapes and forms, including Father Christmas and his reindeer.
The entertainment area adds another dimension to this to a fantastic family friendly night out. There’s a food area, a bar, Santa’s Grotto, fairground rides for children and souvenir shop.
Raver Tots New Years Eve Party with Brandon Block
Where – McQueen, 55–61 Tabernacle Street, London
When – 31st December / New Years Eve
Here’s another rave option for the adventurous amongst us. Celebrating the best of British rave culture, expect some of the countries biggest name DJ’s playing the best in old skool rave, Happy Hardcore, Drum & Bass, House and Garage with tonnes of kids fun including soft play areas, parachutes, glow sticks, ball ponds, bubbles and balloons! Raver Tots promises a wild and wacky adventure for all ages in a safe environment. And, its all for a good cause as Raver Tots raises money and awareness for children and adults with Autism and ADHD.
Brandon Block tho!!!! You should be dancing….yeah….
Family Funfair New Year’s Eve Party
Where – Margate Winter Gardens
When – 7:30pm – 12:30 am New Years Eve
Everything to make this a New Year’s Eve to remember for the whole family.
Ice Skating in Kent
Where – Calverley Gardens, Tunbridge Wells
When – 17th November to 1st January 2018
Visit Royal Tunbridge Wells for fun filled family ice skating. Surely this one will keep everyone happy!
For more information click here
I hope you now know how to spend your New Year with kids in Kent. I hope you are now feeling inspired and ready to see the New Year in, in style.
Happy New Year !
How about reading our 10 best places to visit Santa in Kent article next
If you’re looking for a great family day out, how about reading our Diggerland review