Philadelphia, January 1, 2026
The Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia hosted over 3,000 families for its annual ‘Countdown to 2026’ event, offering a safe and fun environment for early New Year’s festivities. Highlights included a DJ dance party, interactive activities, and a special ball drop, showcasing the community’s spirit of togetherness. The event emphasized the importance of local organizations in fostering civic engagement, creating memorable experiences for attendees of all ages.
Families Ring in the New Year Early at Please Touch Museum
Celebrating community resilience and family fun in Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA – The Please Touch Museum welcomed over 3,000 children, parents, and caregivers on December 31, 2025, for its annual “Countdown to 2026” event. This celebration beautifully showcased families’ love for togetherness and the community’s dedication to fostering a fun, engaging atmosphere. With two timed sessions designed for early risers, families could enjoy the festivities without the worry of keeping little ones awake past bedtime.
Such events underline the importance of local organizations taking the initiative and harnessing the spirit of civic engagement. Encouraging personal initiative while minimizing bureaucracy allows for a more fluid approach to event coordination and ultimately enhances community bonding.
Event Highlights
- DJ Dance Party: Enthusiastic music and dance sessions led by DJ Neeek Nyce and Kid DJs kept the energy high and children entertained.
- Interactive Activities: Children engaged in programs such as music with Miss Margaret and the Electric Whimsy, along with performances by Jazzy the Clown and Shakers.
- New Year’s Eve Ball Drop: A memorable ball drop in Hamilton Hall featured a cascade of confetti, simulating the excitement of midnight.
VIP Experience
For families wishing for an extra-special touch, the museum introduced a VIP upgrade option for members. This experience included:
- Priority Entry: A dedicated VIP check-in streamlining access to the event.
- VIP Craft Lounge: A delightful space for crafting unique New Year’s mementos.
- Photo Booth Experience: A festive setup with large “2026” balloon numbers for photo opportunities.
- Additional Perks: Grab-and-go snack boxes and exclusive keepsakes like limited-edition New Year’s headbands and light-up glasses.
Visitor Experiences
The event’s scheduling was widely appreciated, granting families the chance to enjoy New Year’s celebrations in a safe environment. Attendees reported that the day’s activities effectively engendered joy. Highlighted among the attractions was a wish wall, where children could express their hopes and dreams for the New Year, reflecting the optimism that defines community spirit.
About Please Touch Museum
Situated in Fairmount Park, the Please Touch Museum is committed to enhancing the lives of children and families through interactive and play-based learning. It features a plethora of exhibits aimed at inspiring creativity and curiosity among its young visitors, reinforcing the value of early education in a nurturing environment.
Event Details
- Date: December 31, 2025
- Sessions: 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m.
- Location: Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131
- Tickets: Available for general admission and members, with an optional VIP upgrade for members.
For more information about upcoming events and exhibits, interested families are encouraged to explore the Please Touch Museum’s official website and join the vibrant community committed to fostering exploration and enjoyment.
FAQ
What is the “Countdown to 2026” event at Please Touch Museum?
The “Countdown to 2026” is the museum’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring a DJ dance party, interactive activities, and a special ball drop with confetti, allowing families to celebrate the New Year before bedtime.
When did the “Countdown to 2026” event take place?
The event was held on December 31, 2025, with two timed sessions: 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m.
Where was the event held?
The event took place at the Please Touch Museum, located at 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131.
Who can attend the “Countdown to 2026” event?
The event is designed for families with children, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages to celebrate together.
What activities were included in the event?
Activities included a DJ dance party, interactive programs such as music with Miss Margaret and the Electric Whimsy, performances by Jazzy the Clown and Shakers, and a special New Year’s Eve ball drop with confetti in Hamilton Hall.
Was there a VIP experience available?
Yes, museum members had the option to enhance their visit with a VIP upgrade, which included priority entry, a VIP craft lounge, a photo booth experience, grab-and-go snack boxes, and exclusive keepsake items like limited-edition New Year’s headbands and light-up glasses.
How can I find out about future events at Please Touch Museum?
For information about upcoming events and exhibits, visit the Please Touch Museum’s official website.
Event Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| DJ Dance Party | Lively music and dancing sessions led by DJ Neeek Nyce and Kid DJs. |
| Interactive Activities | Engaging programs including music with Miss Margaret and the Electric Whimsy, and performances by Jazzy the Clown and Shakers. |
| New Year’s Eve Ball Drop | A special ball drop with confetti in Hamilton Hall, allowing children to experience the excitement of the New Year. |
| VIP Experience | Priority entry, VIP craft lounge, photo booth experience, grab-and-go snack boxes, and exclusive keepsake items for members. |
| Visitor Experiences | Families appreciated the event’s early timing, allowing children to participate in New Year’s festivities without staying up late. The museum also featured a wish wall, where children could share their hopes and dreams for the upcoming year. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Philadelphia Announces Road Closures and Parking Restrictions for Mummers Parade
Celebrating John A. Solheim’s 80th Birthday and Legacy
Quakers Host Highlanders in New Year’s Eve Matinee
Philadelphia Welcomes the New Year with Spectacular Events
Heavy Fire Erupts at Philadelphia Row Home
Philadelphia Hosts Historic New Year’s Eve Celebration
Dynamic Music Event Energizes Lansdowne
Philadelphia Hosts Third Annual Kwanzaa Celebration at Penn Museum
Families Welcome New Year Early at LEGOLAND Philadelphia
Kwanzaa Celebrations in Philadelphia: Unity and Cultural Events
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
