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Unique York County & Surrounding Area New Years Eve Celebrations

By Sarah Frane Macaroni Kid York December 12, 2023

Looking for a fun way to spend this New Year's Eve? Look no further than this list of family-friendly unique area drops that are sure to entertain the whole family. 


Chambersburg

Join us and Martin's Famous Potato Rolls for a New Year's Eve drop in Downtown Chambersburg on December 31st! The event starts at 5 PM. Ring the New Year in at 9 PM!

Location: Chambers Fort Park 40 Spring St, Chambersburg, PA

More details will be available here soon. 



Gettysburg

Children of Gettysburg 1863®Noon Year's Eve Countdown
Visit Gettysburg's most family-friendly, interactive children's history museum during the day on New Year's Eve in downtown Gettysburg.  Join us for a fun "Noon Year's Eve" party. Bring in the new year with live music, snacks, crafts and family fun.  
Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Tickets are required to experience the children's history museum adventure. Children/Youth (ages 0-12) free with purchase of an adult (ages 13+) ticket.
GET YOUR MUSEUM ADVENTURE TICKETS

Lincoln Square  NYE Celebration
Join your community on Lincoln Square for music and NYE celebration. December 31 at 9pm This year, Gettysburg Pride and Gettysburg Alive have elected to turn the square into a dance party rather than continuing with the fireworks display from years past.  There will  also be vendors, and family activities and we will Raise Abe's NEW Hat at 12:00am.

An event of this size requires some traffic management so road closures to all vehicular traffic which includes Lincoln Square and one block adjacent to the Square: Chambersburg St. at Washington St., Carlisle St. at Railroad St., York St. at Stratton St., Baltimore St. at Middle St.  Roads reopen at 1 a.m. on January 1, 2024.




On Sunday, December 31, 2023 the City of Harrisburg will host the annual New Year’s Eve Celebration featuring the strawberry drop and fireworks at midnight along 2nd Street. There will also be a Kid’s Glow Party sponsored by Capital Blue Cross featuring a glow balloon drop, face painting, balloon animals, crafts, snacks, and more starting at 9pm inside City Hall. Kids should wear their brightest neon and white to glow under the blacklights!

Also be sure to check explorehbg.com/NYE for a list of NYE dining specials, parties, family events, and more happening throughout the City. Details on all offerings will be added to the webpage as they are confirmed with local businesses so check back often.

ROAD CLOSURES: 2nd Street will be closed from Chestnut to Walnut Street starting at 6pm.

PARKING: the Market Square Garage is $10 from 7pm-5am courtesy of Park Harrisburg. Downtown street parking is free after 5pm.



Hershey

Hershey New Year’s Eve returns for its 19th year with a full celebration.

Hershey New Year’s Eve is a FREE, family-friendly event planned and staffed by community volunteers and fully funded by its generous sponsors, including Platinum level sponsors - Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, The Hershey Company, WINK 104, HOT 106.7 Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. - HRG, Penn State Health and Highmark.

The main stage entertainment kicks off at 9:00 pm with Fully Stocked and Daddy-O and the Sax Maniax. At 11:59, MC Denny Logan (WNNK 104.1) and the HERSHEY’s Characters will count down to the HERSHEY’S Kiss raise. Then, downtown revelers will enjoy the second annual laser and pyrotechnics display.
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Schedule of Events:
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM: Celebrate the New Year throughout the day at The Hershey Story. Kids can make noise with the Hershey product characters as they countdown to the new year with bubble wrap stomps at: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM

7:30-8:30 PM: Watch local groups perform family-friendly dance, music, and theatrical numbers in ChocolateTown Square.

8:30-9:00 PM: Join the HERSHEY's Characters for a dance party followed by the final bubble wrap stomp countdown in ChocolateTown Square.

8:00 PM-midnight: Food vendors available in Chocolatetown Square

9:00-10:00 PM: Fully Stocked on the main stage at Chocolate Ave and Cocoa Ave

10:30-11:55 PM: Daddy-O and the Sax Maniax on the main stage

11:59 PM: Countdown begins! Followed by the Kiss Raise
Midnight: Downtown revelers will enjoy an immersive display!

