Edmonton can expect a really big show downtown this New Year's Eve.

Not only is it the beginning of 2017, but it's also the start of Canada's 150th year since confederation.

On Friday, officials revealed how the city plans to celebrate both events on New Year's Eve.

The big change this year will be an extra fireworks display.

The first will happen at 8:30 p.m., to coincide with the arrival of New Year's in Newfoundland, which is three-and-a-half hours ahead of Edmonton.

The second fireworks show will take place at the more traditional time of midnight.

"We received some additional funding from the federal government, and as a result of that we're able to offer two fireworks shows," said Nicole Poirier, the city's director of civic events and partnerships.

Skating and balloon artists

Family-friendly events will be held that night, indoors at City Hall and outside in Sir Winston Churchill Square.

"We're going to be filling the square with artists and activities and balloon artists and skating for family and friends," Poirier said.

"So we're encouraging everybody to come out and help us celebrate what's going to be a fantastic kickoff to a year long celebration of Canada's 150th anniversary of confederation."

Students get ready to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday at city hall. (Nola Keeler/CBC)

Poirier said the event will be only the start of a series of celebrations for Canada's sesquicentennial in Edmonton.

She promised more activities on Canada Day and at The Works Festival, as well as a number of community-based celebrations.

Countdown to 150

Edmonton Centre MP Randy Boissonault was on hand Friday for the kickoff to New Year's and to help unveil a countdown clock.

He said he'll attend the festivities in Churchill Square and will be prepared for whatever weather Mother Nature throws our way that night.

"I'll be keeping warm with my red Canada Goose jacket, made in Canada," he said.

Transit to downtown will be free on New Year's eve. Regular parking rates will apply on city streets, though the library parkade will offer a special $1 rate for the evening after 5 p.m.



