BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
Ring in the new year without spending tons of money
The last day of the year is fast approaching, bringing with it a smorgasboard of celebration choices for Torontonians. If your bank account is feeling far from healthy after the decadence of December, never fear: Tourism Toronto media relations manager Krystal Carter shares some of her picks for how to ring in 2017 in style — for $25 and under
Party down, downtown: Do you like free things, fireworks and skating to a DJ?
Check the NYE party in Nathan Phillips Square. Advertised as “Toronto’s largest dance and skating party,” this year is also the official launch of Canada’s year of 150th birthday celebrations, with the event TO Canada with Love!
Cost: Entrance (and dancing!) is free, $10 for adult skate rentals and $5 for kids Celebrate in Celebration Square: Going to be in Mississauga on NYE? Ring in 2016 with the Celebration Square NYE bash, starting at 8 p.m.
The entertainment includes Mississauga’s own DJ D-Smooth and DJ Intrinity, Trevor Guthrie, and Lowell — and like so many GTA New Year’s events, there’s skating (classic Canada). Bonus: The MiWay is free from 7 p.m. on Dec. 31 until 4 a.m. on Jan. 1.
Cost: Entrance is free, $10 for adult skate rentals and $5 for kids Hit the club: If going to a club or bar on NYE is more your style — but paying pricey cover fees isn’t — here are some $25-and-under options. Just make sure to purchase tickets in advance, as buying at the door often costs more.
Velvet Underground NYE Donnie Darko: ’80s Party starting at 9 p.m., $15, 510 Queen St. W.
Sneaky Dee’s NYE: 9 p.m., $10, 431 College St.
The Cadillac Lounge New Year’s Eve Party with Backtrack: 8 p.m., $25, 1296 Queen St. W.
Dakota New Years Party: 9 p.m., $20 to $25, 249 Ossington Ave.
Catch a doc: Tired of parties that make you stand (and socialize)? Bloor Hot Docs Cinema is calling your name. Dec. 31 marks the fourthannual Dude’s New Year’s event featuring the film The Big Lebowski, starting at 9:30 p.m. With its white Russian express bar and hosted by comedian Thomas Rivas, this event comes recommended. Bonus: a ticket includes the film, popcorn, a drink and party favours for when the clock strikes 12. Cost: $21 for adults, $17 for Bloor members
Skate the night away: Love the ice, and want a party for the whole family? Harbourfront Centre’s New Year’s Eve skating party is the scene for you. Entrance to Natrel Rink is free, skating rentals are cheap and kids are welcome. The party starts at 8 p.m. and runs until 2 a.m. — plus, think of all the exercise you’ll get as you skate the night away. Cost: Entrance is free, $8 for adult skate rentals and $6 for kids and seniors.