New Year’s Day 2027 falls on Friday, January 1, a statutory holiday in Ontario, so it’s the start of a long weekend. Here’s how to spend it.
Traditions
- Polar bear dips: brave souls plunge into Lake Ontario to raise money for charity. The Courage Polar Bear Dip in Oakville’s Coronation Park is a long-running New Year’s Day tradition; check for 2027 details and other dips around the GTA.
- New Year’s levees: the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and other officials have traditionally hosted free public receptions on or around New Year’s Day. Check for 2027 announcements.
Get outside
- Skating: many rinks are open. See outdoor skating.
- A first walk of the year in a ravine or along the waterfront. See winter hikes.
- Tobogganing if there’s snow. See tobogganing.
Stay cozy
- Brunch: some restaurants are open. See Christmas brunch.
- A movie: cinemas are usually open.
A New Year’s Day plan
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| Late morning | Sleep in, then brunch or dim sum |
| Noon | Watch or join a polar bear dip |
| Afternoon | A skate or a winter walk |
| Late afternoon | A movie or a museum with holiday hours |
| Evening | A cozy dinner at home with leftovers |
New Year’s resolutions, Toronto-style
Start 2027 with a goal you can enjoy in the city:
- Explore a new neighbourhood each month.
- Learn to skate or ski at a City rink or ski hill.
- Walk the Waterfront Trail or the Don Valley trails.
- Try a new cuisine from Toronto’s global food scene.
- Volunteer with a local charity. Volunteering in Toronto
- Buy a museum or zoo membership and visit through the year.
Getting around on New Year’s Day
The TTC runs a holiday schedule on January 1. Transit has been free from the evening of December 31 until the morning of January 1 in recent years, with regular fares after that. See the TTC holiday schedule.
The long weekend
New Year’s Day 2027 is a Friday, so many people will have a three-day weekend. Most stores reopen on Saturday, January 2. It’s a great time for a day trip, a ski weekend or one last visit to holiday events before they close. See Christmas day trips from Toronto.
New Year’s Day in Toronto: FAQ
Is New Year’s Day a holiday in Ontario? Yes, January 1 is a statutory holiday.
Are restaurants open on New Year’s Day? Many are, especially brunch spots and dim sum restaurants. Call ahead.
What’s open
Most stores, banks and government offices are closed; some attractions open with holiday hours. See what’s open on New Year’s Day and the TTC holiday schedule.
