ST. JOHN’S – Canada enthusiastically welcomed the arrival of 2026 with vibrant festivities stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast. Residents of St. John’s, Newfoundland, were the first in the country to ring in the New Year, leading the nationwide countdown and witnessing a spectacular fireworks display at Quidi Vidi Lake as the clock struck midnight.
In Montreal, the historic Old Port was transformed into a winter wonderland for the “Le Grand Minuit” (The Grand Midnight) celebration. Thousands gathered to enjoy a massive outdoor party featuring a synchronized light show, live performances by prominent Quebec artists, and a grand pyrotechnic finale over the Saint Lawrence River. Meanwhile, Toronto’s waterfront became a focal point for tens of thousands of revelers who attended a free 10-minute high-altitude fireworks show synchronized to music, alongside pop-up dance performances and live DJ sets.
The Prairies also joined the festivities, with Calgary hosting family-oriented events featuring local food trucks and live music at various community hubs. The national celebration concluded as British Columbia crossed the midnight threshold in the Pacific Time Zone, officially ushering all of Canada into 2026. Despite the winter chill, the spirit of “human warmth melting the snow” prevailed as Canadians celebrated the promise of a new year with hope and unity.
