You can ring in the new year with these free celebrations in Victoria Park

For decades Victoria Park has been home to a free New Year’s Eve celebration, and this year will be no exception.

Organizer Mario Circelli said that the celebration is fun for everyone, “You don't have to reach into your pocket. We've worked really hard to make everything free to the community and just have a lot of fun.”

More than a half dozen acts will perform on stage starting at 7 p.m. tonight.

For the first two hours, it’s all about the kids with Nick Gordon among the entertainers.

“He’ll have everybody singing and dancing. He wears costumes and integrates magic and music,” shared Circelli excitedly.

After the kids, a wide variety of acts for adults hit the stage. They’ll include Mark Swan’s Good Hang with their mix of jazz and funk, and DJ IM’PERETIV & Friends offers a mix of beats.

More than 15,000 packed Victoria Park in London, Ont. on New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31, 2022. (Source: Jay Panaseiko)

For the awarding winning IM’PERETIV it is fun to come home, “This is a great opportunity. I used to skateboard, actually, back in 2007, 2008, right behind us and Vic Park here. So it's kind of cool. Full circle. Years later, I'm out here now on stage at the bandshell performing New Year's Eve,” said Nate Butcher who performs as IM’PERETIV.

He will be followed by performers singing classic hits.

Although the city supports the New Year's Party, it is largely funded by sponsors. The price tag is $60,000, and that includes $15,000 for two fireworks shows.

The first blast in the sky for families attending will occur at 9 p.m.

The music – along with free hot chocolate for everyone – won’t stop until well after the New Year arrives.