Mississauga residents will get a chance to start the new year with the mayor and city council at the annual Mayor's New Year's Levee, set for Sunday, Jan. 11, at City Hall and Mississauga Celebration Square.
The free, all-ages event runs from 1 to 4 p.m., according to the city's event listing. An official ceremony opens the afternoon at 1 p.m. It is followed from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. by a meet-and-greet with dignitaries and special guests, with photos with Mayor Carolyn Parrish, in the Great Hall at City Hall, 300 City Centre Dr.
One photo per guest, no selfies
Each guest who goes through the meet-and-greet will have one complimentary professional photograph taken, which can be downloaded after the event. The city says selfies will not be permitted and that the meet-and-greet will end promptly at 2:30 p.m., so anyone hoping for a photo should plan to arrive early.
Skating and family activities
Outside, the Celebration Square rink, the city's largest outdoor ice surface, will host skating, treats, family activities and a DJ skate party through the afternoon. Free skate rentals and free underground parking will be available, insauga reported.
Parrish promoted the event in a Dec. 27 social media post, inviting residents out for "great family fun."
The rink can close temporarily in heavy snow or warmer weather. Skaters can check its status by calling the city at 905-615-3200, ext. 7465.
A tradition dating to the 1600s
The levee traces its roots to the court of France's King Louis XIV in the 17th century, when it was meant to show that the monarch belonged to the people. The royal governor of New France later brought the custom to what is now Canada, where it continues as a New Year's tradition, insauga noted.
This will be the second levee hosted by Parrish, who won Mississauga's mayoral byelection in June 2024 from a field of 20 candidates.
If you go
When: Sunday, Jan. 11, 1 to 4 p.m.
Where: Mississauga City Hall and Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Dr.
Cost: Free
Meet-and-greet: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Great Hall
