Molson Coors offers free rides in Denver on New Year’s Eve

DENVER — Molson Coors Beverage Company will again offer fare-free transit on New Year’s Eve in Denver through its long-running Free Rides program, partnering with the Denver Regional Transportation District to help revelers get home safely.

From 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, to 7 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 1, RTD will operate Zero-Fare service for riders across the system, courtesy of Molson Coors.

“As revelers prepare to ring in 2026, our Free Rides program reflects our commitment to celebrating responsibly,” said Alison Hanrahan, community affairs manager at Molson Coors. “RTD is integral to how Denver stays connected, and we are proud to partner once again to help people get home safely on New Year’s Eve.”

Now in its 37th year, the Free Rides program partners with local transit agencies nationwide to promote alcohol responsibility and community connection. Since its launch in 1988, the initiative has provided more than 10 million free rides nationwide, including more than 440,000 in 2024. Ridership last year marked the program’s highest total to date, with overall participation up 24% from 2023.

“Ring in the new year without worrying about how you will get home,” RTD General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson said. “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.”

In addition to Denver, Molson Coors will offer fare-free New Year’s Eve rides through partnerships with local transit agencies in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Milwaukee, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. In Denver, the Free Rides program is presented by Coors Light.

The New Year’s Eve offering caps another year of Molson Coors’ Free Rides initiative. In 2025, the company sponsored free transit in cities nationwide for major celebrations, including St. Patrick’s Day and professional sporting events, with plans to continue the program into 2026.

Those planning to celebrate the arrival of 2026 are encouraged to plan ahead for a free ride to and from festivities. Riders can view routes and plan trips at rtd-denver.com.