City of Orillia determined to avoid fumbling New Year's bash after last year's flop

Orillia changes tradition to ring in New Year The City of Orillia is changing up tradition to avoid making headlines for all the wrong reasons heading into 2025.

After a 2023 holiday season marred by a lacklustre Christmas tree lighting and a New Year’s Eve balloon drop flop, the City of Orillia is determined to turn things around.

Officials decided to retire not only the old Christmas tree, which was replaced with a healthier version for this season’s tree lighting, they are also ditching the traditional balloon drop that has marked New Year’s since 2010.

The City cited environmental reasons and not last year’s gaffe for the change of plans.

“We’ve gotten some feedback about balloons and balloon drops, so we really want to be moving away from that and replace it with something equally fantastic,” explained Orillia recreation program supervisor Megan Visser.

The new plan to ring in the New Year at the Orillia Recreation Centre includes a video countdown in the gymnasium and aquatic centre to be followed by the blast of environmentally friendly confetti canons.

“I hope there’s another gaffe, so we make the news again,” joked one resident.

The event also features inflatable bouncy castles, free popcorn and cotton candy, and open swimming.

“You will not be disappointed,” Visser added.

Up to 3,000 people are expected to attend the free New Year’s Eve bash at the West Street South facility.

Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for the Sharing Place Food Centre.