Family Friendly Fun for the New Year's Holiday

If a game night with the kids won't do and you're itching to get out somewhere for Dec. 31 or Jan. 1, check out these family friendly picks.

Northville Nite

• Where:
• When: 4:30-8 p.m. Dec. 31
• Pricing: $3-$7, depending on age
• Why Go: Enjoy an "Around the World" New Year's celebration with crafts and inflatables. Snacks will be sold by Novi Rotary Club, and kids will get a "passport" to get stamped as they travel "around the world." Plus there will be an early new year's countdown for revelers whose bedtimes come hours before the stroke of midnight.

Novi Bowl's Family Hoedown

• Where: Novi Bowl
• When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 31
• Pricing: $60 per family
• Why Go: Ring in the new year early with the family. This package gets up to five people three hours of bowling, pizza, pop, party favors, prizes and shoe rental. Everyone will ring in the new year at noon, so kids don't have to miss the fun due to early bed times.

Shoe Year's Day

• Where:
• When: 11 a.m. Jan. 1
• Pricing: Free with a Recreation Passport, which costs $10 and gets you into all state parks and state boat launches all year long. Click here for details.
• Why Go: Start 2012 out with a bit of fresh air and activity at Maybury State Park. Meet at the Concessions Building, take a hike, get a chance at winning a gift card, and enjoy time around the bonfire and snacks afterwards. Be sure to dress for the weather, and bring a can of tuna for Gleaners.

Also going on daily through Dec. 31 is the Wayne County Lightfest. Head to Hines and Merriman (specifically, starting at 7651 N. Merriman, Westland) and take the Midwest's longest light display, at a cost of $5 per vehicle, that'll give you a lifetime of illuminating memories.