Brampton - Everyone is invited to a free New Year's Eve Party in downtown Brampton with music and fireworks for the entire family. The festivities, spanning six city blocks, will begin at 2:30 pm and run until 12:30 am with a fireworks display planned for 9 pm and at midnight. A grand finale to the exceptional WinterLights program, featuring a laser show and fireworks display, will be part of a new spectacular countdown at the Rose Theatre Brampton.

Festivities will include: family entertainment, marshmallow roasting, ice-skating at scenic Gage Park and a 30 foot high Ferris wheel and merry-go-round. Entertainment at the Rose Theatre Brampton main stage includes performances by David Usher and Our Lady Peace. The Children's Stage will feature Miss Spider, The Fairly OddParents, Bananas in Pyjamas and much more!

This year, as an additional measure to control pedestrian traffic in the downtown core, a wristband policy is being introduced. While everyone can enjoy the free events and activities, the wristband enables Brampton residents to gain closer access to the main stage for the headline entertainment and midnight visual display.

From December 8 to December 30, Brampton residents (proof of residency required) can obtain a maximum of two free wristbands each from any one of these locations: the Rose Theatre Brampton, Lester B. Pearson Theatre, South Fletcher's Sportsplex, Terry Miller Recreation Centre, Earnscliffe Recreation Centre, Chris Gibson Recreation Centre and Cassie Campbell Community Centre while supplies last.

On December 31, from 9 am to 6 pm Brampton residents can pick up wristbands at City Hall.After 6 pm non-residents can pick up wristbands along with Brampton residents at Garden Square while supplies last.

For more information about the City of Brampton's New Year's Eve celebration, call 905-874-2000 or e-mail specialevents@brampton.ca or visit the City of Brampton's website at www.brampton.ca/newyearseve