Outdoor skating returns to Stuart Park on Wednesday, kicks off with Mayor’s Food & Toy Drive

News Release

Winter is arriving and it’s almost time to glide into the season with free skating at Stuart Park. Preparations are currently underway to ensure the Stuart Park ice rink is in top condition and ready for everyone to enjoy. Beginning Wednesday, December 3, residents can once again enjoy outdoor skating on the rink daily through late February, weather permitting. The rink opens at 7 a.m. on December 3 but will be open from 6 a.m.- 11 p.m. daily for the rest of the season (closed for maintenance Mondays from 6 - 8 a.m.).

This year’s skating season will start off with a special event as Mayor Tom Dyas and Council are inviting residents to a Food & Toy Drive for the first skate when the rink opens. From 7-9 a.m. on December 3, residents are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or new, unwrapped toys to help families during the holiday season. Donations will support the Central Okanagan Food Bank and The Salvation Army.

“This event is a chance to enjoy one of Kelowna’s favourite winter traditions while helping our community,” said Mayor Dyas. “The Holidays are a season of giving, even a small donation can make a meaningful difference for a family this season.”

If you are unable to stay and skate but would still like to participate in the food & toy drive, there will be a drop-off zone from 7-9 a.m. beside the skating rink on Water Street. As this is an outdoor event, it is weather dependent.

A still-image live cam is available at kelowna.ca/stuartpark so residents can check ice conditions or see if the rink is closed for weather-related maintenance before they head to the rink. The live cam feed is updated every few minutes and is already live so residents can get a look at the ice-making process ahead of opening day.

Throughout the skating season, skates will be available to rent on-site from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily except for December 25, when the rental shop will be closed for the day. Visitors are reminded that equipment rentals are cash only, and weather permitting. All visitors to the rink are asked to abide by the rink regulations as posted on surrounding signs and are encouraged to wear helmets.

Drop in public skating is also available indoors at MNP Place, Memorial Arena and Rutland Arena. Visit kelowna.ca/skating for rates and more information.

Learn more about the Stuart Park outdoor rink or view the live cam at kelowna.ca/stuartpark.