Families across Durham Region will have plenty of ways to welcome 2026, with New Year’s Eve celebrations, community parties, and a traditional Polar Bear Swim kicking off the year on a chilly but festive note.
Oshawa Celebrates 2026
The City of Oshawa is hosting Oshawa Celebrates 2026, a free, family-friendly New Year’s Eve event running from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Delpark Homes Centre.
The celebration will include:
- Free skating and swimming
- Animal displays
- Inflatable jumping castles
- Live entertainment
- A countdown to 2026 at 9 p.m.
Admission is first-come, first-served until capacity is reached. Wristbands for skating and swimming will be distributed starting at 5:45 p.m., and regular swim admission rules apply.
Celebrations Across Durham
Other municipalities across Durham Region are also hosting New Year’s festivities for residents of all ages:
- Whitby will host its popular Light the Night celebration
- Ajax is welcoming families at the Ajax Community Centre
- Pickering is holding events at the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex
Each event offers a safe and welcoming environment for families to celebrate the arrival of the new year together.
Polar Bear Swim in Clarington
For those looking to start 2026 with an adrenaline rush, the Clarington Polar Bear Swim returns on New Year’s Day in Newcastle. Participants will take an icy plunge into Lake Ontario in support of the Hollylynn Towie Memorial Fund, continuing a long-standing community tradition.
Photo Credits : Insauga
