Barrie New Year’s Eve celebration moves to new location

(File image)

Barrie’s popular New Year’s Eve party is changing locations this year.

On December 31, the festivities will be held at Meridian Place, 30 Simcoe Street, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The free, family-friendly event will feature live music, busker acts, inflatables, games, and food trucks. Visitors can warm up by a bonfire before the night ends with a fireworks display at 9 p.m. from Heritage Park.

Since 1998, the Barrie New Year’s Eve Celebration has brought thousands together to welcome the new year.

The City says the headline entertainment will be announced soon.

What’s Happening

• Inflatables, games, face painting, and button making
• Live music and roaming buskers throughout the evening
• Food trucks serving a variety of options
• Bonfire warming area
• Fireworks finale at 9 p.m.

Getting There

Barrie Transit will run free service starting at 5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, with buses running until 3 a.m.

Downtown parking is free after 5 p.m., including at the Collier Street Parkade.

Road Closures

Simcoe Street between Bayfield and Dunlop/Mulcaster will be closed from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. on December 31 to accommodate the event.

Emergency vehicles will have access, but through traffic will not be allowed.

Local traffic can access Lakeshore Mews and Heritage Parking Lots.