Toronto 
Events Description
The Bentway transforms into a uniquely urban winter wonderland with the December 16 opening of its 220 metre skate trail and experience a special, soaring art installation inspired by the glowing hues of the northern lights.
Alongside skating, perennial festive favourites return, including free skate rental nights, free hot chocolate nights, beginner skate lessons, the highly anticipated annual crowd-favourite Polar Bear Skate, and of course, Family Day fun in February.
New this year, see a colourful procession of woven arches stretch above the skate trail, bringing the magic and movement of the northern lights into the city. Inspired by the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis and the role of weaving in their cultures, Canadian artistic duo Yi Zhou and Carlos Portillo’s installation The Gateway accentuates the monumental architecture of the Gardiner with vibrant hues of green, blue, violet, and magenta.
HOW MUCH
Access to The Bentway is Free and Accessible.
Registration for the January 9, 16, and 23 lessons opens on January 3. Registration for the January 30, February 6 and 13 lessons open on January 18.
Rental Skates and Equipment:
Adult Skates: $12
Youth-sized Skates and Helmet: $10
Adult Helmet: $5
Youth Helmet: $5
Skate Sharpening: $10
Clothing:
Hats: $15
Gloves: $4.50
Socks: $4.50
Plus:
Hot Drinks: $3
Snacks: $3
Hand Warmers: $4
Laces: $4.50
WHEN & WHERE
Winter Skating Hours
December 16 – January 7, 2024 | Open Daily: 12:00pm – 9:00pm
January 8 – February 19, 2024 | Weekdays: 5:00pm-9:00pm
Weekends, holidays, and TDSB Elementary P.A. days: 12:00pm-9:00pm
Free Skate Lesssons: every Tuesday starting January 9, 2024.
Venue:
Public space under the Gardiner, stretching from Strachan Avenue to Bathurst Street.
The Bentway is a unique and innovative public space that transforms 1.75km underneath Toronto’s Gardiner Expressway, from Strachan Avenue to Bathurst Street.
The Bentway knits together seven local neighbourhoods with over 77,000 residents, becoming a gateway to the waterfront, while providing access to important attractions and destinations – from Fort York National Historic Site, Ontario Place and Exhibi-tion Place to Harbourfront Centre and the CN Tower.
Paid Parking Available:
– 800 Fleet St.
