Here are some ways to ring in the new year in Edmonton

Here are some New Year’s Eve events happening in and around Edmonton to ring in 2026.

City of Edmonton New Year’s Eve Downtown Festival and Fireworks

The City of Edmonton is planning its annual outdoor celebration featuring fireworks shows, free activities, live music, skating, food trucks and more. This all-ages family event includes free skate rentals and skate aids (on a first come, first serve basis) for taking a spin on the city hall ice rink.

There will be an early fireworks show at 8 p.m. for families who might’ve set the clock ahead by a few hours for their young ones. Mayor Andrew Knack will lead the countdown to the midnight fireworks display.

When: 6 p.m. to midnight, early fireworks at 8 p.m.

Where: City Hall Plaza and Sir Winston Churchill Square

Admission: Free

New Year’s Eve at Ice District

Country music singer-songwriter Owen Riegling takes the Ice District stage after the Edmonton Oilers host the Boston Bruins at Rogers Place. Canadian electronic/country duo Vavo will perform a special midnight set with giant countdown screens and fireworks galore.

When: 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., fireworks at midnight

Where: Ice District Plaza

Admission: Free

Noon Year’s Eve – Telus World of Science

Telus World of Science Edmonton is ringing in the “noon year” with a scientific twist on fireworks on the Syncrude Science stage on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

When: Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 at 12 p.m.

Where: Telus World of Science: Syncrude Science Stage

Admission: $18.95-$24.95 depending on age

Citadel Theatre New Year’s Eve

The Citadel Theatre is hosting a family-friendly DJ dance party featuring a roving balloon artist, face painting, art activities, free cookies and glowsticks alongside an indoor viewing of the fireworks launched off the Stanley A. Milner Library.

When: 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Where: Citadel Theatre - The Lee Pavilion, The Shoctor Lobby for fireworks

Admission: Free

World Water Park’s Family Beach Ball

The water park in the West Edmonton Mall is hosting an indoor party complete with a buffet, character appearances and roaming entertainers – including a fire breather.

An hourly beach ball drop is scheduled and what the WEM calls the city’s largest indoor fireworks show will cap off the night.

When: 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Where: World Water Park, West Edmonton Mall

Admission: $69 and up – the buffet is an additional cost per person.

Muttart’s New Year’s Bloom

The Muttart Conservatory is hosting a celebration early on in the day with an all-ages event in the botanical gardens.

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Muttart Conservatory

Admission: General admission – $7.75 to $14.95 depending on age

Stony Plain NYE Fireworks

Sleighrides, skating, a family dance, bonfires, barbecue, hot cocoa and a fireworks show can be found at Heritage Park on New Year’s Eve.

When: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (fireworks at 9 p.m., sleigh rides end at 8:45 p.m.)

Where: Heritage Park

Admission: Free

Ice Castles Edmonton

Ice Castles is back with its must-see winter fairytale caverns and tunnels made entirely from ice.

When: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Where: Fan Park

Admission: $15 to $24

St. Albert New Year’s Eve Fireworks

St. Albert will host its own free fireworks show launched from the Meadowview Ball Diamonds. The city recommends the following viewing spots:

• Red Willow Trails near the Children’s bridge. Parking lot available at St. Albert Place located at 5 St. Anne St.
• Lions Park located at 21 Sir Winston Churchill Ave. Parking lot is located adjacent to Lions Park.
• Millenium Park located at St. Anne Promenade and Tache Street. Street parking is available.
• Morgan Park between Mission Avenue and Morgan Crescent. Street parking available nearby.

When: Fireworks begin at 8:30 p.m.

Admission: Free

New Year’s Day Levee

On New Year’s Day itself, Lt.-Gov. Salma Lakhani will host the annual Levee at Government House. Guests will be able to meet and take a photo with the Lieutenant Governor, take in the house’s art and enjoy live music and treats. There will be opportunities to sign the guest book and write postcards of support for Canadian Armed Forces members.

When: 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Where: Government House, 12845 102 Ave.

Admission: Free, all ages, no advanced registration required. Limited free parking is available.