Remember when kids used to feel left out of the New Year’s Eve festivities?

Well, youths now have their own fun. The Countdown to Noon in East Lyme has become a magnet for children; they take part in activities and watch more than 250 balloons drop at noon in celebration of the new year.

The Niantic Children’s Museum event is held Saturday at the East Lyme Community Center.

Among this year’s activities: Wildlife Encounters of New Hampshire will bring animals including a porcupine. an arctic fox and a mini pig for youngsters to meet, with shows at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Also on hand are a photo booth; various community organizations hosting hands-on crafts and activities; and appearances by Captain America and Black Panther.

When the wee folks work up an appetite, they can buy some pizza from The Rolling Tomato.

Countdown to Noon, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, East Lyme Community Center, 41 Society Road, Niantic; $10 per person for members, $12 for non-members; pre-registration required, limited tickets available; nianticchildrensmuseum.org, (860) 691-1111.