As the city of Toronto prepares to welcome the New Year, citizens might be wondering what services will be available during the New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day holidays. While certain establishments, such as banks, liquor stores, and many shopping malls, will remain closed on January 1, there will still be numerous businesses open and a myriad of activities to engage in. In this article, we provide you with a comprehensive guide on what’s open and closed, plus transit changes in Toronto during this festive period.

What’s Closed on New Year’s Day

Most banks and government offices, including the Toronto City Hall, will not be operational on New Year’s Day. Branches of the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and The Beer Store will also remain closed. Large shopping malls, such as the Eaton Centre, Yorkdale Shopping Centre, and Sherway Gardens, will not be open for business.
These closures are in line with the statutory holiday regulations in Ontario.

What’s Open on New Year’s Day

Despite these closures, numerous establishments will continue to serve the public. Groceries stores, such as Rabba Fine Foods and Galleria Supermarket, will be open. Fast-food chains, pharmacies, and convenience stores typically remain open as well, although hours might vary. The Toronto Zoo, Royal Ontario Museum, and the Art Gallery of Ontario will be open for those looking for a cultural outing. In addition, outdoor skating rinks and certain parks will be open for recreational activities.

Transit Changes

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) will operate on a Sunday schedule on New Year’s Day. Subway service will start at 8:00 am. Go Transit and UP Express will also operate on a Sunday schedule. It is always a good idea to check their respective websites for the most up-to-date information.

Staying Safe During the Festive Period

While enjoying the festivities, it is crucial to remember to stay safe. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, citizens are urged to follow public health guidelines, maintain social distancing, and wear masks when in public spaces. Furthermore, if you plan on celebrating with alcohol, ensure you have a safe way home, such as designating a sober driver or using public transit.

This guide aims to help Torontonians navigate the New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day holidays. As always, it’s a good idea to check with individual businesses for their specific hours during this period. Here’s to a joyous and safe celebration!

Ethan Radcliffe

Ethan Radcliffe is a senior reporter and digital editor at The Toronto Insider, specializing in Canadian federal policy, GTA urban development, and national economic trends. With over a decade of experience in North American journalism, Ethan focuses on translating complex legislative and economic developments into clear, accessible reporting for Canadian readers. Ethan’s work emphasizes policy analysis, government accountability, and data-driven reporting, with a strong focus on how federal and provincial decisions impact communities across the Greater Toronto Area and beyond. He has covered infrastructure planning, housing policy, fiscal strategy, and regulatory changes affecting Canadian households and businesses. A graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University’s School of Journalism, Ethan brings expertise in investigative reporting, long-form analysis, editorial standards, and digital publishing best practices. His reporting is guided by verifiable sources, public records, and transparent sourcing. In addition to reporting, Ethan has experience in newsroom editing, fact-checking workflows, SEO-informed journalism, and audience analytics, ensuring stories meet both editorial integrity standards and modern digital discoverability requirements. Ethan is committed to objective, fact-driven journalism and adheres to established ethical guidelines, prioritizing accuracy, clarity, and public trust in all reporting.

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