For more info visit the website



Lancaster

Family Party at Laserdome

Join us as we ring in the new year Laserdome USA style - with a Laser Countdown, Party Hats, Noise Makers, Leis, Balloons, Dome Dance party and so much more!
Dec. 31st, 8pm through Jan. 1st, 1:00am

Click here for tickets 

Dutch Winter Wonderland

'Tis the season to make new family memories at Dutch Winter Wonderland.  Enjoy 10 new activities that make this award-winning holiday event more festive than ever. Dutch Winter Wonderland is open select dates from November 18, 2023-January 1, 2024.

Click here for tickets

 

Eden Resort New Year's Eve Party

Celebrate New Year's Eve in style at the Eden Resort & Suites. They will be  are hosting two parties:

Elegant Eve Gala in The Courtyard, featuring a live band from New York City
Dance the Year Away Party in Crystal Ballroom with a DJ



Mechanicsburg

The result of an Eagle Scout project by Mechanicsburg Area School District graduate Sheldon Rodgers, this small town west of Harrisburg dropped its first wrench on New Year’s Eve in 2004. The galvanized steel wrench commemorates the borough’s founders — mechanics who settled in the area to make and repair wagons that were traveling west after crossing the Susquehanna River in the early 19th century. The town celebrates the New Year from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. with the annual drop of a wrench in front of the Washington Fire Company at 53 E. Main St.

Click here for full details and the event scheduled 



York County 

3rd Annual New Year's Eve Countdown 

Join your friends at Titanium Athletics for the 3rd Annual New Year's Eve Noon Countdown!
Activities for the day will include:
Ninja, Climbing, Bounce Houses, Gaga Ball,
Crafts, Photo Booth, Balloon Drop, Party Props, and more!
Cost: $25 per child

Registration is required and can be done in person, or online here. 


Burning Bridge Tavern

By popular demand, Y2Kids is bringing the 2000s party back to the Burning Bridge! Come hear the dopest 2000s hits, from N*Sync to Simple Plan, from Lady Gaga to Green Day, and all the best one-hit wonders in between!

Music Starts at 8pm 

21 years  and up event 


Capt Bob's Crabs2nd Annual New Year’s Eve Bash!

Join us for our 2nd Annual New Year’s Eve Bash! “New and Improved!” This year we’re starting at 4pm for your convenience! Live Music the entire time provided by the wonderful Kirk Wise! New menu items are in the works to join our current favorites! It’s never too early to plan for the holidays so be sure to RSVP for reminders closer to the date! Thank you!

As always we are BYOB!

Not a ticketed event. 

A special menu will be provided and each item is priced separately.

Reservations: Each Reservation will be for a 2hr time slot. If you have a large party and would like a longer time slot please let us know when placing your reservation. There will be a 15min grace period for late arrivals. Please call ahead if you will not make it for your selected time and we will do our best to accommodate your party! Please note we will NOT accept reservations through Google or any other online reservation service. Please call in to reserve.


Curious Little Playhouse New Year's Eve Parties  

The Curious Little Playhouse is throwing THREE epic New Year's Eve parties just for the kiddos on December 31st!

Each party will have its own countdown and balloon toss. Bluey will be attending every party, and kiddos will enjoy open play, dancing, cupcakes, and more!

Times: 

Party #1 - 10-12pm
Party #2 - 1-3pm
Party #3 - 4-6pm

Click here for tickets 


Colony Park Lanes 

Party #1 (4:30 PM - 7:00 PM)

Price Includes: 2 ½ hours of Glow Bowling, Rental Shoes, Music, Hot Dogs, BBQ Sandwiches, Chips, Pretzels, Soft Drinks and Party Favors!

Price $25 per person Maximum 6 bowlers per lane.  

Party #2 (7:30 PM - 10:00 PM)

Price Includes: 2 ½ hours of Glow Bowling, Rental Shoes, Music, Hot Dogs, BBQ Sandwiches, Chips, Pretzels, Soft Drinks and Party Favors! 

Price $30 per person Maximum 6 bowlers per lane.

Party #3 (10:30 PM - 1:00 AM)

Price Includes: 2 ½ hrs of Glow Bowling, Rental Shoes, Music, Hot & Cold Buffet, Soft Drinks, Party Favors and A Champagne Toast at Midnight!

Price $35 per person  Maximum 6 bowlers per lane. 

Click here for full and to make your reservation 


Dillsburg

NEW for 2023 “Baby Pickle Drop”

Join us  at Dillsburg Elementary School's “Baby Pickle Drop” from 4:30 to 8:00 and celebrate the new year by donating to our blood drive. 

