The Best Places to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Ontario [2025]

If you’re planning to ring in the New Year in Ontario, Canada this year, we’ve got the ultimate guide to help you plan your evening. Whether you’re searching for a big party, a laid-back celebration, or family-friendly options, we’ve rounded up events and ideas from across the province.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Ontario

One of the most common ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Canada (and across the globe) is with fireworks! Although December 31st is typically a cold winter day in Ontario, you’ll find that many cities and municipalities offer free fireworks shows that you can bundle up and enjoy.

Here are some of the top cities in Ontario where you’ll find New Year’s fireworks shows:

• Niagara Falls: Enjoy a New Year’s Eve celebration including fireworks shows at both 8pm and midnight, a great option for families who don’t want to stay out late! The fireworks are paired with the breathtaking natural beauty of the Niagara Falls, and the city’s celebrations often include other activities and live entertainment.

• Toronto: The City of Toronto holds an annual fireworks show at midnight over the waterfront, with designated viewing areas and additional pop-up performances throughout the night. The celebration begins at 10pm, with the 10-minute fireworks display beginning at midnight, followed by a dance party!

• Barrie: Offers an annual free New Year’s Eve celebration with family-friendly activities, musical performances, and a fireworks show at 9pm to end the evening. For 2025, the event location has been moved to Meridian Place and festivities will be from 5pm to 9pm.

• Guelph: You’ll find free fireworks and more at Guelph’s annual New Year’s Eve event “Sparkles in the Park”, hosted by the Rotary Club. The fireworks will take place at 8pm on December 31st, making it a perfect destination for an early celebration. Free carousel rides are also available from 5:30pm to 9pm. Bonus: Sparkles in the Park is not just a New Year’s event! You can enjoy the lights displays, carousel rides, and more during the last 2 weeks of December.

• London: The City of London hosts an annual “New Year’s Eve in the Park” event complete with fireworks at 9pm and midnight, live entertainment, and outdoor ice skating. The event begins at 7pm on December 31st, with ice skating available until 9pm.

New Year’s Eve Events and Experiences in Ontario

Toronto & the Greater Toronto Area

• The Drake Hotel is hosting a New Year’s bash with live DJs, dancing, and a bubbly toast at midnight.

• Louix Louis on the 31st floor of The St. Regis Toronto is serving up a decadent New Year’s Eve four-course menu for a festive celebration.

• Harriet’s Rooftop Midnight Masquerade also has live DJ and entertainment.

• For a truly unique experience, hop aboard a Jubilee Queen Cruise for a night of music, dancing, and skyline views.

Ottawa

• The Ottawa Christmas Market is a popular holiday destination open from late November through December, with extended hours on New Year’s Eve. The market includes artisan gifts, festive flavours, and live entertainment throughout the season.

• Alight at Night Festival at Upper Canada Village is a winter wonderland open on select nights from late November through early January. The festival includes miniature toy train rides, sound and light shows, activity stations, and more!

Barrie

• Friday Harbour, just a short drive from Barrie, typically hosts an adults-only New Year’s Eve event complete with a three-course meal, fireworks show, and a midnight toast.

New Year’s Eve Vacations in Ontario

• If you love outdoor adventures, Blue Mountain Village is where you want to be. Spend the day on the slopes skiing or snowboarding, then join the lively evening celebrations with live music and a stunning fireworks show to welcome 2026.

• Muskoka is a winter wonderland that’s perfect for families. Picture cozy cabins, crackling bonfires, and fun-filled activities like scavenger hunts and kid-friendly countdowns. Hidden Valley Highlands will have a fireworks show at 6:00 PM and guests can have complimentary hot chocolate and cookies, while Deerhurst Resort offers special dinners and family buffets.

New Year’s Day Events in Ontario

If you’re ready to focus on 2026, there are also events taking place on January 1st and during the first week of the year to help you start off on the right foot.

Oakville

• The Courage Polar Bear Dip on January 1st at Coronation Park in Oakville is a fun and refreshing way to start the year—and it’s all for a good cause. You’ll be in good company with hundreds of fellow dippers raising funds for charity. If you’re ready to kick off your resolutions, this is the place to be!

Stratford

• The Stratford Symphony Orchestra’s annual New Year’s celebration on January 1st brings together beautiful performances to make the first day of the year extra special. 

“Don’t miss this joyful occasion filled with music, laughter, and the promise of new beginnings!”

— Stratford Symphony Orchestra

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No matter how you want to celebrate, Ontario has something to offer. From epic fireworks shows and gourmet dining to serene winter escapes, the province truly has it all. So, where will you be when the clock strikes midnight?