Ottawa residents and visitors can lace up their skates for a classic winter experience as the entire Rideau Canal Skateway is set to open on Monday, January 5, 2026. The full opening coincides with a chilly forecast from Environment Canada, predicting a cold and snowy day for the national capital.
A Winter Welcome on the UNESCO Site
The iconic skateway, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be fully accessible to the public. This marks a key moment in Ottawa's winter season, following a partial opening that allowed skaters to enjoy the canal as early as New Year's Eve, December 31, 2025. The sight of skaters gliding along the frozen canal has long been a defining image of an Ottawa winter.
Bundling Up for the Conditions
Those planning to take to the ice should prepare for classic Canadian winter weather. Environment Canada's forecast for Monday calls for cold temperatures and snowfall in Ottawa. The conditions are typical for early January in the region and are precisely what allows for the maintenance and safe operation of the world's largest skating rink.
The operation of the Skateway is highly dependent on sustained cold weather to achieve and maintain ice of sufficient thickness and quality. The successful opening of the full length indicates that these conditions have been met, promising a long season for skating enthusiasts.
A Capital Tradition Continues
The full opening of the Rideau Canal Skateway is a much-anticipated event each year, symbolizing the heart of winter recreation in the city. It provides a unique, free activity for families, tourists, and athletes alike, transforming the historic canal into a vibrant public space.
With the forecast ensuring ideal ice-preserving weather, the stage is set for a bustling day on the canal. Officials encourage skaters to check official conditions before heading out and to dress warmly in layers to fully enjoy this beloved outdoor adventure in the midst of Ottawa's winter landscape.
