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Embracing the spirit of our vibrant winter city, The Forks announces an exciting partnership to acknowledge Winnipeg’s 150th birthday in a unique way. New for this winter season, the on-land skating rinks and trails at The Forks will be named Winnipeg 150 Winter Park. And the first section of the Winnipeg 150 Winter Park, the Canopy Rink, is now open for skating.
“Every year we see people from all over our city come here and fully embrace the Winter Park amenities, so it’s fitting to partner with Winnipeg 150 to mark this milestone," says Sara Stasiuk, Chief Executive Officer of The Forks North Portage. “We know this site holds thousands of years of cultural and historical significance well beyond the 150 years Winnipeg has officially been a city, and celebrating our community in this way is something we strive to do here every day.”
When complete, Winnipeg 150 Winter Park will include more than one kilometre of groomed on-land skating and walking trails, the Canopy Rink, and the CN Stage Rink. Skaters can once again enjoy a soundtrack of local musicians provided by Manitoba Music at the two rinks, and over 100,000 lights will illuminate the skating and walking paths.
“The Forks is a place that reflects the theme of our Winnipeg 150 celebrations: Our shared stories. Our shared future.,” says Mayor Scott Gillingham. “The site has always been the heart of our community, and as we mark 150 years as a city, I encourage Winnipeggers to lace up their skates, embrace the season, and make the Winnipeg 150 Winter Park a place to create lasting memories."
Winnipeg 150 Winter Park will have free family-friendly activities every weekend throughout January and February, including DJs spinning tunes by the Canopy Rink, storytelling and drumming in the teepee with Elder Barbara Nepinak, and skating, skiing, and snowshoeing lessons. More information and schedule on all of these activities to come in early January.
A skate changing area will be available inside The Forks Market atrium, and visitors are welcome to bring their own equipment, or they can rent from Iceland Skate Rentals.