2026 Community Outdoor Ice Rinks applications now open

The City of St. Catharines is now accepting applications from volunteer groups interested in hosting outdoor ice skating in their neighbourhoods this winter. Now in its eighth season, the City’s Community Outdoor Ice Rinks program enables volunteer community groups to build, operate, and maintain ice rinks in City-owned 
parks. Previous volunteer-run rinks have been located at Partridge Park, Bogart Street Park, St. Patrick’s Park, Walker’s Creek Park, and Port Dalhousie Lions Park.

“Our volunteers are the real champions of neighbourhood winter fun, and these City programs help them bring local parks to life,” said Kaylea Cassano, Supervisor, Community Initiatives and Partnerships. “We’re thrilled to back these volunteer crews with up to $1,000 to build spaces where residents can lace up their skates, hang out, and stay active right in their own neighbourhoods. It’s all about teamwork, staying 
active, enjoying the outdoors, and making the most of the season together.”

Volunteer groups may apply to use most City parks, provided it offers a reasonably flat surface, has adequate lighting and parking, and access for emergency vehicles. One outdoor ice rink is permitted per ward. Groups must be prepared to build, operate, and maintain the rink throughout the season. Applicants do not need to be incorporated charities or not-for-profit groups, but they must allow community members free and equal access to outdoor ice rinks. Volunteers are responsible for sourcing all materials needed to build, operate, and maintain the ice rink, including boards, tarps, shovels, scrapers, and water, and must be prepared to store all the equipment.

The City will provide signage and training sessions on rink construction and reporting requirements. The City will support as many as six rink locations, with grants of up to $1,000 available per rink to help offset costs.

Applications are now open and are due by Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. Successful applicants will be notified. The outdoor rink season will run from Dec. 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027.

For more information and to apply, visit www.stcatharines.ca/OutdoorRinks.