Not everyone makes it to the final countdown to the New Year. Younger audiences can celebrate earlier in the day at Noon Year's Eve at the Audubon Zoo, sort of a wild party for the whole family. Amanda Shaw (pictured) and the Cute Guys headlines the festivities. Entertainment includes the double-dutch jump rope and dancing of the Slidell Skippers, games and contests courtesy of Radio Disney, prizes like four passes to Disney World and a noontime countdown complete with an apple juice toast. Admission $12 adults, $7 children, $9 seniors.

— Will Coviello

11 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon., Dec. 31

Audubon Zoo, 6500 Magazine St., 581-4629; www.auduboninstitute.org