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Hangar Skate Is Back: Toronto’s Coolest Winter Playground Returns to Downsview

Dec 16, 2025 | Local News, Entertainment

December 16, 2025

One of Toronto’s most unique winter experiences is officially back. Hangar Skate returns to the former Downsview Airport lands (YZD) from Dec. 19, 2025 to Feb. 16, 2026, transforming a massive former airport hangar into a fully refrigerated indoor-outdoor skating playground.

Now in its fourth year, Hangar Skate features over 6,000 square feet of ice — about the size of a junior Olympic pool — and this season leans into a “Fire and Ice” theme. Expect an enchanted forest vibe complete with glowing LED performances, immersive soundscapes, local food vendors, winter drinks, arcade games, and hands-on workshops that make it feel more like a festival than a rink.

The rink stays frozen even during warmer winter days thanks to a chilled brine system that keeps the ice at around –4°C. Holiday programming runs through early January with special events like an LED-powered opening night, holiday movie screenings, Nutcracker pop-ins, and a daytime ’80s-themed New Year’s celebration.

From January through mid-February, the focus shifts to DJ skate nights, family-friendly afternoons, free learn-to-skate lessons, art workshops, themed costume days, and Family Day festivities. This year also marks Hangar Skate’s debut as a preview stop for Winter Stations 2026, giving visitors an early look at one of the international art installations.

Skating is free, but advance time-slot booking is required. Skate rentals are available, with free rentals for kids under 12, making this one of the most accessible and creative winter hangouts in the city.

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