Experience a Magical New Year's in Canada
Are you dreaming of a magical New Year’s Eve amid snow-capped landscapes and vibrant city festivities? Discover the allure of Canada, where winter becomes an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an experienced traveller planning a family getaway or a senior seeking new adventures, Canada offers an enchanting setting to welcome the New Year.
Best New Year's Destinations in Canada: Ontario and Quebec Version
Canada is home to some of the best places to spend New Year’s 2025. From the bustling streets of Toronto to the scenic beauty of Quebec City, there’s something for everyone:
Toronto: Celebrate with fireworks at Nathan Phillips Square, or enjoy a quiet evening with a view of the city skyline.
Montreal: Experience the magic of Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets, lit up with festive lights.
Ottawa: Gather the family and head to Parliament Hill for their annual New Year’s Eve Celebration.
Niagara Falls: Why not visit one of the casinos before heading to the river for their fireworks show.
Windsor: Switch it up and go for one of the many walks in nature that the area holds.
For more specific activities and things to do check posts on these cities:
New Year’s Eve Activities
For a truly memorable holiday, explore a variety of New Year’s Eve activities. Families can enjoy ice skating at local rinks, while seniors might indulge in a warm cup of cocoa by a roaring fire, taking in the serene beauty of a snowy landscape.
Expectations vs. Reality
For many visitors, spending winter in Canada is one of the chilliest things they’ve done! Temperatures vary from city to city but can hover around -5 to -15°C (23 to 5°F), dipping even lower with wind chills. Snow is almost a given in many parts, adding to the festive charm.
Weather Predictions
Toronto and Windsor might see milder temperatures, while Ottawa, Montreal, and Niagara Falls are known for chillier spells. To avoid freezing your fingers and toes off, make sure to pack warm clothes, including a hat, scarf and gloves!
Winter in Canada can mean you can have multiple seasons in one day. You should keep your itinerary flexible to accommodate instant weather changes. For example, I generally spend New Year’s Eve in Montreal. I have experienced everything from 15C degree temps to a serious blizzard during which, I am pretty sure, we walked across a snow covered freeway to get back to our hotel because no taxis could be found.
The Ultimate Packing List for Winter in Canada
Casual Essentials
Insulated winter coat (Canada Goose isn’t required, but make it warm!)
Thermal base layers and fleece-lined leggings or pants
Hat, scarf, and waterproof gloves. If you are a photographer like me, you’ll want gloves that will let you free up your figure tips quickly and then re-cover them when not needed. I have a pair of mitten/gloves for this purpose!
Waterproof, insulated boots with good grip for icy sidewalks. They should also be comfortable if you plan on a lot of walking about. Recommendation: try them on at home and walk about before travelling.
For seniors, I would even if you do not need, a cane or walking sticks. Many streets can be steep to begin with but add in snow and ice and slush, extra support for balance is a must.
Formal Attire
For high-end dinners or nightclubs, pack one dressy outfit, though consider layers for travel to and from the venue.
Formal footwear can be tricky with snow – many locals bring “indoor” shoes along to change into once indoors.
Miscellaneous Must-Haves
Extra socks (really, you can’t have too many and if your touring around during the day, stuff an extra pair in your pockets or back pack. Nothing worse that stepping into a cold slush puddle then having wet cold socks all day!), hand warmers, and a travel-sized moisturizer for cold air.
Packing Hack: Rolling your clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles, and thermal socks are a better investment than an extra sweater.
International Travel Tips
Travel Documentation
Seniors travelling with grandchildren may need written permission from parents or guardians, along with an up-to-date passport for each child. Everyone entering Canada now must have a passport and if necessary depending on your country of residence, a visa may be required. Visit the Government of Canada website for travel document requirements to enter Canada if you are unsure.
Looking for Flights; check below to compare prices, airlines, and more...
Currency
Canada’s currency is the Canadian dollar. While many places accept credit cards, a few loonies and toonies (Canadian dollar coins) are handy.
Medical Insurance
For international visitors, winter sports and outdoor activities can add a twist (mainly to your ankles!) – consider temporary insurance if it’s not included in your coverage.
Renting a Car.
There are many reasons to rent a car to get out of the city to see winter in all its glory. But unless you are a seasoned winter driver, I would not recommend. Sudden snow or ice storms can lead to hazardous roads and potentially leave you and your family stranded.
If you still plan on renting a car, monitor weather reports carefully and adjust your travel times as needed to avoid slick snow covered roads.
Kid-Friendly Travel Tips
If you are travelling with your kids or grand-kids and they are not used to winter weather, plan and prepare in advance. Here are some things to think about.
Keep Them Warm
Kids aren’t known for embracing layers, so prioritise extra socks, gloves, and hats.
Entertaining Little Ones
Canadian winters mean the unexpected could happen – travel delays or snowstorms. Download games and pack books or small toys to help keep children entertained.
Snacks & Warm Drinks
Carry thermoses with hot chocolate and snack packs to avoid the “I’m hungry” chorus on every corner.
Conclusion
So don’t wait till the last minute, start planning now and make your New Year’s Eve in Canada an unforgettable experience. Visit Al Murray Enterprises today for flight bookings, hotel reservations and exciting experiences. Book early to secure the best deals for your perfect New Year’s Eve celebration in Canada! Happy travels and see you soon!
Please note: The opinions expressed in this document should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences after 40-plus years of business and vacation travel. My likes and dislikes may vary drastically from yours. Do your research and find products and experiences that align with your likes and dislikes. Most of all have happy travels and see you out there on the road!
Al of Al Murray Travel & Photography: From the time in my youth, when I would lay on our garage roof watching planes traverse the skies above me, I knew I wanted to see the world.
My passion grew after spending a semester of my university days in Barcelona. I spent more time on trains and buses than I did in class.
After earning my BA from Carleton University, life got in the way. But I did find time to graduate again from George Brown in Fitness and Lifestyle Management and then work my way through most of a degree in Sports Administration. However I needed to find work and pay for all this education!
It wasn’t until my “middle age” did I start exploring the world again. First, transversing the US and Canada to take part in tennis tournaments. Then later to complete my spectator “grand slam” of tennis.
I accomplished this while earning my certificate in photography from Toronto Metropolitan University. I am now combining the two passions and now sharing with you my many lessons learned.