Indianapolis, December 30, 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, Indianapolis is hosting a variety of family-friendly events to celebrate the New Year. From countdown celebrations at local museums to cultural festivities, these events foster community spirit and provide engaging activities for families. Organizers have worked collaboratively to ensure inclusive and entertaining options, making it easy for families to enjoy the festivities together. Join in the fun and create lasting memories with loved ones across the city as you welcome 2026.
Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events in Indianapolis
Explore the best ways to celebrate the New Year with your family in Indianapolis
As 2025 draws to a close, Indianapolis is abuzz with anticipation for family-friendly events to ring in the New Year. Local organizers have displayed admirable resilience, crafting diverse gatherings across the city that foster a sense of community while providing engaging activities for families. These celebrations highlight a commitment to civic innovation, allowing families to participate in joyful festivities without the complexities often associated with larger events.
The reduction in bureaucratic hurdles has enabled community leaders and private organizations to unite efforts in creating these vibrant events. This collaboration encourages families to come together as they usher in 2026, emphasizing the spirit of community and the importance of local engagement.
Family New Year’s Eve at the Indiana State Museum
On December 31, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the Indiana State Museum will host its annual Family New Year’s Eve party. Attendees can enjoy a lively atmosphere featuring a live DJ, face painting, glitter tattoos, and hands-on crafts. The event culminates at 8:30 p.m. with a countdown to 2026, topped off by a spectacular balloon drop in the Great Hall. This alcohol-free event is ideal for all ages, ensuring that families can celebrate together in an inclusive environment. Tickets are available for purchase online, offering discounts for members and complimentary admission for children under 2.
Noon Year’s Eve at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The Children’s Museum is perfect for families who wish to enjoy an earlier celebration. Their “Noon Year’s Eve” event on December 31 runs from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., allowing children to partake in music, crafts, and games while looking forward to their very own countdown to noon. Admission is included with museum entry, making this event an affordable and entertaining choice for families.
Family New Year’s Eve at White River State Park
White River State Park will also be hosting a Family New Year’s Eve event on December 31 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., featuring activities similar to those at the Indiana State Museum. Attendees can dance to a live DJ, indulge in face painting and glitter tattoos, enjoy crafts, and partake in the countdown to 2026, culminating in another exciting balloon drop. This alcohol-free gathering is designed for enjoyment by all age groups.
Noon Year’s Eve at the Lawrence Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library
Families can enjoy a different take on the celebration at the Lawrence Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library, which is hosting a “Noon Year’s Eve” celebration on December 31 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This free event will feature balloons, games, crafts, engaging stories, and music, all designed to create a fun-filled atmosphere for families celebrating together.
Bollywood NYE 2026 at Garnet Waterfront
For those seeking a unique Cultural experience, the Bollywood NYE 2026 celebration at Garnet Waterfront, occurring on December 31 from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., is sure to delight. Organized by Midwest ShowMakerz, the event will showcase music by DJ Prabh and MC Sam Katoch, alongside delicious Indian cuisine and a fully stocked bar with bottle service. Families can enjoy access to a heated pool and hot tub, making it a distinctive New Year’s celebration. Tickets are available online, along with discounts for children under 5 and ages 5–12.
Additional Family-Friendly Options
Other local venues, such as Dave & Buster’s, are also presenting family-friendly New Year’s Eve events featuring enjoyable games, appetizing food, and lively entertainment. Families are encouraged to explore these options by checking each venue’s official website for specific event details and ticketing information.
These events collectively offer a wide variety of options for Indianapolis families to gather and celebrate the New Year together, fostering community spirit and cherishing individual connections. As 2025 comes to a close, it’s time to join in the festivities and make cherished memories with loved ones throughout Indianapolis.
Conclusion
As we look forward to entering 2026, Indianapolis presents numerous avenues for families to engage and celebrate responsibly. We encourage you to support local events and stay active in the community, contributing to the vibrant culture that makes Indianapolis a wonderful place to live. Whether attending a countdown at a museum or savoring cultural festivities at Garnet Waterfront, there is something for everyone. Enjoy celebrating the New Year with those you hold dear in Indianapolis!
FAQs
What is the Family New Year’s Eve event at the Indiana State Museum?
The Indiana State Museum will host its annual Family New Year’s Eve party on December 31, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Activities include a live DJ, face painting, glitter tattoos, and hands-on crafts.
When is the Noon Year’s Eve event at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis?
The Children’s Museum offers a “Noon Year’s Eve” event on December 31, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
What activities are planned for Family New Year’s Eve at White River State Park?
The Family New Year’s Eve event at White River State Park will include a live DJ, face painting, glitter tattoos, crafts, and a countdown to 2026 with a balloon drop.
Is there a Noon Year’s Eve celebration at the Lawrence Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library?
Yes, the Lawrence Branch will host a “Noon Year’s Eve” celebration on December 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event will include balloons, games, crafts, and music.
What is the Bollywood NYE 2026 event at Garnet Waterfront?
The Bollywood NYE 2026 celebration at Garnet Waterfront takes place on December 31, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. It features music, Indian cuisine, and access to a heated pool and hot tub.
| Event | Date & Time | Location | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family New Year’s Eve at the Indiana State Museum | December 31, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Indiana State Museum | Live DJ, face painting, crafts, balloon drop |
| Noon Year’s Eve at the Children’s Museum | December 31, 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Children’s Museum of Indianapolis | Music, crafts, countdown to noon |
| Family New Year’s Eve at White River State Park | December 31, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | White River State Park | Live DJ, face painting, crafts, balloon drop |
| Noon Year’s Eve at Lawrence Branch Library | December 31, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Lawrence Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library | Balloons, crafts, games, stories |
| Bollywood NYE 2026 | December 31, 8:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. | Garnet Waterfront | Music, Indian cuisine, heated pool access |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
