On December 31, the New Year's Eve Family Celebration returns to the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre, starting and ending earlier than in past years to accommodate families with young children.

This popular annual event features music, ice skating, swimming, family gym time, crafts, face painting, and a massive balloon drop at 'early New Year' (7:00 PM). The event begins at 4:00 PM and concludes after the balloon drop. Admission is by donation with proceeds covering the cost of the event.

Returning as entertainers this year are Owen Sound musical duo 'Our Shotgun Wedding' and the Dixieland-style jazz band 'Eighth Street Orchestra'. The Buff Bistro take-out counter will be open throughout the event, offering healthy snacks, light meals, and refreshments.

The City of Owen Sound presents the New Year's Eve Family Celebration sponsored by McDonald's Restaurants of Canada and in partnership with the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce. Parents and legal guardians are reminded that children must be accompanied at all times. For more information about the New Year's Eve Family Celebration see owensound.ca/new-years-eve.

source: media release, City of Owen Sound