Mark your calendar! We’re pleased to be hosting our annual Winter Pop-Up events again on Sunday, January 26, and Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 1 – 4 pm. Enjoy free entertainment, skating and community connection in the heart of U/D’s Central Commons Park. Plus, don’t miss the Great Canadian Kilt Skate – Calgary, a unique celebration of Scottish heritage on ice. Read on for all of the important details.
Hit the rink at the Winter Pop-Ups! Skates are available for rent onsite at The Skate Hut.
January 26 Winter Pop-Up: Live Ice Carving
Make the most of the winter season with an exciting day at Central Commons Park. On January 26 from 1 – 4 p.m., experience the artistry of Julian Lee as he showcases his skills in a live ice carving demonstration at the West Pavilion of Central Commons Park. While you’re at the Winter Pop-Up, lace up your skates and enjoy laps around the Central Commons Park Ice rink, or cozy up next to the fire features. Treat yourself to complimentary s’mores kits (available while supplies last) and soak in the lively atmosphere with music from DJ GOODBAR.
Ice Carver Julian Lee sculpting a massive block of ice at the 2024 Winter Pop-Up.
Meet Julian Lee
Nicknamed Iceman Julian, he is a talented visual artist with over two decades of sculpting experience. Known for his expertise in various mediums—including styrofoam, clay, stone, wood, ice and even pumpkins. Julian loves to embrace the cold, chipping away to reveal the figure within each ice block, creating captivating works of art for audiences of all ages.
February 9 Great Canadian Kilt Skate – Calgary**
Join the St. Andrew-Caledonian Society of Calgary at the U/D outdoor skating rink for the Great Canadian Kilt Skate – Calgary!
There’s more than just skating to enjoy—warm up with performances by the Calgary Caledonian Choir, Highland dancers, bagpipers and a Celtic folk band. It’s a celebration packed with traditional Scottish flair that will keep your spirits high and your toes tapping. Public skating will still be available during the event. Kilts are not required.
For more information, visit here.
**Due to weather conditions, The Great Canadian Kilt Skate – Calgary will now take place on February 17, 2025 from 12 – 3 pm
Don your kilts and celebrate Scottish heritage at the Great Canadian Kilt Skate – Calgary in Central Commons Park.
February 16 Winter Pop-Up: Sledge Hockey with AdaptAbility
We’re back on Sunday, February 16, 2025 from 1 – 4 pm with more outdoor winter activities, including an educational and inspiring sledge hockey demonstration hosted by AdaptAbility.
Learn the skill of sledge hockey with support from AdaptAbility.
Not only can you watch the action—you can join in. AdaptAbility team members will be onsite to guide you through the basics of sledge hockey. This inclusive sport has been rapidly growing in popularity in recent years and offers players of diverse abilities a chance to experience the thrill of the game in a whole new way.
After your skating adventure, cozy up by the wood-burning fire pits and fire features and enjoy a complimentary cup of hot chocolate, courtesy of AdaptAbility. And of course, no Winter Pop-Up would be complete without our s’mores kits (while supplies last), lively music and plenty of skating fun.
About AdaptAbility
Located on Retail Main Street in University District, AdaptAbility is a locally owned gem and proud winner of the 2024 Calgary Chamber’s Small Business of the Year award. Founded by Tara Nelson, a parent inspired to take action after struggling to find clothing and essentials for her child with autism spectrum disorder. This unique shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of clothing, toys, daily living essentials, and educational aids, all designed specifically for individuals with special needs.
Skate Hut
Conveniently located at Central Commons Park next to the rink, The Skate Hut offers skates, helmets, and skating aids for rent, catering to both children and adults. Ice skates are available in a wide range of sizes, from toddler size 7 to men’s size 16, ensuring the perfect fit for everyone. For more details, visit here.
To learn more about the upcoming events at U/D, check out our events page.
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