As 2025 draws to a close, Dallas and the surrounding areas come alive with a wide range of events designed to help families welcome 2026 in style. From lively city celebrations to cozy, kid-friendly gatherings, the Dallas-Fort Worth area offers countless opportunities for people of all ages to create lasting memories together. Whether you’re seeking dazzling fireworks, interactive activities for children, festive live entertainment, or unique ways to countdown to the New Year, there’s something for every family and every schedule.
Imagine the excitement of watching the spectacular Lone Star NYE fireworks light up the skyline at Reunion Tower, or spending the afternoon sliding and splashing at a waterpark event that lets kids celebrate on their own timetable. Many venues are curating early-evening festivities, so families can enjoy the fun without staying up until midnight, perfect for little ones who still need their bedtime routine.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best New Year’s Eve events across Dallas-Fort Worth, featuring everything from interactive shows, live music, and festive dining to hands-on crafts and playful activities for toddlers and teens alike. Whether you’re planning a high-energy day of adventure or a calm, early celebration, these events promise unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Let’s explore the top ways to ring in 2026 and make this New Year’s Eve truly magical for the whole family.
Noon Year’s Eve” at Cedar Hill Library
Traphene Hickman Library Multipurpose Room
450 Pioneer Trl
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
If you’re looking for a cheerful way to mark the end of 2025 with little ones, the Traphene Hickman Library in Cedar Hill is hosting its annual Noon Year’s Eve Program on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. This free, family‑friendly celebration invites children and their caregivers to enjoy stories, music, and an early countdown to 2026, perfect for families who want to join in the fun without staying up until midnight.
Held in the library’s multipurpose room beginning at 11:15 AM, the event features performances by entertainer David Chicken, lively dancing, and storytelling that keeps kids engaged and excited. At the heart of the program is a cheerful midday countdown to the new year, complete with all the party energy a child‑friendly celebration can offer.
“Last year, my niece and nephew attended the Cedar Hill Library’s Noon Year’s Eve, and they couldn’t stop talking about David Chicken’s performance for days! The early countdown allowed them to enjoy the excitement without missing their bedtime, and as a parent, I loved seeing their faces light up with joy.”
The celebration takes place at 450 Pioneer Trail in Cedar Hill, where the library regularly offers programs and activities that bring the community together, from storytimes and art projects to special seasonal events.
What to enjoy:
- Early New Year’s countdown and celebration
- Live entertainment and dancing with David Chicken
- Fun stories and activities for kids of all ages
- No cost to attend; families welcome
Whether you’re continuing holiday traditions or trying something new this year, Cedar Hill Library’s Noon Year’s Eve program is a delightful way for families to ring in 2026 before lunchtime, and without the late nights. cedarhilllibrary.org/Calendar.aspx
Reunion Tower New Year’s Celebration
Reunion Tower
300 Reunion Blvd East
Dallas, TX 75207
Reunion Tower, in partnership with Hunt Realty Investments, Inc., is set to celebrate the arrival of 2026 with the ninth annual Lone Star NYE fireworks show in Dallas, Texas. This highly anticipated Texas-sized New Year’s Eve Dallas Event will take place on December 31, 2025, at exactly 11:59 p.m., lighting up the downtown Dallas skyline in a breathtaking display. The celebration will feature over 5,000 pyrotechnic special effects launched from the iconic Reunion Tower, creating a spectacular visual experience that will captivate the crowd.
In addition to the fireworks, the tower will be adorned with a stunning 259-LED light display, synchronized perfectly with the pyrotechnics to enhance the overall spectacle. A cutting-edge drone light show will also take to the skies, adding another layer of excitement to this unforgettable event. Together, these elements will combine to create a dazzling, multi-sensory experience that attendees will remember long after the clock strikes midnight.
“One of my favorite New Year’s memories was standing near Reunion Tower with my family, watching the Lone Star NYE fireworks. The lights and synchronized drone show were breathtaking, and even my younger cousin, who’s usually scared of crowds, couldn’t take his eyes off the sky!”
