How the city planned an event to bring the community of Brantford together
On Wednesday December 31, 2025, the Brantford community joined together in Harmony Square for a New Year’s Eve celebration.
The event showcased multiple new activities to celebrate. New this year, Steve McPhail, a David Bowie tribute, performed at the Sanderson Centre, as well as Queen’s Court, a Queen’s tribute band. The Sanderson Centre hosted these two performers for free the night of the event.
Another activity hosted during the event was the DJ Skate Party. This event was attempted last year, but was cancelled due to being rained out at last year’s event. Jennifer Middleton, Special Events Supervisor at the City of Brantford, said that the team was excited to try it again this year.
Middleton also noted that the City has evolved over the years with the event starting off as a small gathering hosted by community members.
“The event was in Harmony Square with bands on the Bell Stage and has grown into a signature City of Brantford annual event that attracts families from across the city … what started as a simple year-end celebration has evolved into a large, well-coordinated event designed to create lasting memories for residents of all ages,” Middleton said.
Some Brantford residents see the New Year’s Eve event as a tradition connected to fond memories. Angela Roloson, a Brantford resident, attended the event going back 13 years ago.
“We met [in Harmony Square] just before New Year’s and spent New Year’s there to celebrate where he asked me to be his partner. Then we spent the following year there as it was our one-year anniversary. We tend to always remember and appreciate those moments and appreciate the city putting this event on,” said Roloson.
Roloson went on to note that the event is always a great time and a friend-family environment. The comment appears to be right in line with what Middleton defined as a successful event.
“A successful celebration for us includes strong community turnout, positive feedback from families, smooth operations behind the scenes and a safe, enjoyable environment for all who attend. We also aim to create memorable moments, whether through entertainment, activities, or shared experiences, that leave our community feeling proud of their community and excited to return in future years,” Middleton said.
The city also ensures that the event is accessible to all residents, offering free transit the night of the event from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. local time. This allows members who are not in the downtown core to still access the event without worrying about driving through the current construction as part of the Downtown Revitalization Project.
The City works all year to coordinate this event, starting in January with booking bands and vendors, and collaborates with multiple departments to make the event a positive, fun experience for all residents to enjoy.
“My favourite part is the countdown to a spectacular fireworks show presented by TD Bank,” Middleton said.
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