City of St. John's not hosting fireworks this New Year's Eve

Deputy Mayor Ron Ellsworth says the city of St. John's is not putting off fireworks this New Year's Eve.

Instead, the city is hosting a special concert in celebration of Canada's 150 birthday in front of city hall with a light and laser show at midnight.

"We will have an event downtown on Dec. 31 that will happen here in front of city hall, in front of city hall steps, that will begin sometime early evening and carry on," Ellsworth said.

Before the concert the city will host skating at The Loop, which Ellsworth said almost 2,000 people attended last year.

"And then on Jan. 1 at 8 p.m. we will have fireworks at Quidi Vidi, which will allow families to enjoy both ends of the spectrum," Ellsworth said.

"For adults to get out and have lots of fun, but yet to have family fun time with their children and with younger kids involved."

Ellsworth and other members of council are clear this year's concert event is a one-off, supported by funding from the federal government through Canada 150.

"But there's nothing stopping a promoter or any businesses out there who want to come together, to do this on an annual basis."