As the year draws to a close, families across Oregon are eager to welcome the New Year with warmth, joy, and unforgettable memories. The state’s diverse landscapes and family-friendly communities offer several options for those seeking a safe and enjoyable celebration with their loved ones. From charming coastal towns to vibrant city events, here’s a guide to the best family-friendly places to celebrate New Year’s in Oregon.
Portland – New Year’s Eve Skate Party
The Oaks Park Roller Rink celebrates the New Year with their annual all-ages skate party.
You can look forward to a live DJ, take advantage of special skate deals, and enjoy festive party favors. As the clock ticks down to midnight, partake in the thrilling countdown, marking the arrival of the New Year in a lively and family-friendly atmosphere. Included with admission is the convenience of standard skate rental, ensuring everyone can join in the roller-skating fun. This year introduces an exciting addition for guests aged 21 and older – a champagne toast to bid a fond farewell to 2023 and usher in good wishes for the upcoming year, 2024.
Salem – Gilbert House Children’s Museum
Salem, the capital city of Oregon, offers a mix of tradition and family-friendly festivities for New Year’s Eve. The Riverfront Park hosts a family celebration with carousel rides, live music, and a fireworks display over the Willamette River. The Gilbert House Children’s Museum provides an interactive and educational experience for younger family members, making it an excellent daytime destination. Your little ones can ring in the “Noon” Year at 12 pm and enjoy the kid friendly party with a hot chocolate bar, fun crafts, and a balloon drop at noon!
Mt. Hood Skibowl’s Annual New Year’s Eve Extravaganza
Celebrate the arrival of the new year in spectacular fashion at The Mt. Hood Skibowl’s Annual New Year’s Eve Extravaganza—an event designed for the entire family to enjoy. Taking place at both the East and West locations of SkiBowl, this extravaganza promises a diverse range of activities and entertainment.
Start with Cosmic Tubing, where the snow-covered hills are transformed into a dazzling display of colors and lights, adding a magical twist to traditional tubing. Frosty’s Playland awaits the younger revelers, offering a delightful area filled with games, activities, and winter wonder. The highlight of the evening is the breathtaking Hood River New Year’s Eve fireworks display. As the clock strikes midnight, the sky above Mt. Hood lights up with a dazzling array of colors and patterns, providing a truly magical backdrop to welcome the new year.
Portland – MJCC New Year’s Eve Party
If you’re looking for an earlier family fun event, bring your kids to the Mittleman Jewish Community Center to ring in the New Year at noon. Children of all ages can enjoy games, dancing, a bouncy house, arts and crafts, snacks, face painting, and a beach ball “drop” at noon. This fun event is free and open to the whole community.
Manzanita – Manzanita Wacko New Year’s Eve Midnight Parade
Experience the visual delight of the Manzanita Wacko New Year’s Eve Midnight Parade—a time-honored tradition where locals, in vibrant ensembles, collaborate with nearby businesses to parade through the streets. Prior to the procession, savor a drink and raise a toast to the New Year at the Sea Shack in nearby Wheeler or the Wateringhole.
The celebration extends beyond the stroke of midnight. Continue the festive atmosphere by staying for the New Year’s Day Polar Plunge on Manzanita Beach the following day. Witness the bravery of those who plunge into the chilly waters, adding an exhilarating start to the new year. This fusion of local tradition, coastal charm, and spirited festivities guarantees an unforgettable New Year’s experience.
Final Thoughts
As families gather to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, Oregon provides a range of family-friendly destinations that cater to diverse interests. Whether you prefer the urban charm of Portland, the outdoors of Mt. Hood, or anything in between, there’s a perfect spot for your family to celebrate New Year’s. May your New Year be filled with laughter, joy, and cherished moments with your loved ones!
Emily currently lives in Orange County, California after spending four years in Illinois and half a year teaching in Florence, Italy. She holds a B.A. in English Literature from Knox College and an M.A. in Counseling from the University of San Diego and has taught English to native speakers and ESL students for over three years. When she’s not working as a School Counselor or writing, she enjoys traveling the world, playing instruments, and blogging about Millennial experiences at Long Live the Twenties.