Vancouver doesn’t freeze over, so outdoor skating here means purpose-built rinks: one under the glass roof of Robson Square, one at a Christmas market on the North Shore waterfront, and a frozen pond on top of a mountain. A couple of them are free. Here’s where to skate this Christmas.
Outdoor Rinks at a Glance
| Rink | Where | 2026 season | Cost to skate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robson Square | Downtown Vancouver | Reopens December 2026 | Free |
| The Shipyards | North Vancouver | During the market, Nov 27 to Dec 24 | Free |
| Grouse Mountain pond | North Vancouver | Nov 20 to Dec 24 (Peak of Christmas) | With mountain admission |
| Surrey Civic Plaza | Surrey | Nov 21 and 22 (tree lighting weekend) | Free |
| Starlight Skating, Harrison | Harrison Hot Springs | During Lights by the Lake | Free |
Robson Square (Downtown Vancouver)
The downtown classic, under the glass domes beside the Art Gallery, and it’s been part of Vancouver’s winter since 1982. Skating is free; skate rentals cost extra. The rink plans to reopen in December 2026; exact dates and hours aren’t out yet. Last season it ran from November 28 to February 28, daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with shorter hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Full details: Robson Square ice rink.
The Shipyards (North Vancouver)
The outdoor rink at the Shipyards is part of the Shipyards Christmas Market, free from 12:00 to 8:00 PM during the market. Bring your own skates or rent on site. Skate, then grab a hot drink at the chalets. It’s a 12-minute SeaBus ride from downtown.
Grouse Mountain
Skating on a mountaintop pond, often surrounded by snow, is the most Christmas-card option near the city. It’s included with mountain admission; skate rentals are $10 for adults and $6 for kids during The Peak of Christmas. More mountain fun: Christmas on Grouse, Cypress and Seymour.
Outside the City
- Surrey Civic Plaza: free skating from 12:00 to 7:40 PM on November 21 and 22, during the Surrey Tree Lighting Festival.
- Harrison Hot Springs: the Starlight Skating rink is part of Lights by the Lake.
- Whistler Olympic Plaza: outdoor skating in the village. See Christmas in Whistler.
Indoor Public Skating
On a really wet day, an indoor rink is the better bet. Most community rinks in Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond and the other cities run public skates over the holidays, including the Richmond Olympic Oval. Schedules change over Christmas week, so check your city’s recreation site for holiday public skating times.
Skating Tips
- Go early on weekends. Robson Square and the Shipyards get busy by mid-afternoon.
- Bring gloves. Kids, especially, will want to touch the ice.
- Helmets are a good idea for little skaters. Some rinks rent them.
- Outdoor rinks close for heavy rain or mild weather now and then. Check before you head out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is skating at Robson Square free?
Yes. Skate rentals cost extra.
When does Robson Square open for 2026?
It plans to reopen in December 2026. Dates haven’t been announced yet.
Where can I skate outdoors on the North Shore?
At the Shipyards in North Vancouver, free during the Christmas market, and on the pond at the top of Grouse Mountain.
Part of: Vancouver Christmas Guide 2026 › Free Christmas Things to Do in Vancouver
