It’s time to get out your skates Torontonians! The City of Toronto has once again opened up its popular Welcome T.O. Winter programme, which gives access to free public skating, beginner instructional hockey sessions and more. There are also opportunities for ringette and women’s shinny. There might still be a few more weeks left until the official start of winter but that doesn’t mean we can’t get in on some outdoor fun already.
Welcome T.O. Winter
Over the course of the coming two weeks, there will be 52 outdoor ice rinks operating throughout Toronto. For now, 38 rinks are open and set to stay until March 19th, 2023. Fourteen extra rinks will begin operating from December 3rd to February 26, 2023. You can access any of the rinks from 10 am to 10 pm.
There are some new things to look forward to as well with this year’s Welcome T.O. Winter. One of which is the ringette pilot programme for participants six years old and older. You don’t have to enrol in advance and you’ll be able to borrow equipment from select locations from next month.
More time slots at increased locations will be made available for women’s shinny. A new mobile Skate Lending Library at select outdoor ice rinks is also there to support those who are learning how to skate. It’s free and you can find more details about the locations online.
Cavalcade of Lights
Find the Nathan Phillips Square lit up with the Cavalcade of Lights until January 7th 2023. It’s complete with energy-efficient bulbs and a tree. Looking for other ways to enjoy cooler days outside? Toronto’s park amenities will stay open, allowing for a host of outdoor activities.