The Lone Star NYE fireworks show has become a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors, drawing crowds from across the city and beyond. As one of the largest and most impressive New Year’s Eve events in Texas, it promises to deliver an exciting, family-friendly celebration that showcases the vibrant energy and spirit of Dallas. Whether you’re viewing from the base of Reunion Tower or from other vantage points throughout downtown, this extraordinary event will mark the start of the new year in the most spectacular way possible. reuniontower.com/things-to-do/new-years-eve/
Early vs. Late Events List
Morning / Noon Events (Kid-Friendly)
- Cedar Hill Library Noon Year’s Eve (11:15 AM)
- Dallas Arboretum Noon-Years Eve Celebration (12:00 PM)
- Sci-Tech Discovery Center Countdown to Noon (timed tickets)
Afternoon / Evening Events
- Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark Family New Year (1:00 PM – 1:00 AM)
- Main Event When The Clock Strikes Fun (2:00–6:00 PM)
- Dave & Buster’s New Years (4:00–7:00 PM)
- Corona Stage & Lawn 2026 NYE Bash (6:00–10:00 PM)
Late-Night / Midnight Events
- Lone Star NYE Fireworks at Reunion Tower (11:59 PM)
Noon-Years Eve Celebration
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden
8525 Garland Rd.
Dallas, Texas 75218
Bid farewell to 2025 and usher in 2026 in a fun-filled, family-friendly celebration at the Children’s Adventure Garden! This special Noon Year’s Eve event offers all the excitement of ringing in the New Year without the late-night hours. The festivities will include an exhilarating ball drop, a lively bubble dance party, and a variety of interactive winter STEM activities designed to entertain and inspire young minds.
The highlight of the day will be the official Noon Year’s Eve countdown and ball drop, taking place promptly at 12 p.m. (noon) in the Entry Plaza. It’s the perfect way for families to enjoy the thrill of a New Year’s celebration during the day, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
In addition to the ball drop, children and their families can explore hands-on science experiments, craft winter-themed projects, and enjoy the beauty of the season in the garden’s unique setting. With so much to see and do, this event promises to be a memorable way to celebrate the new year with loved ones. Bring the whole family out for this exciting, one-of-a-kind experience at the Children’s Adventure Garden! We can’t wait to see you there for a day full of joy, discovery, and New Year’s cheer. dallasarboretum.org/event/noon-years-eve/
New Year’s Eve Countdown to Noon Party
Sci-Tech Discovery Center
8004 North Dallas Parkway,
Frisco, TX 75034
This New Year’s Eve, Sci-Tech Discovery Center is bringing together the excitement of science and play with their highly anticipated Countdown to Noon event, designed for young minds eager to ring in 2026 with hands-on learning and fun. This family-friendly event will be packed with interactive science activities that will both entertain and educate children as they explore the wonders of the natural world.
Guests will be treated to dynamic stage shows that dive into fascinating topics like combustion, liquid nitrogen, chemistry, and air pressure. These live demonstrations will captivate children while teaching them about the scientific principles behind everyday phenomena. In addition to the stage shows, attendees can participate in a variety of engaging, hands-on science experiments that will spark their curiosity and allow them to experience science firsthand.
The event will also feature face painting and balloon twisting, ensuring that kids can unleash their creativity while celebrating. For those with an interest in technology and innovation, there will be coding workshops and maker challenges, offering the chance to explore the world of programming and problem-solving. And of course, the excitement will reach a peak with three massive balloon drops that will fill the space with colorful fun.
Timed tickets are required for the event, with admission priced at $12 for members and $15 for non-members. The Countdown to Noon event promises to be an unforgettable way for families to celebrate the New Year together in a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to give your child an exciting start to 2026! mindstretchingfun.org
Epic Family New Year!
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark
2970 Epic Place
Grand Prairie, TX 75052
For families who want a full day of excitement, the Epic Family New Year celebration offers 12 straight hours of fun, running from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM on December 31. It’s a high-energy way to send off 2025 and welcome 2026, blending nonstop entertainment with the thrill of Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark.
Guests can enjoy lively DJ sets, dazzling circus-style performances, and interactive games throughout the day. With more than $10,000 in prizes up for grabs, every moment feels like a celebration. Plus, the beloved Epic Duck Drop gives families multiple chances to join a countdown, ideal for kids who can’t stay up until midnight but still want to feel part of the magic.
