No midnight needed: Northern New Year’s Eve events adapt for families

Northern Ontario families can ring in 2026 with early New Year’s Eve events. Science North in Sudbury is hosting a family day with a 4 p.m. confetti drop.

As 2025 approaches its end, the classic image of a midnight countdown is being gently reimagined by and for young families. Recognizing that late-night celebrations often clash with bedtime routines and little ones’ energy levels, northern organizers are pioneering earlier, more accessible ways to welcome the new year together.

<plug>

Celebrating before the clock strikes twelve

The shift to earlier times is both practical and purposeful. Danielle Hrechka of Lopes Ltd., which organizes a popular community celebration in Coniston, told CTV News the conscious choice behind their schedule.

“It’s before midnight so that families can participate,” she said.

“You can bring the kids, they can have a really great time. You still get them back before bed and the parents can still do a little fun thing for midnight as well.”

This thoughtful timing creates a shared experience for the whole family while preserving precious routines, offering what organizers called a best-of-both-worlds scenario for parents and children alike.

Daytime discovery at Science North

For those seeking a vibrant daytime alternative, Science North transforms the last day of the year into a festival of learning and play. Sarah Chisnell from the science centre invites families into a world of exploration.

“We’re having a New Year’s Eve family fun day at Science North,” she said.

“So, if folks are looking for something to do, it’ll be fun for the whole family. We’re open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and we’re just busy celebrating the last day of the year.”

The fun culminates in the centre’s beloved confetti drop at 4 p.m., a celebratory finale that sends families home with glitter in their hair and memories in hand.

The day is packed with activities designed to spark curiosity, Chisnell explained.

“We have everything from robot challenges, including robot hockey. We have lots of chances to create your own unique souvenirs for the 2025 holiday season. People can learn what animals do in the winter,” she said.

“We have a great show in our discovery theatre. It’s called ‘Blizzard Bonanza.’ High energy winter science show where we’ll push some of the limits of chemistry and physics to create more snow, if that’s even possible,” added Chisnell.

Brings sparkle in evening skies

For the magic of a nighttime celebration without the late hour, the Coniston Industrial Park and Lopes Ltd. present ‘Light Up the Night,’ returning for a fourth year with a promise of even more brilliance. The event centers on a breathtaking fireworks display, which Hrechka described to CTV News with enthusiasm.

“Oh, my gosh, the fireworks are massive. We spend quite a bit on fireworks. Felix really loves fireworks. So, the show itself is, I think, just a few minutes long, but we kind of spread it out all throughout the park,” she said.

Hrechka shared that beyond the pyrotechnics, the event fosters a warm, community atmosphere with classic winter pleasures that create a lasting impression, especially for children.

“There’s a big sliding hill that will have, which is a great way to get the kids involved,” she said.

“There’s BeaverTails here, which kids always love. The bonfires are always fun. Just a nice little warm-up area. People can bring their chairs if they want to. Just kind of sit and enjoy the evening or the fireworks.”

Keeping celebrations within reach for every family

Underpinning these festive offerings is a strong commitment to affordability, ensuring the celebrations are truly for everyone. Science North is leveraging a national program to reduce costs for younger visitors.

“We are part of the Canada Strong Pass this year,” Chisnell said.

“Thanks to the Government of Canada, we’re offering free general admission for visitors under the age of 18, and 50 per cent discounted general admission for visitors between 18 and 24.”

She added the discount is only valid through until Jan. 15.

The ‘Light Up the Night’ event, meanwhile, remains completely free for all attendees, a feat made possible by generous community sponsors. Hrechka highlighted the collaborative effort, saying, “a lot of companies either donate their time or equipment.”

Organizers work with Dream Catcher for the fireworks.

“Their crew (Dream Catcher) donates their time to help set up the event,” said Hrechka.

“Jim’s Portable donates the portables to us.”

This network of support allows the event to offer a complete experience at no charge, inviting the whole community to gather and celebrate the year’s end together as early evening turns to night.