While the City of Orillia rings in 2026 with its annual free New Year’s Eve Bash at the Orillia Recreation Centre on December 31, it will also host the grand re-opening of the Gill Street Community Complex the same day.
The facility, which was recently renamed from Brian Orser Arena (a name that remains for the rink inside) during the renovations, will have a cake-cutting and light refreshments in the morning before hosting two free community skates.
- 9:15 a.m. to 9:50 a.m.
- 10 a.m. to 10:50 a.m.
There will also be two additional free skates at the West Orillia Sports Complex .
- 11 a.m. to 11:50 a.m.
- 12 p.m. to 12:50 p.m.
In the evening, the New Year's Eve Bash will feature activities like face painting, inflatables, and an open swim. There will also be complimentary popcorn and cotton candy, as well as a photo wall.
Recyclable confetti cannons will go off along with the videoboard countdown, set to happen at 7:30 p.m.
“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 in a release. “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.”
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.
Orillia Transit services will also be free from 4:45 p.m. on New Year's Eve to 1:45 a.m. on New Year's Day.
