New Year's Eve with children in Belgrade
Belgrade works well for a family visit over New Year, but the standard New Year's Eve programme does not. Evenings run until five in the morning and are loud by design. The solution is a different format entirely, and it exists in most parts of the city, though it is rarely advertised.
The early programme
Some restaurants run a family programme starting at five or six in the afternoon, with midnight moved to eight in the evening.
This is a separate event rather than a shortened version of the night, with its own programme and price.
These slots are announced later than the night programmes and have fewer places, so ask specifically.
How long children last
For children under ten, eleven in the evening is a realistic limit regardless of how good the programme is.
For older children the limit is around one in the morning, and only if there is other company their age.
If you do go to the night programme, agree in advance who takes the children back and when.
Children's menu
A smaller meal at a reduced price can usually be arranged, but it is not automatic and must be requested.
State the child's age when booking, as what is offered differs considerably between a five and a twelve year old.
Dietary requirements are declared at the same time, as nothing can be arranged at the table on the night.
Does a child take a seat
Yes. Tables are sold by the number of places, not by the age of the guests, so a child occupies a paid seat.
A discount on the meal is common; a discount on the seat is rare.
A baby in a carrier is the usual exception, but confirm it in advance as the carrier needs space.
Where to sit
A table away from the speakers and near the exit is far more practical with children than a good view of the stage.
Against a wall is safer than on a walkway, as staff move quickly with full trays that night.
Both requests are made when booking and are normally granted without extra charge.
Noise
New Year's programmes are loud even for adults, and for small children they are often too much.
Early family programmes are quieter, because they rarely include a full band.
If you attend a night programme, bring ear protection and expect that a young child will sleep at some point.
Daytime activities
Ice rinks operate from late November to the end of January and are the most popular family activity in the city.
Children's theatre performances run throughout December and into January, with morning and afternoon slots.
Tickets for these sell out in November, because schools and nurseries book them as groups.
Belgrade Zoo and Kalemegdan
The zoo is inside Kalemegdan fortress and operates through the winter, though with shorter hours.
Kalemegdan itself is the easiest outdoor activity in the city and is walkable from the old town.
On 1 January it is almost empty, which for families is a considerable advantage.
Shopping centres
Shopping centres run children's programmes through December, mostly at weekends in the afternoon.
They are also among the few places open on the afternoon of 1 January, which matters with children.
Food courts are the most reliable place to eat that day.
What to bring
A change of clothes, something quiet to occupy them and headphones take little space and solve most problems.
Medication is brought from home, as pharmacies are closed on 1 January apart from a few duty ones.
If a child sleeps at the venue, something soft to lie on is worth having, as nothing is provided.
Getting back
With children, transport is arranged before you go out and not left to chance.
If you attend an early programme, the problem does not arise, as you leave around ten when transport is normal.
That is the strongest argument for the early format over anything else.
A New Year's Day lunch instead
Some restaurants run a family lunch on 1 January, at a price well below the night before.
For families who prefer not to go out at night, this is the most practical option of all.
It is announced in December and books up quickly, because few places open that day.