According to the ancient Mayan calendar, 2012 is the year the world will come to an abrupt end. Well, we’d like think this is all the more reason to steel yourself and pick up some tickets to some of the hottest New Year’s events in town. If you didn’t have a chance to fulfill any of your resolutions from this year, make up for it by treating yourself, your loved one, or the whole family to a New Year’s celebration they will never forget!

Why not celebrate like the celebrities do, on a swanky NYE cruise around Toronto’s stunning harbor? There are several cruise options that often include complimentary Hors D'oeuvres, dinner, champagne toasts, fabulous music, party favours and beautiful views. If you want a sealed guarantee that the crowd will be fantastic, organize a large group of friends and family and make the cruise your own! Sit back, relax and sail your way into the New Year.

If you’re hunting around for a New Year’s event the whole family can enjoy, try the popular festivities on offer at Toronto’s Nathan Philips Square. Citytv hosts some of Canada’s top talent and news personalities during the city’s largest free and alcohol free event. This is a great option for families looking to ring in the New Year with a bang, without all the festive chaos. The celebration is broadcast across the country, full of fun, and did we forget to mention, it’s free!

If you’re still looking to turn NYE into a fun event for your little ones, then perhaps a night out at the Toronto Zoo is up your alley! Kids get to visit with all their favourite animals and partake in a special kids’ countdown that begins at eight o’clock so you’ll have plenty of time to get home, and get dressed to the nines for a swanky party. This event, like most, has a very limited amount of tickets on offer and has become a popular event, so get yours today!

Don’t want to worry about getting home safe? Why not make it a New Year’s “staycation”? Pack an overnight bag, and check yourself into one of Toronto’s ultra chic hotels. There are a number of glitzy parties going on around town including the Viva Las Vegas party at The Sheraton Centre Grand Ballroom, or the Glamour & Glitz soiree at the Hilton Doubletree. Drink and dance the night away without a care in the world. All you have to remember is how to have a good time and how to find your room at the end of the night!

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, and looking for something really spectacular, then come spend New Year’s Eve at Niagara Falls ! With the festivities commencing at 6:30pm at Queen Victoria Park, performances by some of Canada’s most beloved musical talent, and the most sensational fireworks show in Canada, it will surely be a night to remember. Come a day early, check into one of Niagara’s many beautiful hotels, enjoy the splendor of the falls and the Festival of Lights, then sit back and watch the epic New Year’s show unfold. The best part about the celebration? The events at Queen Victoria Park are absolutely free!

No matter where you are in Ontario for New Year’s, remember to celebrate responsibly. Road checks will be out in full effect and checking vehicles meticulously. Toronto’s public transit runs all evening free of charge to ensure everyone gets home safe. Leave the wheels at home, put on your dancing shoes, and welcome 2012 with lots of laughter and champagne! 

Frank Bella, My Destination Ontario
December 2011