The City is happy to announce that the Riverside Park Skating Loop is scheduled to open at 10:00 am on Friday, November 27, 2026, in conjunction with the second annual Kamloops Christmas Market. 

Starting November 27 (weather permitting), the loop will be open daily for free, unsupervised use throughout the winter season. Hours will be 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Sunday through Thursday and 10:00 am to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Fire pits will be roaring every Wednesday through Sunday afternoon and evening. The 2026/2027 season is expected to wrap up in March 2027, pending temperatures.

Get into the holiday spirit by lacing up your skates and gliding around the frozen loop, surrounded by twinkling lights, the warmth of a crackling fire, and the sounds of Christmas carols. While you're there, head to the Heritage House parking lot for the Christmas Market, presented by Kamloops Sports Council, and browse local artisans and small businesses offering Christmas-inspired gifts, handcrafted goods, and seasonal treasures. The market will also feature themed events and live music nightly until December 6.

“As we approach the second season of the Riverside Park Skating Loop, it’s heartwarming to see the incredible community support and enthusiasm this outdoor refrigerated skating facility has generated,” said Jeff Putnam, the City’s Parks and Streets Manager. 

“Opening the skating loop alongside the Kamloops Christmas Market is a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season and bring even more life and energy to our downtown, creating opportunities for people to come together, enjoy the events and amenities our city has to offer, and make lasting memories with family and friends.”

"We’re excited to deliver an even bigger and better Christmas Market experience in 2026, with more vendors, entertainment, activities, and opportunities for families to create lasting memories,” said Duncan Olthius, Executive Director for the Kamloops Sports Council.

“This event would not be possible without the tremendous support of the City of Kamloops, our sponsors, community partners, and volunteers. Together, we are building something truly special that we hope will become a cherished holiday tradition for years to come.”

Crews are preparing for the ice-making process, which will take some time. The ice chiller plant is expected to start up next week, weather permitting, provided outdoor temperatures remain at or below 8°C. During this process, parkgoers are asked to stay off the loop to ensure crews can work as efficiently as possible.

A few important reminders and safety tips about the skating loop:

• Helmets are strongly recommended for all skaters.
• Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Skate in a counterclockwise direction or follow the direction of flow.
• No sticks or pucks are permitted.
• While the Zamboni is cleaning the ice, please stay off and let our team smooth out the ice surface for better skating.
• The facility may close temporarily for maintenance, weather, or safety reasons. Signage will be posted.

Want to be a part of the fun, but don’t have the gear? Okanagan Affordable Rentals will again be on hand throughout the season, offering snacks, refreshments, and rentals of skates, helmets, and skating aids.

For more information on the facility, visit Kamloops.ca/RiversideSkating.