“A few years ago, my kids spent the afternoon at Epic Waters for the Family New Year celebration. They loved the multiple duck drop countdowns, especially the one in the afternoon when we all joined together for a mini celebration. Seeing them laugh and splash while still getting home at a reasonable hour made it the perfect way to welcome the new year!”
Since the event takes place inside the waterpark, all regular attractions stay open, meaning families can mix festive fun with slides, waves, and lazy river relaxation. It’s a celebration that feels part party, part adventure.
Highlights include:
- Live DJs and engaging entertainment
- Spectacular circus performances
- Family games and hands-on activities
- Multiple early-evening duck drop countdowns
- Full access to slides, pools, and water attractions
- Over $10,000 in prize giveaways
Whether you’re staying for a few hours or making it all the way to the final countdown, this is a New Year’s Eve that promises unforgettable family memories. epicwatersgp.com/special-events/
When The Clock Strikes Fun!
Main Event
Various Dallas Locations
Families looking for an exciting way to celebrate before the midnight rush can head to Main Event for the “When the Clock Strikes FUN” Family New Year’s Eve Celebration. This upbeat afternoon event delivers four hours of nonstop entertainment, making it the perfect place for kids and adults to welcome 2026 together.
Running from 2:00 to 6:00 PM on December 31, the celebration turns the entire venue into a playground of games, prizes, food, and surprises. Guests can take advantage of unlimited activities, from classic bowling to arcade favorites, giving families the freedom to explore and play at their own pace. Special food combos and crowd-pleasing bites keep everyone fueled, while the festive atmosphere makes the event feel like a party from start to finish.
Event Highlights:
- Unlimited family activities throughout the venue
- Fun food combos and tasty bites available during the event
- VIP raffles with exciting prizes
- A chance to win Free Laser Tag for a Year
- Games, entertainment, and surprises for all ages
One of the biggest draws of the afternoon is the series of VIP raffles, offering families the chance to win exciting prizes, including the standout reward of “Free Laser Tag for a Year.” With entertainment happening throughout the venue and surprises popping up along the way, the experience is designed to keep kids engaged and parents relaxed. If your family wants a lively, stress-free way to kick off the new year, Main Event’s NYE Bash delivers big fun long before the clock strikes midnight. mainevent.com
2026 New Year’s Eve Bash
Corona Stage & Lawn
5752 Grandscape Blvd
The Colony, TX 75056
Who says the party has to wait until midnight? This New Year’s Eve, skip the late-night chaos and ring in 2026 in style, early! Join us at the Corona Stage & Lawn on Wednesday, December 31, from 6:00–10:00 PM for a unique celebration that lets you enjoy all the fun without staying out until the ball drops. Perfect for families, early birds, or anyone who just wants a good time, this event delivers excitement while still letting you beat the traffic, or head home for a cozy night’s sleep.
From live music to delicious food, there’s something for everyone. The evening kicks off with DJ Shaun spinning tunes, followed by an energetic performance from the Jordan Kahn Orchestra. Guests can also enjoy a variety of fun activities, including glitter and face painting stations, airbrush tattoos, and plenty of photo opportunities to capture the start of 2026.
Whether you’re making Grandscape the main event or just stopping by on your way to other festivities, this New Year’s Eve celebration offers entertainment, treats, and memories to last long after the clock strikes midnight.
The best part? Admission is completely free! Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the show from our expansive lawn. Please note, outside alcohol and coolers are not allowed. Check the event FAQ for more details. grandscape.com/event/2026-new-years-eve-bash/2025-12-31/
New Years at D&B
Dave & Buster’s Dallas
9450 N Central Expy
Dallas, TX 75231
If your family wants a lively New Year’s Eve celebration without staying out late, Dave & Buster’s Dallas offers the perfect mix of arcade energy, great food, and early-evening excitement. Their Family-Friendly NYE event, running from 4:00–7:00 PM, lets kids and adults enjoy a big celebration while still getting home before midnight.
