“With so many people running out of transportation options, this alcohol-free alternative provided a real service to thousands of Ottawa residents, especially this year during the transit strike,” said Chiarelli.

The event relies on private sector companies like its returning sponsor, Ikea, to survive. A “grafitti wall” at this year's event allowed hundreds of people to thank Ikea on a giant mural that will be sent to the company later this month.

“It's important that people learn at a young age that they should recognize and thank people who help make their community better. It's a good habit to start,” said Chiarelli.

People came from all parts of Ottawa to converge on Ben Franklin Place and ages ranged from one to 94. Some were part of the outdoor skating party. Some climbed aboard the good old fashioned free sleigh rides. Others took in the high calibre singing and dance exhibition. The younger people also enjoyed face painting and balloon animals – and some motivated attendees managed to do it all. When 10 o'clock rolled around (earlier than usual out of recognition of the tired little ones), exhausted partiers counted down to the new year triggering a spectacular fireworks display behind Mary Pitt Legacy Court in Centrepointe Park.

One of the quirkiest but most popular events of the evening is always the annual Ikea Furniture Assembly Competition. A handful of contestants are each given an identical piece of Ikea furniture and only an Allan Key with which to assemble it. At this year's competition, the audience of hundreds was divided into cheering sections, each rooting wildly for a specific competitor. This year marked the first time that a woman won the event over the rest of the field which was all male.

Chiarelli's annual alcohol-free family New Year's Eve event began almost two decades ago as an anti-impaired driving project in the former city of Nepean. It has grown steadily over the years thanks to the dedication of many people. Magician John Milks, singer Russell Lavia, the sleigh driving Smiths from Sundance Ranch, Bob Grant and city facilities staff and others have given up their New Year's Eve every single year to help make it all happen. Perhaps the most dedication is shown by Coun. Chiarelli's family (wife Lida and three daughters) and his office staff who spend, not just New Year's Eve, but most of their Christmas holidays preparing for the event and going door-to-door to thousands of homes to "get the word out".

“Our daughters have known no other kind of New Year's Eve,” said Chiarelli. “It started before any of them were born and they have been part of it every year of their lives.”