Winter 2023 at The Bentway

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Dec 2023 – Feb 2024

Winter is back at The Bentway! We’re pleased to welcome neighbours and fun-seekers for ice skating, the return of our signature Polar Bear Skate, free workshops, family programming, art, and more.  

Artist rendering of weaving installation installed under the Gardiner with people skating under it.
The Gateway render by Carlos Portillo and Yi Zhou

Skaters are invited to cruise our 220m figure-eight skate trail under the Gardiner from December 16, 2023 through February 19, 2024. We have special opening hours for the holidays, and in the new year our popular free rentals nights and skating lessons return.

New this year, a colourful procession of woven arches stretch across the skate trail, bringing 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.  

Mark your calendars for winter’s wildest tradition, Polar Bear Skate, on December 31, as well as Family Day festivities on February 19.

See you on the trail!     

Full Program

  • The Gateway
    to

    A colourful procession of woven arches stretch across The Bentway’s Skate Trail, bringing the northern lights into the city. 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.

  • Two hands weaving neon green thread against a white background.
    Weaving Workshop

    Inspired by The Bentway’s winter installation, The Gateway, and its theme of weaving community together in the cold winter months, this hands-on workshop will provide an opportunity for individuals of all skill levels to learn the fundamentals of weaving and contribute to the creation of a large-scale tapestry. Come warm up indoors, meet your neighbours,…

  • Northern lights behind tall trees.
    Northern Lights Astronomy  

    The Bentway’s winter installation, The Gateway, celebrates the brilliance of the northern lights, which are at their most vibrant in the depths of winter. Join astronomer Dr. Laurie Rousseau-Nepton for an evening of learning and traditional oral storytelling rooted in her Innu culture.

supporters

The Bentway’s Winter 2023-24 season is generously supported by: