Family Friendly Fun for New Years in Austin Texas

True to its mantra, Keep Austin Weird, few New Years Eve events rival that of the arts, live music and entertainment celebrations that take place in and around Austin, Texas on New Year's Eve. As the State Capital, proud home of the University of Texas at Austin, as well as the headquarters for numerous high tech firms, festivities are abundant in and around the city that blend together a unique conglomerate of artistic talents, interests and family fun.

Hotels are plentiful throughout the city, but they do tend to fill up prior to big night celebrations such as New Year's Eve so make sure you make your reservations well in advance. Once in town, spend the day enjoying Texas history at museums like the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum or the Texas State Capitol or take a leisurely walk along Lady Bird Lake on the beautiful hike and bike trails. Don't forget to enjoy the many tremendous restaurants that offer a tantalizing variety of cuisine. Satisfy your pallet from the finest in Texas Barbecue, casual Tex-Mex, and Fine Dining establishments within walking distance from the center of the New Year's Eve festivities.

Among the many family-friendly events that are scattered around the city, the best part of spending the last night of 2009 in Austin is that it can all be planned for you. Join in the day-long activities, arts, entertainment and fireworks with the fifth annual, First Night Austin. This is a family-friendly, non-alcoholic celebration that highlights the many wonderful talents and treasures of the Capital city.

The fun begins at 3:00pm in downtown Austin and features a great number of venues and entertainment opportunities. Take in the many sights and sounds that extend from the Capital Building, down Congress Avenue and extending along Cesar Chavez all the way to Auditorium Shores on Riverside Drive. Find a place along the parade route at 6:00 for The Statesman Grand Procession and Resolution Finale, then venture over to Auditorium Shores for the entertainment packed evening program. Before the clock strikes midnight, join the crowd at 11:45pm for the AT&T Grand Finale and Fireworks.

Just remember to plan ahead for weather and traffic. Although there are a number of parking areas and garages available, parking is limited. Event organizers strongly suggest utilizing the Capital Metro bus services. You'll never forget the memories you help create with your family as you welcome in 2010 in downtown Austin, Texas.