New Year’s Eve 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 “it’s 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.
Pantomime – Wizard of Oz
Where – Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts, Brighton
When – 12pm and 5pm on the 31st December
Click together the heels of those ruby red sparkly slippers, close your eyes and open yourself up to the magical world of Brighton Panto, now in its seventh record-breaking year. Brighton Panto is back and will be a magical Christmas show for all the family as we follow the yellow brick road to the Emerald City for an adventure which is truly out of this world.
Dorothy and her dog Toto get transported to the wonderful world of Oz, where they learn that the only way to get back home is to visit the great and powerful Wizard. On their journey to the Emerald City, they meet a Scarecrow who is in need of a brain, a Tin Man who is in need of a heart and a Lion who definitely needs some courage. The four together embark on a magical adventure to see the Wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz.
We’re back at Attenborough Centre of Creative Arts after last year’s smash hit, Peter Pan, and the 2017 panto, The Amazing Adventures of Pinocchio. Directed by James Weisz of JW Productions, which has brought family theatre to Brighton including The Jungle Book; George’s Marvellous Medicine; Peter Pan: A Musical Adventure; Swallows & Amazons; and The Wind in The Willows. The Wizard of Oz is packed with toe-tapping musical numbers and comic routines, now with gorgeous new sets and sumptuous costumes.
Ramsgate Illuminations
1ST DECEMBER – 31ST DECEMBER 2019
The berth holders in the Royal Harbour are busy decorating their vessels in the period leading up to Christmas.
Come and see this wonderful spectacle of boats and local businesses lit up for the festive season
Ice Skating in Kent
Where – Calverley Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent
When – Friday 15 November – Sunday 5 January 2020
Calverley Grounds Ice Rink just got bigger and better!
As well as our impressive ice rink set in the beautiful natural amphitheatre of Calverley Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, we have now built an extra ice rink onsite, especially for our Parent & Toddler Sessions plus, for the first time we bring you Bavarian Curling – hilarious fun for you and your mates. With pop-up restaurants and bars, Santa’s grotto, live music a full programme of activities (to be confirmed) – there’s so much to do at the ice rink this Christmas.
It’s an ideal activity for all ages. Whether you are grabbing a seal for the kids, perfecting your skating moves with your friends, or having that romantic date or night out enjoying the skating plus the live music and cracking atmosphere – you’ll be guaranteed a great time, day or night.
The Ferry House Inn – Isle of Sheppey
Get your glad rags on and join us from 6.30pm 31st December 2019 for our annual party.
Doors open from 6.30pm – Dress Code – Party frocks, anything goes but no sportswear.
Our Event Suite will host the dancing and family friendly seating for 100, with access to the event bar in the Barn. Watch the kids on the dance floor – seats/tables available on a first come basis.
The main bar will have adults only seating.
Food this year is self-served Pulled Pork Rolls & Chips (or Cheese & Tomato Rolls for vegetarians) – with Chocolate Brownie for pudding. Please note, food will be served from 8pm-9.30pm,
so if you are planning on arriving later food will no longer be available.
Tickets cost £17.50 per adult and £9.25 for children – including dinner, fireworks and disco.
Seating & tables for 130 will be available, but these cannot be reserved.
Please note, no entry will be permitted if you’ve not pre-booked tickets.
When you book you will receive a confirmation email – and that is it done! All you need to do is give the booking name on arrival to be ticked off the list on entry.
**Please note it is vital to book your taxi’s in advance otherwise you will not be able to get one! The party finishes around 1am**
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!
Also have a look at our round up of places to take the kids at Halloween and Bonfire Night, as well as where to see Santa in Kent, Christmas Events, and Christmas Markets.
