RTD and Molson Coors Offer Free Rides Across Denver on New Year’s Eve

For the 17th consecutive year, the Regional Transportation District (RTD) is offering Zero Fare on New Year’s Eve in partnership with Molson Coors, providing Denver-area residents and visitors with a safe and convenient way to celebrate the holiday. From 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31, through 7 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1, all RTD bus and rail routes, as well as Access-a-Ride and FlexRide services, will be free of charge.

Molson Coors’ Free Rides initiative, launched in 1988, has now provided nearly 10 million rides nationwide, including more than 440,000 rides in 2024 alone. In addition to Denver, the program will run in partnership with local transit agencies in cities including Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Milwaukee, Phoenix, and Washington D.C.

RTD is encouraging riders to use its Next Ride app to plan trips, confirm schedules, and check final departure times on New Year’s Eve. The agency will run its standard Monday-Thursday service, but customers should be aware of potential disruptions due to the City and County of Denver’s fireworks shows at 9 p.m. and midnight on 16th Street. While the 16th Street FreeRide service will operate a normal schedule as crowds allow, service will pause during both fireworks displays.

Debra A. Johnson, RTD’s General Manager and CEO, said:

“Ring in the new year without worrying about how you will get home. Thanks to RTD’s continued partnership with Molson Coors, the entire transit system will be fare-free on New Year's Eve, so customers can focus on celebrating safely. Let us handle the driving while you enjoy the evening. The agency’s dedicated team will be there to take you wherever you need to go."

Alison Hanrahan, Molson Coors Community Affairs Manager, added:

“To ensure that those celebrating in Denver have a reliable ride, we are excited to activate the Free Rides program once again across the U.S. this New Year’s Eve. In collaboration with RTD, we are looking forward to fostering community and fellowship as we ring in the New Year.”

Riders are reminded to check schedules and the Next Ride app for updated departure times, particularly after midnight, to ensure a smooth journey home.

Image: RTD