New Year's Eve in Kent: A Family-Friendly Guide for 2019

Hey there, Kent families! Are you wondering how to ring in the new year with your loved ones? We've got you covered with this ultimate guide to family-friendly New Year's Eve events happening right in our backyard. So grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and family new years eve kent 2019.

Why Kent for New Year's Eve?

Before we jump into the action, let's talk about why Kent is the perfect place to spend New Year's Eve with your family. For starters, it's all about community here. Kent residents love coming together to celebrate, and there are plenty of events that cater to families with kids of all ages. Plus, with its picturesque countryside and vibrant towns, Kent offers a stunning backdrop for your new year's celebrations. So, let's make the most of it, folks!

Fireworks and Fun: Kent's Top NYE Events for Families

Maidstone - The County Town's Big Bash

Kicking off our list is Maidstone's annual New Year's Eve extravaganza. This year, they're promising a fantastic fireworks display, live music, and a funfair to keep the little ones entertained. The event is free to attend, and there's plenty of parking nearby. Just remember to wrap up warm, as it can get chilly waiting for the midnight countdown!

When: 6 PM - 12:30 AM Where: Mote Park, Maidstone More info: Maidstone Borough Council

Canterbury - A Night at the Ice Rink

Fancy something a bit different? Canterbury's Winter Wonderland is hosting a special New Year's Eve session on their ice rink. Skate off the old year and welcome 2019 with a fun-filled evening on the ice. They'll also have a DJ playing tunes to keep the atmosphere lively. Tickets are reasonably priced, and there are family discounts available.

When: 6 PM - 10 PM (session times vary) Where: Canterbury's Winter Wonderland, The King's Mile, Canterbury More info: Canterbury City Council

Rochester - A Dickensian New Year

Step back in time and celebrate New Year's Eve in style at Rochester's Dickensian-themed event. The town will be transformed into a Victorian wonderland, with street entertainment, market stalls, and even a procession led by Charles Dickens himself. The evening culminates in a spectacular fireworks display over the River Medway. It's a unique and unforgettable way to welcome the new year with your family.

When: 4 PM - 12:15 AM Where: Rochester High Street and Castle Gardens More info: Medway Council

NYE at Home: Fun Ideas for the Whole Family

If you prefer to stay in and avoid the crowds, there are plenty of fun ways to celebrate New Year's Eve at home with your family. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. 1. DIY Fireworks Display: Create your own indoor fireworks show using glow sticks, streamers, and confetti. It's a safer and more budget-friendly alternative to the real thing.
2. 2. Memory Lane: Spend some quality time together by creating a scrapbook or photo album filled with your family's favorite memories from the past year.
3. 3. Game Night: Dust off your board games, card games, or video games and have a family gaming marathon. You could even create or print out some New Year-themed games specifically for the occasion.
4. 4. Movie Marathon: Choose a selection of family-friendly films with a New Year's theme, such as "Night at the Museum," "The Parent Trap," or even the classic "Dickens' A Christmas Carol" (hey, it's close enough!).
5. 5. New Year's Eve Countdown Party: Decorate your home with party hats, noisemakers, and balloons, and host your own countdown party. You can even make your own piñata filled with treats and small prizes to keep the kids entertained until midnight.

Safety First: Tips for a Happy and Safe New Year

Before we sign off, it's essential to remind you of some crucial safety tips to ensure a happy and healthy New Year for you and your family:

1. 1. Plan Your Journey: If you're attending an event, make sure you know how you're getting there and back. Public transport timetables may be affected, so plan accordingly.
2. 2. Dress for the Weather: It can get chilly waiting for fireworks displays, so make sure everyone in your family is wrapped up warm.
3. 3. Stay Hydrated: Alcohol isn't the only thing that can dehydrate you. Make sure you and your family drink plenty of water throughout the evening.
4. 4. Keep an Eye on the Kids: Large crowds and loud noises can be overwhelming for young children. Make sure they stay close by and consider using a child locator device or wristband.
5. 5. Fireworks Safety: If you're setting off your own fireworks, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and never handle them if you're under the influence of alcohol. Keep a bucket of water nearby to cool down any used fireworks, and never relight a firework that hasn't fully ignited.
6. 6. Respect Your Neighbors: If you're having a party at home, be mindful of your neighbors and keep the noise to a reasonable level, especially after midnight.

And there you have it, folks! Our ultimate guide to family-friendly New Year's Eve celebrations in Kent. We hope you and your loved ones have a fantastic time welcoming 2019, and here's to a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year for us all!

Stay safe, and happy New Year!