Ottawa's iconic Rideau Canal Skateway will welcome skaters for the first time this winter season on New Year's Eve, offering a festive way to ring in 2026. The National Capital Commission (NCC) announced that a 3.4-kilometre section will open to the public at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, December 31.
Skating Route and Initial Amenities
The initial opening segment will run from the Somerset Street West access point to the Bank Street Bridge. This provides a substantial stretch for residents and visitors to enjoy a classic Canadian winter experience on the world's largest skating rink.
To enhance the outing, the NCC confirmed that BeaverTail stands and rest areas will be operational at the Fifth and Concord locations starting on opening day. Skate rentals will be available at the Fifth Avenue access point, catering to those who need equipment. The commission noted that other vendors are scheduled to open later in the week.
Important Closures and Access Notes
Skaters should note a few key changes and closures for this season. The Bank Street stairs will not be open immediately upon the skateway's launch, as stated by the NCC on social media.
In a more significant seasonal closure, the Patterson Creek skating area will be closed for the entire winter due to the rehabilitation of the Patterson Creek Bridge. To mitigate the impact, a temporary staircase has been installed near Monkland Avenue to provide alternative access in that area.
Weather Conditions and Future Openings
The timely opening was made possible by favorable December weather. "The cold weather in December provided ideal conditions for our operations," the NCC stated in its announcement. The commission's teams have been working diligently to prepare the ice, and they urged the public to stay off the ice until the official opening time.
The NCC also provided optimism for more skating soon, adding, "More sections of the Skateway should open as soon as ice conditions permit." This suggests that the popular winter attraction could expand in the coming days and weeks, depending on continued cold temperatures.
This New Year's Eve opening marks a cherished tradition for the capital, allowing people to literally skate from one year into the next on a UNESCO World Heritage site.
