Toronto residents and visitors planning to celebrate New Year's Eve will have a safer and more convenient option to get home, thanks to free transit services across multiple networks. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), GO Transit, and the UP Express will all offer complimentary rides to help ring in 2026.
Free Fare Details and Service Hours
The free service will be in effect on Tuesday, December 31, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. until the end of the service day. This initiative is designed to encourage safe travel and reduce impaired driving as the city hosts numerous celebrations. TTC spokesperson Stuart Green provided an update confirming the holiday schedules and the free service offering.
On the TTC, the free fare applies to all buses, streetcars, Wheel-Trans, and subway lines. Notably, subway service on Lines 1 and 2 will be extended until approximately 4:00 a.m. on January 1, 2026, to accommodate late-night revelers. Regular weekday service will run on most routes until early evening, shifting to a modified schedule for the night.
GO Transit and UP Express Participation
The free ride offer extends beyond the city's core transit system. GO Transit will also provide free travel on all its bus and train routes starting at 7:00 p.m. on New Year's Eve. Travelers should check the GO Transit website for specific schedule information, as some routes may have adjusted timetables for the holiday.
Similarly, the UP Express, which connects Union Station to Toronto Pearson International Airport, will be free during the same hours. This provides a vital link for air travelers or those working at the airport to join the festivities downtown.
Planning Your Night and Safety Reminders
With major events like the Nathan Phillips Square celebrations expected to draw large crowds, transit officials advise planning your trip in advance. Expect buses and streetcars on diversion in the downtown core due to road closures for fireworks and events. Real-time service updates can be found on the TTC and GO Transit websites and apps.
While the service is free, all standard safety and conduct rules remain in effect. Transit enforcement and security will be present to ensure a safe environment for all passengers. This annual free transit program is a key part of the city's strategy to promote responsible celebrations and ensure everyone gets home safely as the new year begins.
