Holiday Skating in Metro Vancouver
Embark on a festive adventure with holiday skating at the forefront! Seeking a timeless winter activity with an added touch of holiday magic? Lace up those skates and glide through an icy winter wonderland, surrounded by the warmth and laughter of friends and family. Experience the joy of holiday skating, a perfect blend of tradition and merriment!
Favourite ice skating events & rinks this holiday season
Shipyards Skating Rink
December 1, 2023 until March 2024, North Vancouver
Situated within Shipyard Commons along the waterfront in North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale District, the Skate Plaza is an integral part of The Shipyards. This location boasts the largest outdoor skating rink in the region, spanning approximately 12,000 square feet. Admission is typically free for individuals with their own skates. Alternatively, affordable skate rentals are available for those without their own gear.
Robson Square
December 1 2023 – February 29 2024 Vancouver
It’s one of Vancouver’s best winter traditions and the perfect way to celebrate the season with your loved ones! Robson Square outdoor skating rink is open from the beginning of December 2023 until the end of February 2024 (winter temperatures permitting). Skate/helmet rentals are cash only, but admission and holiday magic are free! There will be free live entertainment day from December 13 to December 31.
Grouse Mountain Skating
Available now – April 2024 North Vancouver
Nothing beats skating outdoors on an 8,000 square foot mountaintop skating pond, surrounded by snow-capped trees on the top of Grouse Mountain. Open now until early Spring (be sure to check daily weather conditions).
PNE Winter Fair -Skating at Tim Hortons Ice Rink
December 8-9, 14-23 Vancouver
Delight in the pleasure of skating at the Tim Horton’s Ice Rink. The historic Agrodome undergoes a charming transformation into a timeless Canadian winter pond, inviting guests of all ages to revel in the joy of this iconic holiday pastime alongside friends and family.
Skate rental is available for $7, or you can bring your own skates and skate for free. For guests aged 12 and under, the use of helmets is mandatory. Please note that electric wheelchairs or scooters are not permitted on the ice.
Winterfest Holiday Rink
December 16 to January 1 2020 Burnaby
Sparkling Christmas lights, live Christmas trees, and a Dickens Village make the Winterfest Holiday Rink a special holiday experience. Runs until New Year’s Day at Canlan Ice Sports Burnaby 8 Rinks.
>> Winterfest
Winter Ice Palace
December 18, 2023 – January 7, 2024 Cloverdale
The Winter Ice Palace at Cloverdale Arena in Surrey dazzles with lights, decorations, and an old-fashioned pond. Bring your friends and check out the 24th annual Winter Ice Palace.
Glide on Ice
December 17, 2023 Vancouver
This annual free community skate at the Kerrisdale Arena is part of the Christmas in Kerrisdale December events. Free Skating Skate Rentals located at the Kerrisdale Arena.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Toonie Skate
December 23, 2023, Burnaby
Show off your moves while sporting your favourite tacky Christmas sweater! Enjoy face painting, reindeer games, and even a visit from Santa and his friends! This one day event takes place at Bill Copeland Sports Centre, Burnaby. Don’t miss out!
>> Ugly Christmas Sweater Toonie Skate
Skate and helmet rentals are available at each facility, but bring your own gloves, waterproof pants, and a cozy coat for little ones.
For extra fun on Christmas Day, several ice rinks across the city offer public skates for holiday skating for families, including Hillcrest, Kitsilano, Trout Lake, and West End Community Centre, North Delta,
Originally written by Jeanine Wasik and updated in 2023.
