Party With the Fam

New Year’s celebrations offer fun for the whole gang

Emily Kinzel, photos by Kelly Whitman |

The balloon drop at the Indoor Sports Center.
The balloon drop at the Indoor Sports Center.

For one day out of the year, people around the world throw parties with confetti, champagne, and screenings of the ball dropping in Times Square to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. However, for those who have procreated, a New Year’s celebration requires different forms of entertainment. Eau Claire is home to several family-friendly seasonal celebrations. Royal Credit Union has partnered with the Eau Claire Indoor Sports Center to host a party for all ages on Saturday, Dec. 30, from 5-9pm. The event, which costs $5 per person older than two, will feature beats spun by a DJ, games, prizes, and inflatables. Limo rides will be available before the final balloon drop at 8:30pm. If you’re looking for more action to tire the tots out the next day, Action City is hosting its annual New Year’s Eve Lock-In on Sunday, Dec. 31, beginning at 11pm. Admission is $25 per person. Go-karts, a climbing wall, laser tag, unlimited play on non-ticket arcade games, and trampoline dodge ball are on the itinerary. Come wearing your brightest colors to enjoy the blacklit trampoline park. To keep everyone fueled for the long night, a pizza buffet and bottomless fountain sodas will be provided.

Go-Kart in the new year at Action City's Lock-In event.
Go-Kart in the new year at Action City's Lock-In event.