IMPORTANT MESSAGE
Harbourfront Centre is disappointed to announce that serious infrastructure issues have forced the closure of its iconic outdoor waterfront rink this winter.
We are also deeply disappointed that we must cancel our 2020–21 skating season, including our Learn to Skate program, as we were all looking forward to getting outside and skating on one of the most beautiful rinks in the city.
Harbourfront Centre’s rink has for many years delighted and pleased skaters of all talents. Free public skating has been provided for decades, creating a safe space open to all. The Learn to Skate program has produced thousands of young skaters, many of whom have grown up in the downtown core. The Rink has also been host to extremely successful DJ Skate Nights, highlighting the talents of local artists.
While Harbourfront Centre had great hopes for opening the rink in a Covid-safe manner, embracing all Health and Safety protocols and procedures, the operating system infrastructure that ensures a consistent rink surface throughout the season has failed after 37 years of operation. The operating system is part of a broader capital asset life-cycle management plan that forecast the entire rink for upgrade and replacement. It will involve removing the concrete foundation and replacing all the pipe and infrastructure required to maintain a consistent ice surface.
This will require immediate capital funding. The weather sensitivity of the concrete rebuilds means the majority of the work, if funded, will take place in spring 2021. We hope to welcome you all back to Harbourfront Centre’s rink next winter season.
In the meantime, Harbourfront Centre will embrace other digitally focused installations and activations throughout the approaching winter, which will bring life to the site and our waterfront. Together, we will endure the pandemic and look forward to the better days of 2021.
Address
Rink Hotline
416 954 9866
Type
Outdoor venue
Disclaimer
Patrons using the Rink do so at their own risk and voluntarily assume all risk associated with any sport or event. Harbourfront Centre does not accept responsibility for related risks or injuries. Please read the Rink Rules and Prohibited Activities here.
Promotional
Opportunities
Accessibility
The Harbourfront Centre Rink recognizes and accepts the Access 2 Entertainment Card. Complimentary skate rentals are offered to assistance companions.
Use of assistive devices (with the exclusion of sticks of any form) will be permitted dependent on time of day and busyness of the rink. It is recommended that patrons check with rink staff before use of any assistive devices so that staff can monitor and assist where possible.
Wheelchair accessibility can be accommodated with advance notice and booking by phone at 416 954 9866 or via email. Please note that only non-motorized wheelchairs are permitted on the ice.
Support persons will be allowed on the ice as long as they are wearing skates.
Service animals are not permitted on the ice for the safety of the animal and other patrons using the rink.
