Washington County libraries ring in the new year with family fun and goal-setting

WASHINGTON — Families and adults looking to celebrate the new year outside of late nights or loud parties will find options at Washington County libraries this week, from a midday countdown for kids to a reflective, goal-focused workshop for adults.

The Washington Public Library will host its annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration from 11 a.m. to noon on Dec. 31, offering a free, family-friendly alternative to traditional New Year’s Eve festivities.

  Buy Photo

“Noon Year’s Eve is a family friendly party! Free and open to all!” Jenisa Harris, Washington Public Library’s youth services librarian said in a blog about the annual event. “You can count down to the Noon Year without staying up late!”

The event includes games, crafts, face painting, balloon animals, music, snacks and a balloon drop to mark the new year at noon, according to the library.

Harris said the program has become a favorite holiday tradition for many local families.

“Christmas is one of my favorite times of year. It’s so magical with the beautiful lights, decorations, and family traditions,” Harris said. “We are so lucky to live in a community that provides so many fun holiday events to celebrate and make memories with your friends and family — some that can become part of your holiday traditions for years to come. I am so excited to be able to host Noon Year’s Eve again this year.”

The Washington Public Library will close early at 5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and will remain closed on Thursday, Jan. 1.

Adults seeking a quieter, creative way to welcome the new year can head to the Wellman Public Library, which will host a Vision Board for the New Year program from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 30.

The program invites participants to create vision boards. These are collages of images and words designed to motivate and focus personal goals for the year ahead.

“A vision board is a collage of words and pictures that serve as a visual motivation and reminder to reach your goals and dreams,” the library said in its program description. “Let’s finish out the year strong looking forward to a new year in 2026.”

The library will provide magazines and materials, though participants may bring specific items they want to include. Registration is required to ensure enough supplies are available.

The Wellman Public Library program is open to adults and aims to help participants reflect on the past year while setting intentions for the next one.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com