Guests are welcomed into a festive atmosphere where the buzz of arcade games blends with the feel of a night out. Families can enjoy a chef-curated banquet featuring favorite bites like mini pretzel dogs, churros, and other signature dishes. Unlimited soft drinks and kid-friendly toasts keep the fun going, and adults can enjoy specialty cocktails available for purchase.
A $20 Power Card and unlimited video game play give everyone a chance to dive into hundreds of arcade games, simulators, and prize challenges throughout the evening. As the celebration builds, families can join together for an early video ball drop countdown, complete with party favors and a ginger-ale toast to welcome 2026.
Event Highlights:
- Early celebration from 4:00–7:00 PM, perfect for kids
- Unlimited arcade gaming + included Power Card
- Chef-curated buffet with popular D&B dishes
- Family countdown with a video ball drop and party favors
- Festive, all-ages atmosphere with food, games, and drinks
- ADA-compliant venue for accessible fun
Dave & Buster’s keeps the atmosphere upbeat, energetic, and suitable for all ages, making it a great option for families who want a memorable celebration without the midnight chaos. Dave & Buster’s makes it easy to ring in 2026 with energy, laughter, and plenty of games, all before bedtime. daveandbusters.com/us/en/holidaydeals/new-years-at-dave-and-busters
Event Highlights Snapshot (Visual List Style)
- Activities: Dancing, DJ sets, waterpark fun, crafts, coding workshops
- Prizes / Giveaways: VIP raffles, duck drop prizes, $10,000+ at Epic Waters
- Food: Buffet, kid-friendly treats, snack combos at Main Event
- Countdowns: Noon countdowns for kids, midnight fireworks for all ages
- Special Features: Fireworks, drone light shows, LED displays, science demos
Dallas-Fort Worth Family New Year’s Eve FAQs: Tips, Tickets, and Kid-Friendly Celebrations
What events are best for families with very young children?
Events like the Cedar Hill Library Noon Year’s Eve, Dallas Arboretum Noon-Years Eve, and Sci-Tech Discovery Center Countdown to Noon are perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. They feature early countdowns, interactive activities, and kid-friendly entertainment.
Are there any free New Year’s Eve events in Dallas-Fort Worth?
Yes! The Cedar Hill Library Noon Year’s Eve, Reunion Tower fireworks viewing from public areas, and the Corona Stage & Lawn 2026 NYE Bash are free to attend.
Do I need tickets for all the events?
Not all events require tickets. For example, Reunion Tower’s fireworks can be viewed from nearby public areas, and the Corona Stage & Lawn bash is free. However, Sci-Tech Discovery Center, Epic Waters, and some Main Event locations require tickets or reservations.
Which events are best for staying out later or for older kids?
Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark’s Family New Year and Reunion Tower’s fireworks are ideal for families with older kids who can stay up later. Epic Waters offers activities until 1:00 AM for teens and adults.
Are these events accessible for strollers and people with mobility needs?
Most venues, including Dave & Buster’s, Main Event, and the Dallas Arboretum, are ADA-compliant. It’s always good to check the individual event websites for specific accessibility details.
Can we bring our own food or drinks to these events?
Policies vary by venue. For example, outside alcohol and coolers are not allowed at the Corona Stage & Lawn, while some indoor events may permit small snacks for children. Check each event’s website for their food/drink policies.
Celebrate the New Year with Family Fun and Festivities
No matter how your family likes to celebrate, Dallas-Fort Worth offers a New Year’s Eve experience for every pace and preference. From dazzling fireworks and interactive play zones to early-evening parties for little ones, there are countless ways to make joyful memories. Many events are designed with families in mind, letting kids fully enjoy the fun while parents relax and take it all in.
Beyond the celebrations themselves, these gatherings are a chance to connect with your community, share laughs, and introduce children to experiences they’ll remember for years. Whether it’s a playful waterpark splash, a lively music performance, hands-on crafts, or a simple countdown with loved ones, every moment can be special.
As you plan your New Year’s Eve, embrace the festive spirit of Dallas-Fort Worth and try something new or continue a beloved tradition. With so many options, your family is sure to find the perfect way to welcome 2026 with laughter, excitement, and togetherness. Here’s to a happy, safe, and unforgettable New Year’s Eve!
