Free Toronto Newsletter!
Discuss in my Forum

Things to Do in Toronto on New Year's Day
What's Open, What's Closed and What's On for January 1st

See More About:

Looking for something to do on the first holiday of the year? New Year's Day in Toronto may see many businesses and services close, but there are still a lot of great ways to spend your day on January 1st.

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.

Also in 2008, The City of Burlington's having a New Year's Day Pajama Party while The Mayor of Oakville's New Year's Day Levee is actually on Sunday January 4th.

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)
The Royal Ontario Museum
The Art Gallery of Ontario

Toronto Attractions CLOSED on January 1st

Shop (Selectively)

While most stores will be closed New Year's Day, there will be plenty of options still open. In 2009, both The Eaton Centre and Vaughan Mills Mall will be open from noon to 5pm (see more about holiday hours at Toronto malls).

Actually there will be plenty of shopping to be had in the area surrounding the Eaton Centre as well as the Downtown Yonge BIA has once again announced that most of the stores in their area will be open on New Year's Day.

Go to the Movies

You can always start the new year off in front of the big screen. Of course because so few things are open on New Year's Day the movie theatres will be busy, so go early if you want good seats!