There's only one place to go in downtown Vancouver if you want to lace up your skates and hit the ice while being outdoors, and that's Robson Square.
The beloved venue, which draws over 100,000 skaters annually, offers free skating each winter, and the season is now underway.
Robson Square's ice skating rink opened Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, and will operate daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. until Feb. 28, 2025, with some changes to hours on holidays.
While it's free to get on the ice, you'll have to bring your own skates. Skate rentals are available for $5 and include a helmet. Skaters take note, helmets are mandatory for kids 12 and under.
On Family Day (Feb. 17, 2025), the province will support free skate rentals at the popular rink.
For those looking for a little extra fun, Robson Square's rink will have live music nightly from Dec. 13 through Dec. 24. There are theme nights planned in January and February.
The venue first opened in 1982 and was closed from 1991 to 2009, before undergoing renovations and re-opening in time for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
Skaters can enjoy hot chocolate and snacks purchased from the rink's concession stand. Skate sharpening and ice cleats are available for a fee.
Robson Square Ice Rink
When: Daily from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. from Nov. 29, 2024 to Feb. 28, 2025 (holiday hours vary)
Where: Robson Square - 800 Robson St
Cost: Free. $5 skate rental
