The Bentway’s wildest winter tradition returns! Brave Torontonians are invited to strip down to their skivvies and skate the trail as a bold way to close out the year.
Polar Bear Skate is now sold out! Current registrants may cancel their tickets, so check Eventbrite for any tickets that become available. Didn’t get a ticket? You can still come cheer on participants and contribute to the clothing drive!
Gather your most courageous cold-weather friends and end 2024 with a cheeky spin around our figure-eight skate trail under the Gardiner! The event is free to attend, but please register in advance as space is limited.
Bring your skates or get a complimentary rental pair courtesy of event sponsors Home Network and Flavour Network. They’ll also be providing free hot beverages and cookies (while supplies last).
Donations of warm winter clothing will be collected onsite by New Circles Community Services and distributed to local individuals and families who are living on a limited income. Help us help neighbours in need this holiday season.
Not up for the chill? You can still come cheer on participants and contribute to the clothing drive. This is a unique experience not to miss!
Additional Details
- This event will take place entirely outdoors at The Bentway Skate Trail.
- The Polar Bear Skate is one of our most popular events. Please only participate if you feel comfortable skating with a large group of people.
- Photography, video, and audio recording may occur. By participating in the Polar Bear Skate, you consent to such recording and to the release, publication, exhibition or reproduction of these recordings and photographs.
- This event will go ahead rain/snow or shine, however for the safety of all participants it will not proceed if the temperature is -20°C or below.
- Free skate rentals while supplies last; first-come, first-served throughout opening hours.
Please note: All participants must sign a waiver on-site before taking part in the Polar Bear Skate. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian. Waivers will be at the yellow check-in tent.
Clothing Donations
Donations of warm winter clothing will be collected onsite by New Circles Community Services. Items most in need are: winter jackets, winter boots, winter accessories (mitts, hats, etc.) and men’s clothing. For more information about clothing donations, click here.
event sponsors
This event is funded in part by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
