It's real winter in Canada
This is confirmed by the opening of the continent's largest ice rink.
Ottawa's Rideau Canal, which turns into one of the world's largest ice rinks almost every winter, celebrated the start of its 54th season. Everyone is already welcome to go skating on any of the 7.8 kilometers track!
The Rideau Canal Ice Rink is a popular recreational destination for Canadians and visitors from January through March. In addition to skating, visitors can enjoy strolling along the canal, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kiosks with warm snacks, hot chocolate and various drinks add to the cozy and festive atmosphere.
Why didn't the skateway work last winter?
In 2023, the skateway never reopened to winter fun fans, a blow to the region both culturally and economically. It was the first time in the skateway's more than half-century history that it failed to welcome visitors.
For the safety of visitors and the opening of the skating rink on the Rideau Canal, it is required that the ice thickness reaches 30 cm, which is possible after 10-14 days of stable temperatures between -10 and -20 degrees Celsius. These standards ensure safe skating for everyone.
Climate change, according to years of warnings, threatens to shorten the season of the favorite winter pastime of locals and tourists. The company that maintains the rink has made efforts to adapt to the new conditions and was able to overcome the problems this year.
COVID-19 also imposed its restrictions on the last two skating seasons, but this time Ottawa residents and visitors can fully enjoy this favorite Canadian winter pastime.
