Watching the Times Square Ball Drop on TV is a tradition for many families and a fun way to ring in the new year. But you don’t have to travel all the way to New York City to see the ball drop, either. There are plenty of unique ball drops and parties taking place in the Chesapeake area this year, from kid-friendly “Noon Year’s Eve” events to date nights for parents.
All of these events begin Wednesday, Dec. 31.
Family-Friendly
New Year’s Eve at Noon! – Millersville
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Features a ball drop into the alligator enclosure
ecoadventures.org/special-events
Noon Year’s Eve Baby Rave – Crofton
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
A New Year’s Eve event for children ages 5 and younger
Sing in the New Year – Severn
2-3 p.m.
Welcome the new year with this community sing-a-long.
aacpl.net
Crab Drop – Easton
6 p.m.-midnight
A famous Talbot County event where a giant crab is dropped instead of a ball
Date Night
The Desert of Maryland Presents: A Southern Sparkle Masquerade – Annapolis
3 p.m.-3 a.m.
Come and go as you please at this 12-hour masquerade event.
2025 Dumpster Fire – Stevensville
6-11 p.m.
It’s been a rough year. Say goodbye to 2025 at this community bonfire.
The New Romance: The Ultimate 80s Prom NYE Dance Party – Annapolis
9 p.m.
Travel back in time to the 80s before 2026 starts!
Charm City Countdown NYE 2026: A Night at Studio 54 – Linthicum Heights
9 p.m.-2 a.m.
Themed after the famous New York nightclub of the same name
