Get ready to lace up your skates, Toronto – skating season has arrived!
As of this weekend, the City of Toronto has officially begun opening its more than 50 outdoor artificial ice rinks and skating trails for the 2025-2026 winter season, working on a phased approach.
The initial rollout of rinks began yesterday on Saturday, November 29, 2025, with a number of artificial ice rinks opening their doors to eager skaters this past weekend. Following this first wave, the majority of the City’s outdoor rinks are scheduled to be open by Saturday, December 6, 2025.
The season is generally expected to run from late November until March, although this is subject to weather conditions. Popular early opening spots include well-known locations like Nathan Phillips Square, Colonel Samuel Smith Skating Trail, and Greenwood Park.
Before heading out to your local rink, it’s a good idea to check the status of your chosen rink on the City of Toronto website beforehand, as heavy snow or unseasonably warm temperatures can cause temporary closures. The website will also list the rink’s hours and current conditions.
All drop-in public leisure skate programs at city-operated outdoor rinks are offered completely free of charge. The City is also continuing its partnership to offer the mobile Skate Lending Library this year, which allows residents to borrow skates, helmets, and skate aids at no cost at designated times and locations across the city.
Furthermore, adaptive devices, such as sledges, are available for people with disabilities at both indoor and outdoor rinks and can be booked in advance.
Many of the city’s outdoor rinks also provide a variety of activities, including Public Leisure Skating, Figure Skating, Shinny and Ringette, and instructional programs.
Time to embrace the colder weather and glide into some winter fun!