The city may not be covered in a wintry blanket of snow just yet, but it's still the right time of year to head downtown to experience Vancouver's free outdoor ice skating rink.
Opening for the season on Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, and offering free skating sessions through Feb. 29, 2024, the Robson Square ice rink has long been a part of the joy of late fall and winter in Vancouver.
Robson Square's ice skating rink is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, weather permitting, though hours on Christmas Eve will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Christmas Day 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Getting on the ice is always free of charge - though every skater must sign a waiver. Helmets are mandatory for skaters 12 and under.
If you don't have your own skates, rentals are available for $5 and come with a helmet, making the ice rink an affordable seasonal activity to enjoy in Vancouver.
To make the most of the outdoor skating experience, the concessions stand has hot chocolate and snacks for purchase.
There will also be live music nightly from Dec. 13 until Christmas Eve (Dec. 24).
"Vancouver's winters are special, and the Robson Square ice rink has been a cornerstone of that magic for years," said Lisa Beare, Minister of Citizens' Services, in a media release.
Each season, over 100,000 visitors lace up their skates and hit the ice at Robson Square.
The Robson Square ice skating rink first opened in 1982.
Outdoor ice skating at Robson Square
When: Dec. 1, 2023-Feb. 29, 2024 from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. (weather permitting)
Where: Robson Square - 800 Robson St
Cost: Admission is free; skate + helmet rentals $5
