By Alyssa Ramsfield
January 1 brings a feeling of renewal to many people. It represents a fresh start with a bright future. But what about the kids? You know, your kids that you don’t want staying up until midnight to watch the ball drop. What can they do? Well, Thurston County has you covered with plenty of early celebrations for the little ones that will leave the entire family cheering.
How about celebrating New Year’s Eve during the day? The Hands on Children’s Museum is doing just that. From 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., HOCM is celebrating New Year’s Eve at noon. There will be a ball drop, dance party, crafts, science projects, and more. This event is geared toward the younger crowd but will be enjoyed by the whole family. Tickets will go quickly. Pre-registration is encouraged. If you decide to become a museum member, purchase a membership between 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. and receive discounted tickets and early admission to the noon event.
December 31, 2014 from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
414 Jefferson St. NE in Olympia
Price: $8, members, $10, non-members, Accompanying adults, $4
Timberland Regional Library presents local magician, Jeff Evans. Evans bring the wonder of a book and the characters within the pages into reality for children of all ages through is magic show. While you are there, make the resolution to read and check out a few books. The mystical adventure begins at 2:00 p.m. at the Tumwater library location.
December 31, 2014 at 2:00 p.m.
7023 New Market Street in Tumwater
Price: Free to the public
The Stardust Christmas Commotion
This is the nineteenth year for this South Sound tradition. The Stardust Christmas Commotion features popular singing, dancing, and music from the 50s while spreading holiday cheer to the whole family. It’s a New Year’s party that will leave you humming until midnight. Check out the Harlequin Productions website for more information and tickets.
December 31, 2014 from 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
The State Theater – 202 4th Avenue E in Olympia
$39/adult
$35/military
$25/students
Polar Bear Plunge – Long Lake
Wrap up your holiday celebrations with one of the oldest New Year’s traditions in our area, the icy dive known as The Polar Bear Plunge. Long Lake’s water hovers around a whopping 43 degrees this time of year making the plunge an unforgettable splash. Jumpers wear swimsuits, wetsuits, and even costumes during the event. Whether you want to cheer from the shoreline or take a leap of faith, Thurston County residents of all ages are encouraged to take part in this free, frigid event. Campfires, music, and hot cocoa begin along Long Lake Park at 12:00 p.m. New Year’s Day.
January 1, 2015 at 12:00 p.m. (plunge is at 1:00 p.m.)
Long Lake Park
2790 Carpenter Rd. in Lacey
Price: Free to the public
Polar Bear Plunge – Offut Lake
Offut Lake Resort will host their annual Polar Bear Plunge and “hang-over” breakfast. This year’s event starts with a 10:00 a.m. dive into the cold waters to celebrate the start of a brand new year. Once dried off, participants can head over to the resorts’ restaurant, Lady of the Lake, for an unforgettable breakfast that is sure help kick off 2015 with a full stomach.
January 1, 2015 at 10:00 a.m.
Offut Lake Resort
4005 – 120th Avenue SE in Tenino
Price: Free polar bear plunge
Thrifty Thurston highlights inexpensive family fun in Thurston County. The weekly series focuses on family-friendly activities throughout our community. If you have a suggestion for an article, send us a note at submit@thurstontalk.com. For more events and to learn what’s happening in Olympia and the surrounding area, click here.
