With a chill in the air and snow on the ground, it won’t be long until we’re able to hit the rink. This year, however, Olympic Plaza in Calgary, Alberta will not see ice, but there’s good news!

Plaza Palooza at Olympic Plaza

Due to the upcoming closure of the plaza, Calgary’s most iconic skating rink will not get filled or freeze over.

Instead, the city will host the ‘Plaza Palooza’ and an exciting event with live performances, a DJ and a dance floor, stilt walkers, living statues, fire breathers, and a Calgary ’88 Winter Olympics video—courtesy of Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame.

In addition, there will also be Carnival games like Box Hockey, Cornhole, and Mini Golf set up for your entertainment, and on-site firepits will be lit to keep your hands and toes toasty warm.

Still want to go for an inner-city glide?

You’re in luck!

Barb Scott Park

Photo via City of Calgary

Named in honour of an alderman who served on city council for 24 years, Barb Scott Park is located just off 12th Avenue.

Here, you can take a stroll, take a deep breath, or snap a few photos next to the Chinook Arc, which illuminates the area.

What’s more, this winter, the park will have an outdoor skating rink, which will feature a giant glowing Christmas tree.

Opening day will depend on the weather, so get ready and get set.

It won’t be long until it’s lit up for the season.

Until then, consider practicing your moves on an indoor rink. 

You’ve got a tree to impress!

Barb Scott Park, Outdoor Skating Rink – Calgary, Alberta

When: TBA 2025
Where: 12 Avenue and 9 Street S.W.

Cassandra Stefanic

Regional Editor, Prairies –Cassandra is a Calgary-based journalist with a deep appreciation for music, film, food, travelling, and storytelling. When she’s not chasing a story, writing, or editing, you’ll likely find her in the mountains, binge-watching a new series, at a speakeasy, cooking, or getting lost in a Taylor Swift re-record.

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