Community comes together on New Year’s Eve

Norfolk County Recreation staff during the New Year’s Eve Celebration in Simcoe. 

Alex Hunt 

Advocate Correspondent

Locals came together at the Talbot Gardens in Simcoe and celebrated the New Year with food, chocolate beverages and games. 

“Norfolk County Recreation has been hosting this family-friendly New Year’s Eve event for more than 10 years,” said Katelyn Bowen, Recreation Services Supervisor. “The original inspiration was to provide a low-cost, welcoming option for families to celebrate close to home.

“The event was designed to offer something for everyone, whether families wanted to be active on the ice, enjoy a snack and socialize, get creative with a craft, set an intention for the year ahead, or simply stop by for popcorn and fun.”

Facilitated by Norfolk County Recreation staff, attendees had the opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities in the Talbot Gardens multipurpose room. Activities ranged from a New Year’s Eve noisemaker craft, giant Jenga, temporary tattoo station, hot chocolate station, resolution wall, fresh popcorn, and a photo booth.

Staff hosted a mimic traditional New Year’s countdown starting at 5:45 p.m., followed by a public skate from 6-7 p.m. 

“The balloon drop was a favourite part of the evening for many children, and it always gets great feedback,” said Bowen. “Event staff gathered all the children beneath a large net filled with balloons. Together, everyone counted down to celebrate the ‘New Year,’ and the balloons dropped to mark the end of 2025 in a fun and memorable way.”

Bowen said that life can be busy and expensive, and that it’s important to provide an inclusive, local celebration that families can enjoy without added financial stress. She mentioned the event offered a relaxed and affordable way for residents of all ages to come together and celebrate as a community. Bowen said that Norfolk County Recreation hosted a variety of family holiday events, including a two-day Holly Jolly Camp, holiday-themed swims, Holiday Hangout, and Parents’ Night Out, along with other swimming and skating programs that locals could enjoy over the break.