We’re just a day away from ringing in the New Year, and Northeast Ohio is ready to celebrate with a number of family friendly events.
FIRST NIGHT AKRON
First Night in Akron is among the area’s many New Year’s Eve hot-spots.
“Children and families are going to be able to come here. There`s going to be events, there`s going to be toys to play with,” said Kevin Thompson with PNC Bank. “It’s going to be a great place to be.”
Thompson said toys used from some indoor events will be donated to a local women’s shelter.
First Night will be located in downtown Akron. It costs $10 per person and is free to kids under 10. Events start at 6 p.m., featuring live entertainment, artists, ice skating and a myriad of other indoor and outdoor activities. The fireworks displays are at 9 p.m. and midnight.
New this year is a midnight wedding reception.
Kirsten Houser and Jamie Banks are one of the 40 couples that will either renew or say their wedding vows for the first time that night.
Houser, 20, and Banks, 23, met while working at Cedar Point this past year.
Last New Year’s Eve, Banks popped the question.
“I think it’s going to be more special sharing it with someone else other than yourselves,” Houser said. “It’s been like a countdown, like literally, it’s been like seven days, six days. Oh my God, there’s one day left. What are we going to do?”
Houser and Banks are expecting their first child this summer, but are extremely anxious to be man and wife. This will be their first First Night experience, but they hope to return many years to come.
For more information about First Night, go to http://www.firstnightakron.org/
CLEVELAND METEROPARKS ZOO’S ‘NOON YEAR’S EVE’
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo starts its annual “Noon Year’s Eve” event at 10 a.m. on Dec. 31. The events will run until 1 p.m., with a variety of crafts and activities, including a mini ball drop. All activities are free with the price of admission.
For more information about Noon Year’s Eve, go to http://www.clemetzoo.com/events/event.asp?event_id=96
FREEWAY LANES BOWLING
Various Freeway Lanes bowling alleys are offering bowling specials throughout the day. Packages include shoe rentals, snacks, party favors and prizes. Times and prices vary by location.
For more information on Freeway Lanes bowling, go to
http://www.freewaylanes.com/freeway/newyears/new_years.html