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.- The Mayor of Toronto's New Year's Day Levee (2010 details TBA)
- The Mayor Mississauga's New Year's Day Levee
- The Mayor of Brampton's New Year's Day Levee (2010 details TBA)
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
Although all Toronto attractions close for Christmas Day, most are open on New Year's Day, giving you the option to start your new year with a family-friendly outing.Toronto Attractions Open on New Year's Day
Toronto Attractions CLOSED on January 1stShop (Selectively)
While most stores will be closed New Year's Day, there are still options available. In 2010 The Eaton Centre will be open from noon to 5pm and Vaughan Mills Mall will be open from 10am to 7pm (see more about holiday hours at Toronto malls).
There's also plenty of shopping to be had in the area surrounding the Eaton Centre, since many stores within the Downtown Yonge BIA are usually open every 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!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
- Have the last year back. Sorry.
