Skating Court at Lansdowne Park opens for its first season

The Skating Court at Lansdowne Park is now open for its first season. This is Ottawa’s third and newest refrigerated outdoor skating rink, joining the SENS RINK of Dreams and the rink at Ben Franklin Place.

“While it’s only the first season for the Skating Court, it already promises to be a huge draw for residents and tourists alike,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “It’s another new feature destined to further boost the park’s quickly growing reputation as a community destination and a people place for all seasons.”

The Skating Court will remain open until March 2015, weather permitting, and will be a hub throughout the winter, uniting residents from nearby communities as well as visitors. Skaters can take advantage of all Lansdowne has to offer, including Winterlude activities when the annual festival takes place in early 2015.

With the recently opened signalized crossing at Queen Elizabeth Drive and Fifth Avenue, skaters will also be able to move easily and safely from the Rideau Canal to Lansdowne Park, once the popular Skateway opens.

“While Lansdowne Park has undergone considerable change over the years, it continues to be an exciting gathering place, more so now than ever,” said Capital Ward Councillor David Chernushenko. “There is a long history of public skating at Lansdowne, and Aberdeen Pavilion was home of one of Ottawa’s earliest community rinks. The opening of the Skating Court really is carrying on a long tradition of skating at Lansdowne.”

The Skating Court at Lansdowne is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and a heated changing facility is available on site. Skaters need to bring their own skates as skate rental services are not available on site. Please note that certified multi-impact helmets are strongly recommended. Residents should check ottawa.ca to make sure the Skating Court is open.

Skating lessons will be offered on the outdoor rink from January 4 to February 8 for children 4 and up. Registration is available at ottawa.ca/recreation .