DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Decatur kids got in on the early New Year's fun at the Children's Museum of Illinois on Wednesday. 

Families were able to stop by before the balloon drop right as the clock struck noon.

Children's Museum of Illinois Executive Director Rikki Parker said that staff and families look forward to the event every year. 

"It's just a huge, fun celebration for us and for the community. It gives people exposure to the museum and everything that we offer, but also it's just a fun way for families to be able to celebrate the new year together," Parker said. 

Over 300 people were on hand to celebrate. 

More Coverage:

Heart & Flour: Equal Kneads Bakery has successful first year, looking to expand

Around the 217: WAND’s year in local stories

Red Cross steps up to provide relief after Long Creek tornado

Illinois Secretary of State warns of fraudulent text messaging scam

Copyright 2025. WAND TV. All rights reserved.