New Year's Eve Celebrations in the Detroit, Michigan Area

New Year's Eve isn't just for adults who aim to party hearty all night to celebrate the coming of 2008. Parents can include their youngsters in their New Year's Eve celebrations.

If the children are small and would not be able to stay up until midnight, parents should consider celebrating New Year's Eve during the day. There are many exciting activities in the Detroit area to consider, including:

*Disney's "The Lion King," 1:00 p.m. performance at the Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway Street, Detroit, (313) 237-SING. (http://www.motopera.org/)

*"Forbidden Christmas" at the Gem Theatre, 333 Madison Street, Detroit, (313) 963-9800. Ticket prices are $45 for the 6:00 p.m. show, and $75 for the 9:00 p.m. show. (http://www.gemtheatre.com/)

*38th Annual Belle Isle New Year's Eve Family Fun/Walk. For some, this event hosted by the Belle Isle Runners and Downtown Runners and Walkers has become a family tradition, sometimes attracting 2,000 participants. Festivities start at 3:30 p.m. The Children's Run/Walk is one of the largest running events in the state, and all finishers 12 years and younger will receive a trophy. The entry fee includes a long-sleeve shirt, awards, food and beverage. (http://www.runmichigan.com/entryforms/full.php/2007/december-31-2007-38th-annual-belle-isle-new-years-fun-run.html)

*For sports fans, the Detroit Pistons are playing the Milwaukee Bucks at the Palace of Auburn Hills, 3:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $10 and up. The Palace is located at 5 Championship Drive, Auburn Hills, (248) 377-0100. (http://www.palacenet.com/)

*If you're into hockey, the Red Wings will be facing off against the St. Louis Blues at Joe Louis Arena, 7:00 p.m. Tickets start at $22. The Joe Louis Arena is located at 600 Civic Center Drive, Detroit, (313) 983-6606. (http://www.olympiaentertainment.com/venues/joelouisarena.jsp;jsessionid=HEJAHJAHKBGK)

If your children are older and you're looking for more of a party atmosphere, there are several cities and community centers that will be offering family celebrations for the New Year.