A child skates with two adults on an outdoor rink at night, smiling as snow falls.

New Years Eve Celebration

Ring in the New Year with a family-friendly celebration featuring outdoor ice skating, live DJ music and a local food truck.

  • → December 31, 2026
  • → 6 to 9 p.m.
  • → Waterloo Public Square ice rink
  • → Free and family-friendly

Getting here and parking

Best ways to get here:

Get directions to Waterloo Public Square


Check the weather

The New Years Eve celebration is weather dependent. If there is possibility of rain or severe weather, the event may be cancelled. 

For updates, check this page or follow Create Waterloo on Instagram or Facebook.


What's happening

People ice skating on outdoor rink in Waterloo Public Square with urban buildings in the background.

Ice skating

Lace up your skates and glide under the stars while enjoying a festive evening of outdoor skating.

Live DJ sets

Get ready to skate and groove as a local DJ brings the energy with a fun mix of upbeat tunes and crowd favourites all evening long.

Local food truck

Take a break from ice skating and warm up with a tasty treat from the Hissing Goose Coffee Roasters.

The first 100 visitors will also receive a complimentary hot drink!


What to bring

Pack these items to enjoy the event:

  • hats, gloves, snow pants
  • ice skates

Need ice skates?

McPhail’s Cycle and Sport offers rentals and is located just a short walk away at 95 King St N.


Find a washroom

Find nearby washrooms:

Both washrooms:

  • are open daily until 10 p.m.
  • are gender neutral
  • are wheelchair accessible
  • have an adult change table (no sling provided)
  • have accessible water fountains and bottle filling stations
  • include tactile maps and indicators

Photography notice

Photos and videos may be taken during this event and used by the City of Waterloo in print and digital communications, including the city's website, social media channels and promotional materials.
 
By attending this public event, you consent to the City of Waterloo using your image and voice in print and digital communications. If you do not wish to appear in photos or videos, please speak with city staff at the event or contact festivals@waterloo.ca.

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