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.
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
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The Gateway
toA 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.
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Winter Skating
toThe Bentway is pleased to welcome back neighbours and fun-seekers for one of winter’s best activities, outdoor ice skating under the Gardiner! Skaters are invited to cruise our 220m figure-eight skate trail, surrounded by colourful woven arches inspired by the northern lights. Skate rentals available. For our sixth year, perennial festive favourites return, including free skate rental…
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Polar Bear Skate
The Bentway’s wildest winter tradition returns! Brave Torontonians are invited to strip down to their skivvies and skate the trail for a good cause. Our annual Polar Bear Skate is both a clothing drive and a bold way to close out the year. The event is free to attend – just bring your skates and…
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Free Skate Lessons
Tuesdays from January 9 – February 13Still learning how to skate? Our expert instructors will help novice skaters build essential skills on the ice every Tuesday starting January 9, 2024. These lessons are provided free-of-charge for youth and adults. Spaces are limited; if you register and can no longer attend, please let us know so someone else can have the opportunity. Each…
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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,…
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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.
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Family Day at The Bentway
Celebrate Family Day at The Bentway with a fun-filled afternoon of skating, crafts, music, refreshments, and more! We’ve teamed up with the Bata Shoe Museum to offer activities for the whole family that celebrate the history of skating, inspired by their online exhibition Boots and Blades: The Story of Canadian Figure Skating. Learn about figure skating in…
supporters
The Bentway’s Winter 2023-24 season is generously supported by:
