For most adults, ringing in the New Year means heading to one of Vancouver's Top 10 New Year's Eve Parties; but since those events are 19+ (and generally involve alcohol), they aren't the place for families with kids or teens under 19.
Luckily, the options for family-friendly, all-ages New Year's Eve events in Vancouver are growing: this is the second year Robson Square will host an all-ages New Year's Eve celebration, and there are more great all-ages parties around Metro Vancouver.
Use this Guide to the Top All-Ages New Year's Eve Events in Vancouver to find the perfect celebration for your family and friends!
All events happen on Monday, December 31, 2012.
1. New Year's Eve at Robson Square - FREE
Image Courtesy of Inside Vancouver
Robson Square has long served as Vancouver's de facto town square: it's home to Vancouver's only outdoor ice rink (for free ice skating December - February) and is ground-zero for almost every holiday and festival. It's also the site of the best free, all-ages New Year's Eve event in Vancouver: New Year's Eve at Robson Square includes free ice skating, live music, roaming performers, free noisemakers for the kids, and two early countdowns at 7pm and 9pm for revelers who need to be in bed before midnight.
2. Bright Nights at Stanley Park
Image Courtesy of Vancouver Park Board
One of Vancouver's Top 5 Holiday Attractions, Bright Nights in Stanley Park is one of the best all-ages New Year's Eve events in Vancouver for younger kids. At Bright Nights, the forest around the famous Stanley Park Miniature Train is transformed into a winter wonderland with incredible light and holiday displays; kids get to ride the train, watch animated displays, enjoy holiday music, and nosh on hot cocoa and fresh popcorn.
3. Family First Night at Mount Seymour
Image Courtesy of Mount Seymour Resorts
One of Vancouver's closest snow sports resorts, Mount Seymour is also home to one of the top all-ages New Year's Eve events in Vancouver. Family First Night at Mount Seymour includes an open Snowplay area, tubing and tobogganing, holiday music, hot apple cider and s'mores, fireworks, and an early countdown at 9pm.
4. First Night at Whistler Village - FREE & Ticketed
Image Courtesy of Tourism Whistler
Whistler's annual First Night has changed from previous years to include both free and ticketed events. The New Year's Eve celebrations are still alcohol-free and open to all ages. Free events include the "legendary" Fire and Ice Show and a midnight fireworks display. Ticketed events include family entertainment, music, arts, crafts, food, dancing and ice skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza.
