New Year’s Eve can be one of the most fun nights of the year (especially because it’s simultaneously the last and the first), but it can also leave you making resolutions for better spending habits, which is why free events on New Year’s Eve in Toronto are some of the best options for planning a great night out.
While it may seem like you have to pay a gut wrenching cover to get into the city’s New Year’s Eve events, that’s not always the case. Whether you’re opting to keep it casual by going for a skate on a free public rink or hoping to attend a rowdy pub party, there are options for you that won’t cost a cent.
As always, the TTC and GO Transit will also be free from 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31 to 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1, so you don’t even have to worry about paying your usual fare to get around the city.
If you are willing to shill out some extra dough on a party, you can check out our round up of New Year’s Eve parties in Toronto, or read on for some free events to ring in 2025.
Events you might want to check out:
NYE at The Harbourfront Centre (December 31 @ Harbourfront Centre)
Lace up your skates and watch the fireworks display from one of the best spots in the city: right on the ice.
City of Toronto NYE Fireworks (December 31 @ Multiple Venues)
It doesn’t get more dazzling than the City of Toronto’s annual free fireworks display.
5th Annual NYE Party at Cat’s (December 31 @ The Cat’s Cradle)
There’s no cover but plenty of cheer at this annual NYE celebration held at a homey Corso Italia sports bar.
New Year’s Eve at Royal Canadian Legion (December 31 @ Royal Canadian Legion Branch 266/46 (Maple Leaf/Swansea))
Everyone’s welcome (and no one has to buy a ticket) to get into this celebration at the Legion!
Nothin’ Fancy Bang City NYE (December 31 @ Bangarang)
This Little Italy cocktail bar and nightclub is offering free entry before 10 p.m.
TQL New Year’s Eve Bash (December 31 @ The Queen’s Legs)
Ring in 2025 with drink deals and complimentary snacks at this celebration taking place at a cozy neighbourhood pub.
Zuffalo and Cherry Garcia Band NYE Party (December 31 @ Penny’s)
Get your 2025 off to a psychedelic start with this live performance from one of the city’s premier Grateful Dead tribute bands.
Distillery District Winter Village (November 13 – December 31 @ Distillery District)
If you’re more interested in getting out and about during the day on New Year’s Eve, this holiday haunt will have free admission before 4 p.m.
Union Winter Presented by TD (November 28 – February 2 @ TD West Carriageway)
Things are getting groovy at Union Station’s indoor roller rink, which is open with free admission until 8:30 p.m. on NYE.
Winter Skating at the Bentway (December 21 – February 17 @ The Bentway Skate Trail)
What better way to celebrate a new year than with some physical activity? This unique outdoor rink is open until 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.
