The celebratory balloon drop at high noon on Dec. 31 is always a highlight of the Family New Year’s Eve Party at the Vaughan Athletic Center – and a great photo opportunity. (CREDIT: Fox Valley Park District)

Families and children can start their New Year’s Eve activities early with a celebration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 31, at the Vaughan Athletic Center.

The Family New Year’s Eve Party will ring in 2017 with a variety of festivities. Kids and adults can get energetic while climbing and bouncing on giant inflatables, playing interactive games, competing in hula hoop contests and dancing to the latest tunes with a live DJ.

Popular features also include the “Active Toddler Zone,” a “Meet-and-Greet” with favorite characters including Spider-Man, Tinkerbell, Storm Trooper, Elsa, Cinderella and others and the traditional New Year’s countdown featuring a colossal balloon drop at noon.

“This event gives kids their own celebration,” said youth programs supervisor Stevie Michell. “It’s a great way for families and friends to enjoy a New Year’s party that’s convenient and fun for everybody.”

Guests are encouraged to pre-register by noon on Dec. 30 to guarantee admission, party favors, activities and snack. Advance tickets are $8 per person (ages 2 and up) and available online. Children under 2 get in free. Day-of registration costs $11 per person, but the event often sells out; party favors and snacks are not guaranteed for those who register on event day.

For more information, call the Vaughan Athletic Center at 630-907-9600 and follow updates on the Vaughan Center’s Facebook page.

SOURCE: Fox Valley Park District news release

About the Fox Valley Park District

The Fox Valley Park District is a dynamic and growing park district that serves a diverse population of more than 233,000 people. Recognized as an Illinois Distinguished Agency, Fox Valley holds the nation’s highest honor as a National Gold Medal Award winner for excellence in park and recreation management. Serving the communities of Aurora, Montgomery and North Aurora, the district maintains 165 parks and 48 miles of interconnected regional trails amid 2,500 acres of parkland. Connected by the Fox River, communities are tied together by the district’s commitment to promote vibrant, healthy lifestyles through fun and safe recreation opportunities that are environmentally and fiscally responsible. The Fox Valley Park District… Where Fun Begins!