It’s almost time to say goodbye
To the time of 2012
Let’s look ahead to the New Year
And make plans to better ourselves
Let’s bring the New Year in
With family and close friends
With those near to your heart
That’s what I recommend
For those of you that have kids
Please do not hesitate
To check out these fun ways
Your family can celebrate
First Night Tacoma
This downtown event is described as “a celebration of the arts fueled by the spirit of creativity, friendship and the pure joy of being alive” by Tacoma’s theater district. Daily activities start at 10am and include ice skating as well as visiting the Tacoma Museum of Glass and Children’s Museum of Tacoma. At 6pm the evening activities start with the Last Mile Fun Run followed by a parade. As the parade ends, guest will enjoy music, dance, glee, excitement, and magic on 20 different stages and areas until midnight. Get your admission button for $10.00 before December 31st because on the day of the event the button is $14.00. Kids ages 10 and younger get in for free.
More information: http://www.firstnighttacoma.org/
Polar Bear Plunge
Join this New Year’s Day tradition at Point Defiance Boat Launch. Those that dare can go knee high, waist deep, or take the full plunge into Puget Sound to kick off the New Year. Costumes are encouraged but not required. Participants will be able to warm up with heaters and warm beverages after jumping. The cub plunge for children ages 10 years old and younger will start at 11:30 in the morning and everyone else will jump at noon. This event is free and participants will receive a Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium coupon good for $3 off general admission. To warm up prior to the plunge, participate in First Run, a flat one-mile run/walk near the Point Defiance Marina. First Run is free and begins at 11 am. No registration is necessary.
More information: http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/calendar/?cid=1631&park_id=11
Noon Year’s Eve
The Hands On Children’s Museum in Olympia would like to invite you and your family to this New Year’s Eve event from 10am to 3pm. Guests will experience museum activities such as painting with light, riding a light-up bike, “Glow Science” demos, and more. There will be a big ball drop at noon and there will be plenty of noisemakers and ribbon streamers to go around. Dessert is provided and the Museum Café will be open during this event if you would like to purchase lunch or a snack. Admission cost $12.00 for children that are members and $15.00 for non-members. Admission cost $4.00 for all accompanying adults.
More information: http://www.hocm.org/page.php?id=413