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When Do Outdoor Rinks Open in Toronto?

With the arrival of the colder months, Toronto transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of outdoor activities that embrace the crisp climate. Among these, outdoor ice skating is a quintessentially Torontonian pastime that's widely enjoyed by both locals and visitors. This article will explore Toronto's outdoor skating scene, providing insights into when outdoor rinks open in the city.

Schedule Variations

Outdoor rink opening dates in Toronto depend on the varied schedules of individual facilities. Below, we explore some of Toronto's famed outdoor rinks, their general opening schedules, and the exhilarating experiences they offer.

Nathan Phillips Square

A hub of exhilarating energy, Nathan Phillips Square typically opens its outdoor ice rink in mid-November. The rink's winter season often extends until mid-March, depending on the weather. Adding to the magic, the square is home to a towering Christmas tree and a spectacle of holiday lights, making it an enchanting venue for a family outing or a romantic date.

The Bentway

The Bentway, a unique outdoor rink woven under the city's Gardiner Expressway, usually opens doors to ice skaters in early December. The Bentway offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines art, culture, and physical activity in Toronto's glowing urban backdrop until late February or early March.

High Park

Will Grenadier Pond in High Park become the city's next official outdoor ice rink? While it's already a popular spot for unsanctioned skating, the pond's status as a rink hangs in the balance until further safety assessments. Until then, skaters are advised to stay off the ice and wait for official word from the City of Toronto.

Weather Dependent Openings

The opening of Toronto's outdoor rinks is significantly influenced by weather conditions. While artificial cooling technology helps maintain ice at the city's major rinks, smaller neighbourhood rinks are dependent on Mother Nature. Early winter temperature drops can lead to earlier openings, while milder seasons can result in delayed skating opportunities.

COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed a new set of challenges on outdoor recreation. Rink opening dates and operational guidelines might be impacted due to public health restrictions, reduced capacity mandates, and the need for physical distancing protocols. It's always advised to check the latest updates from the City of Toronto or the specific rink's website.

Conclusion

While the outdoor rinks in Toronto generally open from mid-November to early December, it's important to consider factors such as the weather and current public health guidelines. Regardless, once they're open, these rinks offer a delightful winter experience, blending sport, socialization, and the vibrant life of one of Canada's greatest cities.

References

City of Toronto. (n.d.) Skating: Outdoor Rinks. Retrieved from: https://toronto.ca

Nathan Phillips Square. (n.d.). History. Retrieved from: https://nathanphillipssquare.ca

The Bentway. (n.d.). Winter Season. Retrieved from: https://www.thebentway.ca