InspireU kicks off 2026 early with ‘Noon Year’s Day’ event filled with activities

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — A local museum is offering a new take on New Year's Eve fun for families interested in festive celebrations and STEM-based activities.

The InspireU Children's Discovery Museum in Downtown St. Joseph is hosting a special educational and activity-based holiday event on Wednesday morning called "Noon Year's Eve," at the state-of-the-art museum at 521 Felix St.

The event will combine a wide range of engaging and interactive activities with music emceed by educator Roy Moye, an experienced musician and aerospace engineer who pairs STEM-based activities with music to inspire and educate young innovators.

"Roy's mission is to use the power of music to inspire young multicultural minds to explore hidden career paths," a news release from the museum stated.

Participants will also get the chance to take part in a host of celebratory activities beginning at 9 a.m., including crafts, games, face painting, snacks and confetti eruptions, culminating with a countdown and balloon drop at noon.

The event is designed for kids of all ages. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is free for children younger than 1.

All activities are included with ticket purchases, which are $20 per person online, or $25 at the door. InspireU members can purchase discounted tickets at $10 a person online or $15 per person at the door.

InspireU will be closed to general admission on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Admission to the special InspireU family event must be purchased separately from general admission.

To learn more and purchase tickets, go to inspireU.com.