RA looks at how key cities in the world's second largest country will be ringing in the new year.
As the year comes to a close, that dreaded question rears its head: "What are you doing for New Year's?" The night is one of the clubbing industry's busiest, but if you're the kind that likes to go out, it's probably best to plan ahead. We've rounded up the best of the events in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver (plus Victoria!) to help you figure out your own revelry.
Toronto
We must admit that Toronto has seen better years for NYE parties, but there are still a few kickers if you're itching to dance right through the countdown. Marcus Visionary will headline a bash for drum & bass heads at El Mocambo by Soul In Motion, and a grip of local crews will come together at Rivoli for a night of classic-minded house that features esteemed local Stuart Li, AKA Basic Soul Unit. Later in the evening he'll play a secretive party which will also see sets from Gingy & Bordello, Kevin McPhee and Jokers of the Scene among others. For details on the location you'll have to leave a message at the "raveline" listed on the flyer, which you can see over on the event page. Capacity is limited, so calling ahead is recommended.
MontrealStacey Pullen will lay down a set at one of the most city's beloved clubs, Stereo (and you can catch Chus & Ceballos the next night at their New Year's Day party), while Prison Garde will headline a local-centric lineup at the SAT. There are two larger-scale events to bear in mind as well: the Omisoka party at a TBA location will feature Jimmy Edgar, Kaytranada, young junglist Lee Bannon and a secret special guest, while Neon's soirée at the Théâtre Telus features a vibrant array of club sounds, including Ryan Hemsworth, Chromeo and Breakbot.
Tickets for both Stereo parties are available on their promoter page.
Vancouver
Techno heads will want to head to 1320 East Hastings to see Detroit's Carlos Souffront spin records from his legendary collection alongside Subversive residents and Rennie Foster. A handful of Vancouver's finest will gather at a secret location for the Prohibitions party, featuring Max Ulis, Taal Mala, and Woodhead, while Expendable Youth will head up another family affair for the two-room Blueprint x Re-Up party at Shine. If you just want a grand old shindig, Arrival's throwdown at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver should satisfy your desires, with a something for everyone in the lineup: Detroit's Kyle Hall will play backed up by sets from Egyptian Lover and Vancouver's own Cherchez La Femme and DJ Hedspin, plus all sorts of non-musical entertainment as well.
If you're in Victoria for the holiday week, then you won't want to miss Mathew Jonson playing as part of Cobblestone Jazz in his hometown for the first time in more than five years. His brother Hrdvsion will also make an appearance.