City of Orillia rings in 2026 with free New Year’s Eve events across the city!

For immediate release (Dec. 17, 2025) – The City of Orillia welcomes 2026 with the annual free New Year’s Eve Bash at the Orillia Recreation Centre (255 West St. S.) and the grand re-opening of the Gill Street Community Complex (433 Gill St.) on Dec. 31, 2025.

“New Year’s Eve in Orillia is always a special time for our community, and this year we’re excited to offer free celebrations throughout the city,” said Mayor Don McIsaac. “Whether you’re joining us at the Orillia Recreation Centre, celebrating the reopening of the Gill Street Community Complex, or taking part in other activities, we hope residents of all ages come out to enjoy the festivities and welcome 2026 together.”

Grand Re-Opening - Gill Street Community Complex

The City of Orillia is excited to host the grand re-opening of the Gill Street Community Complex with a cake cutting and light refreshments at 9:00 a.m. in the Community Room, followed by two free community skates in the Brian Orser Arena, sponsored by Flynn Canada:

• 9:15 to 9:50 a.m. and
• 10:00 to 10:50 a.m.

Annual New Year’s Eve Bash - Orillia Recreation Centre

The popular New Year’s Eve Bash runs from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. with activities for all ages, including face painting, crafts, open swim, and a variety of bouncy castles and inflatables. Attendees can enjoy complimentary popcorn and cotton candy and create lasting memories at the photo wall.

Don’t miss the exciting videoboard countdown and recyclable confetti cannons at 7:30 p.m! Attendees are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to fill at the hydration station to keep you refreshed.

Celebrate and Give Back

The City is once again partnering with the Sharing Place Food Centre and requests attendees to bring a “Top Needed Item” to donate at the New Year’s Eve Bash.

For more event details and a list of items needed by the Sharing Place Food Centre, visit orillia.ca/recreationevents.

Other Free Skates - West Orillia Sports Complex

Flynn Canada sponsors two additional free skates at the West Orillia Sports Complex (100 University Ave.):

• 11:00 to 11:50 a.m. and
• 12:00 to 12:50 p.m.

Free Orillia Transit - New Year’s Eve

Sponsored by your local Tim Hortons, ride Orillia Transit for free on New Year’s Eve to ensure safe and convenient travel for everyone.

• 4:45 p.m. to 1:45 a.m.

Come out and enjoy a day full of fun and community spirit as we celebrate the start of 2026 together!

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Contact Information

Haley Birch
Programs and Camps Coordinator
705-325-1262
hbirch@orillia.ca

Angela Grenier
Manager of Communications
705-325-2108
agrenier@orillia.ca