For Buffalonians, winter weather is part of life. Instead of retreating indoors, many bundle up and face the cold conditions head-on. There’s no better place than Canalside at the Buffalo Waterfront to embrace the winter season. Located at the 1825 terminus of the Erie Canal just off the Metro Rail line, Canalside has become one of Buffalo’s epicenters for activities and events all season, so you can count on there being lots of fun for the whole family.
Ice Skating
The Ice at Canalside has become a beloved Buffalo pastime in recent years, especially for downtown ice skating. The Canalside ice rink is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday throughout late fall and winter. Mondays are closed to the public but open for league and private party reservations. After paying an entrance fee, guests can hit the ice with their own skates or rent a pair right at the rink. Visitors who need to warm or rest up can sit back and relax with snacks and warm drinks from Nosh & Nibble Snack Shack, located at the rink.
Other Activities On The Ice
Ice Bikes
If you’re not the best on ice skates but want to join in on the fun, Ice Bikes of Buffalo™ is a great alternative. Riders can rent out these stabilized bike units that let you easily pedal and steer around the rink, just as if you were riding a real bike!
Ice Bumper Cars
Ice bumper cars made their debut at Canalside last season and were a hit with kids and adults alike. Each Friday, Saturday, Sunday and holiday, visitors can rent out ice bumper cars from the Winter Pavilion.
Curling
Curling has become a fan favorite at Canalside. Part of the ice is designated for curling, where groups can try their hand at the game of brooms and stones. This activity is first-come-first-serve or available for reservation, so make sure you secure your spot.
Hockey Shots
New to Canalside this season, guests can challenge friends and compete with family to see who has the best hockey shot. Visitors can try to get the puck into the net during any public skate session. Best of all, this activity is free for all skaters.
2024 Grand Opening
This year, The Ice at Canalside is hosting a weekend-long grand opening celebration to kick off the holiday and ice skating season. The event begins on Friday, November 22 and lasts through Sunday, November 24. Friday’s festivities start with the first happy hour skate, where guests can enjoy discounts and giveaways along with a fireworks display.
Events During the 2024 Season
Canalside ice skating is always a blast, but every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday this year will be extra special. Guests can expect weekly events on these days, November through the end of the season in late February.
On Wednesdays, guests can enjoy free admission to the ice ink thanks to ROAR Logistics. While there is no cost for admission, skate rentals will still be available for a fee.
Friday Night Lights at the ice occur every Friday. Guests get to skate along to live themed DJ sessions or bands, enjoy happy hour drink specials, try for giveaways to local sports events or shows and watch a firework display at the end of the evening. This year’s themes include:
- Live & Local – November 22nd
- Holiday Pop – November 29
- Broadway’s Best – December 6
- Swiftie Celebration – December 13
- Mariah Carey & Cozy Classics – December 20
- Dazzling DJ – December 27
- Chappell Roan Champions – January 3
- Skating Through the Decades – January 10
- Silent Disco – January 17
- Kings and Queens of Country – January 24
- Jam Band Jamboree – January 31
- Beyonce’s Beyhive – February 7
- R&B Brilliance – February 14
- Exuberant EDM & Electronica – February 21
Special Event Saturdays happen every Saturday evening at the rink. Guests can take part in giveaways, enjoy discounts, participate in theme skate nights and check out local vendors. Themes to expect this season include:
- Seasons Giveaway Night – November 23
- Polar Express Night – November 30
- Skate & Shop – December 7
- Bills Mafia Skate – December 14
- Jingle Bell Rock the Ice – December 21
- Sabres Night – January 11
- Ice Fest – January 18
- Asian Cultural Night – January 25
- Black History Month Celebration – February 1
- Pride Night – February 8
- Irish Heritage Night – February 15
- End of Season Blowout Bash – February 22
Every Sunday at Canalside is for the kids! Kids Club Sundays return after becoming an instant hit last season. Along with the usual activities on the ice, kids and their families can enjoy a special kids skate free zone with train rides and character appearances as well as mini hockey shots and free skate aids for kiddos new to the ice.