Hey there, festive families! Are you looking for a way to ring in the New Year with a bona fide family-friendly bash in Ontario, California? Sparklers, countdowns, and resolutions, oh my! Whether you’re a local or passing through, Ontario has a host of wholesome attractions that can make your New Year’s Eve sparkle with joy and merriment.

Get the Party Started with Local Events

Lively local events can be the cherry on top of your festive plans. Ontario is teeming with events to suit every family’s taste and budget. Check out what the town has to offer! From grooving at the local music festival to a dazzling fireworks display, your family is sure to find something thrilling.

• Annual New Year’s Eve Grape Drop: This unique celebration is perfect for families looking to experience something different. It’s like the ball drop in Times Square but with a local twist – a glistening bunch of grapes making its descent as the clock strikes twelve! The event often includes live entertainment, activities for kids, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
• New Year’s Eve at the Ontario Town Square: Enjoy the holiday excitement with a gathering at the town square. Festive lights and decorations set the scene for a night of music, local food vendors, and interactive activities for all ages.

Home Sweet Home Celebrations

If a cozy night in is more your speed, Ontario doesn’t disappoint. There’s no place like home to enjoy some warm, family-oriented celebrations:

• Create a NYE Time Capsule: Gather the family to create a time capsule! Reflect on the year’s most memorable moments by adding photos, mementoes, or letters to your future selves. Then decide on a distant New Year’s Eve to open it up and reminisce.
• DIY Balloon Countdown: Blow up balloons and write different times on them. Pop a balloon when each hour passes, leading up to midnight. Inside each balloon, place a slip of paper with a fun activity or challenge for the family—get creative!

Family-Friendly Dining

No New Year’s Eve is complete without some scrumptious eats! If you’re in the mood to dine out, Ontario boasts a plethora of family-friendly restaurants that offer delicious meals and a festive atmosphere:

• Market Broiler: Enjoy a hearty meal with your loved ones at this beloved seafood destination. With a festive ambiance and a menu sure to please everyone, it’s a great place to share laughter and good times as you count down to the New Year.
• Ontario Improv: Looking for dinner with a side of laughs? The Ontario Improv offers a special New Year’s Eve event where families can enjoy a comedy show along with a meal that’s bound to tickle those taste buds and funny bones alike.

For an at-home dining adventure, consider cooking a family-favorite recipe together or trying something new that could become an annual tradition. Share stories and plans for the coming year as you feast upon your New Year’s Eve creations.

Prepare for the Festivities: 5 Things Every Parent Should Know

Excited to bid farewell to the year and greet a fresh one with your lovely kiddos? Here are five golden nuggets of wisdom to ensure a smooth and delightful New Year’s Eve in Ontario, California:

1. Plan Ahead: Ontario’s New Year’s Eve events can be quite popular, so it’s wise to check event details, make reservations, or purchase tickets in advance. Also, remember to plan your transportation—whether you’re driving or booking a ride, it’s crucial to secure a safe and reliable way to get back home after the celebrations.
2. Dress Appropriately: Late December can get chilly, especially if you’re out and about at night. Ensure your family is decked out in warm attire suitable for the weather so everyone can enjoy the outdoor events without the shivers.
3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local news or social media for any last-minute changes to event schedules or locations. It’s also a great way to discover any additional activities you might want to include in your night.
4. Set Expectations: Discuss with your children what the evening will entail, including staying up until midnight (if that’s in the plan). The anticipation will build excitement, and preparing them for the night’s schedule will help keep things running smoothly.
5. Be Safety-Conscious: Public events can get crowded, so it’s essential to keep an eye on each other. Share safety tips with your kids, such as staying close, spotting security personnel, and knowing what to do if they get separated from you.