Family-Friendly

Toronto Zoo
OK, we’ll spare you the party animal jokes, but, for many families, ringing in the New Year with baby orangutans and tiger cubs is a yearly tradition. The Toronto Zoo offers a plethora of entertainment, from the Majinx Magic Show to a performance featuring characters from Little Bear and The Big Comfy Couch. Four of the zoo’s pavilions (Indo Malaya, Malayan Woods, Indian Rhino House and the African Rainforest) will be open; revellers can chow down at the Africa Restaurant. A kid-friendly countdown starts at 9 p.m., so little ones can get to bed at a decent hour.
Where: Toronto Zoo, 361A Old Finch Ave., 416-392-5900, www.torontozoo.com/NewYears.asp
When: 6-9 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.).
How much: ages 13 to 64 $9.50, four to 12 $5.50, three and under free.

Medieval Times
Suitable for all ages, the celebrations at Medieval Times offer visitors the opportunity to party like it’s 1099. Feast on garlic bread, roasted chicken and spareribs while cheering on jousting armour-clad knights. For an additional cost, guests can attend the pre-show champagne reception and an after party in the Knight’s Lounge, complete with a midnight countdown and a live DJ.
Where: Exhibition Place (former Arts, Crafts and Hobbies Bldg.), 10 Dufferin St., 1-888-935-6878, www.medievaltimes.com/tohomepage.htm
When: 9 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
How much: dinner and show: adults $62.95, kids $43.50; dinner, show, reception and after party: adults $83.95, kids $58.95.

Nathan Phillips Square
This annual bash always draws a huge crowd. This year’s edition, hosted by MuchMusic VJs Tim Deegan and Sarah Taylor, features rockers Hedley and diminutive R&B songstress Keshia Chante. When the clock strikes 12, revellers can join international opera sensation Measha Brueggergosman in a rendition of “Auld Lang Syne.”
Where: Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. W.
When: 7 p.m.–12:30 a.m.
How much: free.

Gibson House Museum
Ring in the New Year Scottish style by participating in the museum’s annual Taste of Hogmanay. (Hogmanay’s the Scots word for the last day of the year.) Take a tour of the gorgeous Georgian farmhouse and nibble on holiday treats. Kids can craft traditional Hogmanay trinkets. Visit the Web site for a two-for-one coupon.
Where: 5172 Yonge St., 416-395-7432, www.toronto.ca/culture/christmas-events.htm
When: noon–5.
How much: adults $4.25, students and seniors $2.75, kids $2.25.