Things to Do in Toronto on New Year's Day

Attend a Levee

These free receptions are held on New Year's Day by most public officials in and around the GTA. You can drop by to meet your representatives and other local residents, and often enjoy some free family entertainment, as well.

• The Lieutenant Governor of Ontario's New Year's Day Levee
• The Mayor of Toronto's New Year's Day Levee
• The Mayor Mississauga's New Year's Day Levee
• The Mayor of Brampton's New Year's Day Levee

Also in 2008, The City of Burlington's having a Free Family Party Day on January 1st while The Mayor of Oakville's New Year's Day Levee is actually on January 6th.

Join the Polar Bear Club

Never heard of a Polar Bear Club? Every year crowds of people collect pledges for charity then, on New Year's Day, fling themselves into the cold waters of Lake Ontario. And if you're not up for the swim, you can always go watch.

Reassess Your Resolutions

I know, I know - most people with New Year's resolutions consider January 1st a write-off. But that makes it a great day to make sure all those lofty goals you came up with for yourself have a solid plan of action to back them up. To get started, check out How to Make Sure-Fire New Year's Resolutions from Mark Stibich, About.com's Guide to Longevity.

Visit (Some) Toronto Attractions

Not only are several Toronto attractions open on New Year's Day, some have special programs. In 2008, for example, Casa Loma's holiday events are running strong on January 1st.

Some of the Other Attractions Open New Year's Day

• The Ontario Science Centre (with extended hours, 10am to 6pm)
• The Toronto Zoo
• The CN Tower (although the 360 Restaurant is CLOSED)

Toronto Attractions CLOSED on January 1st

• The Art Gallery of Ontario
• The Royal Ontario Museum
• The Hockey Hall of Fame

Shop (Selectively)

While many stores will be closed New Year's Day, there will be plenty of options still open. In 2008, for example, The Eaton Centre will be open from noon to 5pm and the Downtown Yonge BIA has announced that many other stores in the area will be open as well.

Stay In

Which, depending on what you did for New Year's Eve, you may also refer to as "recover".

Some Things You Can't Do

• Go to the library
• Expect your mail to move
• Go to the bank
• Have the last year back. Sorry.