Dillsburg Elementary School is located at 202 S Chestnut St, Dillsburg, PA 17019

Traditional Dillsburg Pickle Drop

The traditional Dillsburg Pickle Drop will take place from 9 pm to midnight!  Enjoy live music, food trucks, and watch the big pickle drop!  

Location: 159 S Baltimore St, Dillsburg, PA 17019


Hanover Magic Elm New Year's Eve Matinee Party

Ring in the New Year with us at our annual family-friendly New Year's Eve Matinee Skate and Balloon Drop! The Balloon drop will take place at 4:00pm. 

Admission includes Free Hats, Horns, Snacks, Punch & 1 slice of Pizza 

December 31 1:00pm-4:30pm Balloon Drop at 4:00pm. 

Admission is $20 now-Dec 30; $25 at the door  Skate Mate Helper $3.00 

No Discount or Free Passes are accepted.


 First Night Hallam 

Ring in the New Year with us at our annual family-friendly First Night Hallam December 31 at 7pm-12am! 

This free event includes family friendly activities for all ages, music, food, raffles, and the annual Shoe will Drop at midnight!

Activities are held in the area of theTrinity United Church of Christ &  Fire Company, 163 E. Market St.


Glen Rock Mill Inn NYE Celebration

Join us for a delicious evening of celebration! You'll start with a glass of complimentary Champagne, followed by a delicious 5-course prix fixe menu. You'll choose a starter, entree and dessert from multiple options and our talented chefs' will prepare an hors d' oeuvre and intermezzo course.

Seatings are available from 5pm to 9pm.

Make your reservation here

 

  Gift Horse Brewing Co.New Year's Eve Party

Start out your New Year's Eve at Gift Horse Brewing Co. with craft beers, local liquors, great food, The Groove and special guest DJ Duo, Hot Slop Boogie Bop! 

Keep an eye on the event page for drink specials headed your way

21 years  and up event 


Goat'cha Bath & Body KIds NYE Party

 Join us for the Kids' New Year's Eve Party, where Santa and the Grinch go head-to-head in a battle of festive fun December 31st  5pm - 7pm
Activities include:
Meet and greet with Santa
Hang out with the Grinch
 Snacks and drinks to keep the energy high
Music Music Music
Crafts for creative minds
 Games for endless laughter
Giveaways and surprises
 And much, much more!
This festive fiesta is FREE for all, because every child deserves a magical start to the New Year!


Hanover New Year's Eve Pacman Drop

 Start the New Year off right by enjoying unlimited gaming, pizza, and soft drinks with us at the Timeline Arcade on December 31 from 8:00 pm-12:00 am. 

 Click here for ticket info 

The Pacman Drop will take place at midnight. All are welcome to join us for this free activity. 


Keystone Kidspace New Year's Eve Celebration

Come say goodbye to 2023 and hello to 2024 the Keystone Kidspace way! Bring the family out for a kid-friendly New Years Eve celebration! Activities include:

Ball drop at 1pm

Snowball fight at 2pm

Dance party as we watch celebrations around the world...all day

Resolution fire tiles...all day

Plus more activities and surprises!

Purchase a day pass online or at the front desk the day of your visit! 

All activities are included with admission.


Kids First Swim School Noon New Year's Eve Celebration 

Does your child want to celebrate New Years Eve but isn't old enough to stay awake? 

Noon Years Eve is the perfect event for them! 

This event is being held on 12/31 from 11 AM to 1 PM. We celebrate ringing in the New Year with sparkling apple cider, noise makers, and tons of swimming! 

It is $20/swimmer. 

Call 717-893-2356  to reserve your spot


 L & E Playhouse Kids New Year's Eve Party 

L&E Playhouse is delighted to announce an exciting and family-friendly event for New Year's Eve - the Noon Ball Drop on December 31st, 11:00 am-1:00 pm.
Activities include:
-Face painting
-Countdown and Noon Ball Drop
-Crafts
- Treats
Early booking is recommended as tickets are limited due to capacity restrictions.

Click here for tickets 


Laser Alleys NYE Glow Bowling

Party #1 (4:30 PM - 7:00 PM)

Price Includes: 2 ½ hours of Glow Bowling, Rental Shoes, Music, Hot Dogs, BBQ Sandwiches, Chips, Pretzels, Soft Drinks and Party Favors!

Price $25 per person Maximum 6 bowlers per lane.  

