While most revelers were preparing to celebrate the arrival of 2026 with evening festivities, Oklahoma had a different plan for daylight celebrations. Oklahoma's family-friendly party-goers got an early start on their New Year's Eve merrymaking thanks to the Science Museum of Oklahoma and the Discovery Lab, both of which threw Noon Year's Eve events.
The Science Museum of Oklahoma began its kid-friendly event at 9 a.m., offering crafts like homemade cardboard floats. The activities culminated in a parade before noon, as reported by News9. Admission was included with regular museum entry, allowing families to celebrate creatively without staying up late.
The Discovery Lab hosted its annual Noon Year’s Eve balloon drop, a highlight of the museum’s calendar. Megan Matthewson told News On 6, "So today is our Noon Year's Eve event." Families gathered under nearly 22,000 balloons for the noon countdown and eagerly enjoyed the colorful shower. The event remains a favorite for combining fun and learning.
According to OKC FOX, the Science Museum of Oklahoma combined fun and learning with crafts and a DIY float parade, giving children and parents hands-on experience with science-themed activities. Ashlea Edwards told News On 6 that the events are inclusive for young children.
The Discovery Lab offered a balloon drop along with pop-up experiences and science demonstrations before the countdown. Megan Matthewson said the workshops allow children to tinker with their hands and engage in science learning.
Both museums are preparing for upcoming events. The Science Museum of Oklahoma will continue hosting family-friendly activities, while the Discovery Lab plans spring break camps and programs focused on engaging children in science and engineering. Families can look forward to educational and fun experiences throughout 2026.
