Fun Family Ideas to Ring in the New Year in New York City

It seems like the hardest thing to do, these days, is find something the you can do on New Year's Eve with your kids, especially in New York City. Well, I managed to find some things that families can do to ring in the new year together in the Big Apple.

If you're looking for something that is sure to give your kids a fun start to their new year, look no further than the Bronx Zoo. Kids can walk around the zoo at night, enjoying more than half a million lights, as well as giant, lighted animal, dinosaur and holiday sculptures. Make your way through the Butterfly Garden, following the children's classic, The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Take a ride on the Bug Carousel. Enjoy tasty treats, including hot soup, candy apples and make-your-own S'mores. There is story telling at the Children's Zoo Theater. At the Dancing Crane Plaza, enjoy ice carving demonstrations. There are costumed characters and stilt dancers and live performances. And, of course, the kids can always visit the animals. For more information, visit the Bronx Zoo online at

If the zoo isn't your thing, why not hit Central Park? You can take a carriage ride through the park for a classic New York experience. Check out the costumes at the Midnight Run Costume Contest and Dance Party at the Central Park Bandshell, just south of the 72^nd Street Transverse. Then, stop off at Belvedere Castle, where you can ring in the new year by having fun at the dance party and watching an amazing fireworks display. There will be some vendors, but your best bet is bringing your own food and drink to share with the family. Don't forget your noise makers, party hats and wacky New Year's outfits. The best thing about the celebrations at Central Park? They're FREE! For more info on celebrating the dawn of 2008 in Central Park, go to

As always, parents should always keep their child's safety in mind. This idea is even more important when going out at night. So, here are 5 simple safety tips that will come in handy:

#1 - Dress your kids warm. It is winter, after all.

#2 - Make an ID card that can be attached to their coat or worn like a necklace, just in case they get lost. Include their name, your name and your cell phone number.

#3 - To increase you child's visibility, try to make sure they wear a light colors.

#4 - Tie a glow stick to your kid's coat. That will make it easier to spot them in the dark.

#5 - Give your child a whistle to wear around their neck. This will allow them to be heard in a crowd.

#6 - Last, but definitely not least... Go over the usual rules with your kids, and make sure they know how to use their whistle.

And again... be safe, be prepared and have fun.http://bronxzoo.com/bz-whatshappening/holiday_lights/46633422 . http://www.centralpark.com/ .