Party #2 (7:30 PM - 10:00 PM)

Price Includes: 2 ½ hours of Glow Bowling, Rental Shoes, Music, Hot Dogs, BBQ Sandwiches, Chips, Pretzels, Soft Drinks and Party Favors! 

Price $30 per person Maximum 6 bowlers per lane.

Party #3 (10:30 PM - 1:00 AM)

Price Includes: 2 ½ hrs of Glow Bowling, Rental Shoes, Music, Hot & Cold Buffet, Soft Drinks, Party Favors and A Champagne Toast at Midnight!Price $35 per person  Maximum 6 bowlers per lane. Click here for fill details and to make your reservation Red LionCome on out and celebrate the new year as we raise the Lion!  Activities included Music, Confetti Cannons, Free Noise MakersLocation and Time: Center Square 10:00pm -12:30am 


 Public House At The Markets  NYE Brunch featuring The Jedzons!

Join us here at The Public House at The Markets for an amazing NYE Brunch featuring live music from The Jedzons! They offer an array of tunes & genre's of music. 


RailTrail Tavern NYE Celebration 

Join us for an evening of fun, giveaways and some dancing with DJ Sean. we will be providing snack foods and a Toast at Midnight

Ages 21 and up only.  


Red Lion

Come on out and celebrate the new year as we raise the Lion!  Activities included Music, Confetti Cannons, Free Noise Makers

Location and Time: Center Square 10:00pm -12:00am 


Roll R Way

New Year’s Eve  Roll r Way is the place to be! 

Family Party

Dec 31  2:00 pm -7:00 pm

Admission $10 includes skate rental, hot dog, drink and glow necklace. 

Activities include a Balloon Drop with prizes!

Evening Celebration

Dec 31  8:00 pm -1:00 am

Admission $20 includes skate rental, and glow necklace. 


Seven Valleys

Ting in the New Year at The Valley Tavern's  18th annual New Year's Eve Chicken Drop! 

DJ JASON will keep the tunes blasting  and everybody moving and shaking from 9pm-1am. 

We will have complimentary party favors, a champagne toast, and the famous Chicken Drop at Midnight. 


St. David's Lutheran Church - Hanover, PA

Join us to celebrate the new year! 

Event will include a DJ, games and craft stations for kids and a New Year's Eve celebration to ring in the new year at 8:00 P.M. 

Hot dogs, chips, pretzels and soda provided. Please bring your favorite snack food to share.

Suburban Bowlerama

Celebrate New Year's Eve on the lanes with one of our 3 NYE parties!


Friends & Family Party 1:00 pm -3:30 pm

Fun Times Family Party 4:30-7:00 pm

NYE Celebration Party 8:00pm-MIdnight 

For full details and to book Your Lane click here 


Wyndham Garden York All That Glitters New Year's Eve Bash

Buffet Dinner | Two Hour Bar
Sweets & Coffee Buffet | Midnight Champagne Toast | Live Music Featuring Vertigo Vultures!

 Event Schedule

- 8:00 pm: Doors Swing Open
- 8:30 - 10:00 pm: Sumptuous Buffet Dinner
- 9:00 - 11:00 pm: Two-hour House Bar (on the house!)
- 11:30 pm - 12:30 am: Indulgent Sweets & Coffee Buffet
- Midnight: A Champagne Toast - Here's to 2024!

Get your ticket here 

21 years and older event 


York City

Join us in Continental Square for the final hours of 2023 and help ring in the new year at midnight. York's New Year's Eve celebration is sponsored by UPMC.

At 9:30 p.m., we'll have music for your listening enjoyment. RalphReal Productions Presents:
RalphReal and the Family Jam Band
DJ ConFusion
DJEazyBoI

At midnight, watch the white rose drop followed by a colorful fireworks display.

STREET CLOSINGS AND PARKING RESTRICTIONS:
-- Market Street from Beaver to Duke will be closed from 9 p.m. on December 31 until approximately 1 a.m. on January 1
-- George Street from Philadelphia to King will be closed from 9 p.m. on December 31 until approximately 1 a.m. on January 1
-- Parking will be restricted in that area beginning at 5 p.m.


 Know of an area event we should add? Please email the info to sarahfrane@macaronikid.com 

As always this is a living guide and events are added as information  becomes available. 

All events times. and locations are subject to change. 

Please be sure to check with the event host for updated information before heading out.