It may be a little early to start lacing up your skates—unless you are really, really slow at tying laces— but it is time to pull them out of storage and get then sharpened up for the winter season.
The City of Kelowna has announced it has started the process of re-creating the free, outdoor skating rink in Stuart Park downtown.
And, it says, the rink should be ready for use by Dec. 1.
The city said Friday skaters should be able to step on the ice starting at 10 a.m. Dec. 1, and from then through to late February, the rink will be open for free public skating—weather conditions permitting—from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
“This is the sixth season that we’ve been able to offer this great opportunity for both residents and visitors to stay active outdoors through the winter season,” said Steve Fagan, city arenas and stadiums supervisor.
“The ice-making is already underway this week and we’re looking forward to another great season on the ice.”
Residents can watch the ice-making process through the still-image webcam on the city’s website (kelowna.ca).
Anyone planning to head to the rink is also reminded to check the webcam before heading out to check ice conditions or see if the rink is closed for maintenance.
The webcam feed is updated every few minutes and the maintenance schedule will be posted online.
Skates, helmets and EZ bars are available to rent on site daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the skating season, except on Christmas Day.
The public is asked to abide by the rink regulations as posted on surrounding signs and are encouraged to wear helmets.
For those looking for a rink closer to their neighbourhood, the Capital News Centre, Memorial Arena and Rutland Arena will also have public skating times over the winter.
For more information about active living and culture programs and facilities, including public skating times at other ice rinks, or to check out the Stuart Park rink webcam, visit kelowna.ca/recreation.
