2025 is nearly upon us, Toronto! Sure, you could relax at home, but why not kick off the new year with a little adventure? There are plenty of things happening around the city from ice skating to watching the Raptors. These are 10 things to do in Toronto on New Year’s Day.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Ripley’s Aquarium is open on New Year’s Day and if you haven’t checked it out before, this is your chance. “Immerse yourself among thousands of awe-inspiring aquatic animals and get closer than ever before with interactive, hands-on experiences and unique animal encounters,” shares the aquarium.
Tickets are $30 for children ages six to 13 and $46 for adults.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 288 Bremner Boulevard
Cost: $30+ per ticket
Cavalcade of Lights
Start off 2025 with a magical evening at the Cavalcade of Lights in Nathan Phillips Square. Not only will there be stunning art installations and light displays, but there will also be free skating at the outdoor rink. The festivities run until 10 p.m.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 100 Queen Street West
Cost: Free
ROM for the Holidays
ROM for the Holidays is a special experience with enhanced programming, live performances, and interactive activities. There will also be three additional exhibits to explore. Tickets cost $27.50 per person.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: 100 Queens Park
Cost: $27.50 per ticket
Spectacle: National Geographic
Happening at Sherway Gardens, National Geographic is showcasing photography in the form of an exhibit with photos of “the world’s most spectacular moments.”
Tickets to the Spectacle exhibit cost $14 per child and $20 for those over the age of 13.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 with timeslots between 10 a.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Where: 25 The West Mall
Cost: $14 to $20 per ticket
Toronto Polar Bear Dip
If you’re still sleepy from your New Year’s Eve festivities, this is sure to wake you up. The annual Toronto Polar Bear Dip is happening again at Sunnyside Beach. If you want to sign up to plunge into the cold waters of Lake Ontario, you can do so now.
All donations and money raised go towards the Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre’s programs and services.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 at noon
Where: 1601 Lakeshore Boulevard
Cost: Free (donations encouraged)
Hangar Skate
Free skating, anyone? The 4,500-square-foot refrigerated skating rink at YZD Plaza will be surrounded by immersive art installations as you glide around on the first day of the year!
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 from noon to 5:00 p.m.
Where: 34 Hanover Road
Cost: Free
Distillery Winter Village
The Distillery Winter Village is still open! Yep, if you didn’t get a chance to visit before Christmas, now is your chance. Enjoy live entertainment, hot beverages, holiday lights and local vendors, open from noon to 9 p.m. on New Year’s Day.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 from noon to 9 p.m.
Where: 51 Gristmill Lane
Cost: $15 per ticket general admission (free before 4 p.m.)
Toronto Marlies vs. Syracuse Crunch
The Toronto Marlies are hitting the ice at Coca-Cola Coliseum, taking on Syracuse Crunch. Tickets are available now and start at $38.50.
When: Wednesday, Jan. at 2 p.m.
Where: 19 9 Nunavut Road
Cost: $38.50+ per ticket
Winterfest at Canada’s Wonderland
Canada’s Wonderland is open for Winterfest on Jan. 1. The festival will have ice-skating on Snow Flake Lake, more than a dozen live shows and holiday entertainment, exciting rides, millions of spectacular lights, and hundreds of beautiful Christmas trees.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 100 Queens Park
Cost: $19.99 to $39.99 per ticket
Toronto Raptors vs. Brooklyn Nets
The Raptors are at home to ring in the new year taking on the Brooklyn Nets. Grab a friend, and grab some tickets ASAP.
When: Wednesday, Jan. 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: 40 Bay Street
Cost: $73+ per ticket
Happy new year, Toronto!
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