A huge gathering of Calgarians all came out to the downtown core to ring in the New Year, and all the planned event went off very well.
People got to enjoy musical perfornances, light shows, ice carving demonstrations, and they even got the chance to strap on the skates for some ice skating, all free of charge.
One man who brought his family says the event was great for his kids to get out and experience the party scene.
"It's great that they're doing the countdown early, I mean, it's good for the kids to experience it."
One parent said the event was perfect for his kids too. "We got to experience the event inside, and then come outside for the rest," said Tony Howes. "It's just a family friendly atmosphere."
Another man said his kids had a lot of fun at the event as well, with the bouncy castle indoors and then the live music and lights out in the plaza.
He says the early countdown was great too. "It's great to go home and put the kids to bed and have a relaxing evening."
Other events took place at Olympic Plaza, and the Calgary Zoo also hosted their sold-out Zoo Year's Eve.
