Outdoor skating returns

For many, the return of Jack Frost means it’s time to lace up the skates and enjoy outdoor ice skating.

The Markham Civic Centre Outdoor Ice Rink is now open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. except Wednesdays when it’s open from noon to 10 p.m. Holiday hours are as follows: Tuesday, Dec. 24 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.); Wednesday, Dec. 25 (closed); Thursday, Dec. 26 (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.); Tuesday, Dec. 31 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.); and Wednesday, Jan. 1 (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.).

Admission is free. Skate rentals are available by Markham Skate Rentals on Thursdays and Fridays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Since the ice surface is exposed to the elements, there will be occasions when the city must repair the ice before skating is permitted. The season will be open through March 16, 2025, weather and ice conditions permitting.

Once the frigid days become more consistent, the outdoor rinks at Milliken Mills, Victoria Square and Huntington Parks will be open from sunrise to 10 p.m. Enjoy pickup hockey from sunrise to 10 a.m., recreational skating from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., pickup hockey from 1 to 3 p.m., recreational skating from 3 to 7 p.m. and pickup hockey from 7 to 10 p.m. The rinks will be lit from 5 until 10 p.m. The outdoor rinks at the Markham Museum and Milne Dam will be open from sunrise to dusk. Enjoy pickup hockey from sunrise to 10 a.m., recreational skating from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., pickup hockey from 12 to 2 p.m., and recreational skating from 2 p.m. to sundown. Visit markham.ca to check ice conditions before you visit any outdoor rink to avoid disappointment. All outdoor rinks are free. 

Skaters are being reminded to stay off ponds, stormwater ponds and waterways as the ice is unsafe.

Photo: Markham Civic Centre Outdoor Ice Rink (City of Markham photo)