Family-Friendly 2010 New Year's Eve Events in Chicago

New Year's celebrations are not for adults only -anymore. Around the Chicago metropolitan area, large and small venues, alike are hosting festivities as a prelude to the countdown. From ice-skating, concerts, and inflatable parties, the little ones have a bevy of exciting party options.

Navy Pier, Chicago. New Year's Eve is free at Navy Pier. Live performances by The Goblins, World Champion Double Dutch Team, Full Effect Theatrical Dance, as well as interactive presentations begin in Navy Pier's festival hall at 6 PM. Following the event, an "early special" pyrotechnics show takes place dockside at 8:15 PM.

Date and Time: December 31, 2009 - 6PM - 8:30PM

Location: Navy Pier

Address: 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago, IL 60611

Web Site: Navy PIer

TopGolf, Wood Dale, IL. Accommodating the entire family, Top Golf USA is putting on a New Year's bash in Wood Dale. The party includes overnight stay at the Doubletree Hotel on Mittel Avenue, a dinner buffet of American favorites (mini-sized -hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken sandwiches, baked macaroni & cheese), unlimited alcohol-free beverages, games and party favors and more. (The cost is $120 for a family of four).

Location: TopGolf-Wood Dale

Address: 699 W Thorndale Ave.

Wood Dale, IL 60091

Web Site: TopGolf USA

At Pump It Up Chicago, New Year's celebration kicks off at 3 PM and goes until 5PM. Kids have a bouncing good time, dancing and blowing bubbles. Provisions include the basics in party fare pizza, beverages and dessert.

Day and Time: December 31, 2009 3 PM to 5PM

Location: Pump It Up Chicago

Address: 821 W Eastman

Web Site: http://piunewyears.eventbrite.com

At Chicago's Wrigley Field (actually outside the ballpark), ice-skating rink serves as family time, holiday fun exercise -- all in one. On New Year's eve, the rink is open from 2 PM until 10 PM. Admission is $10 dollars for adults, $6 for children and does not include skate rental.

Day and Time: December 31, 2009 2 PM to 10PM

Location: Wrigley Field

Address: Addison and Clark

Web Site: http://www.rinkatwrigley.com/

Mesmerize the little ones with another free event at Chicago's Lincoln Park, Zoo Light Festival. New Year's eve is the last day of 2009 to take advantage of the zoo lights. From 5 to 8 PM, the sights, sounds and tastes of the holiday season are spectacular. Highlights include a musical light show, photo opportunities with Santa, craft creations and more. After dinner, let the kids countdown the New Year with the babysitter; and head to North Pond, a Chicago restaurant, situated just four blocks north of Lincoln Park's zoo lights.