The Winkler Centennial Arena has been a part of local life since its construction in 1968. For decades, it’s been home to hockey games, concerts, tournaments, and community events. Now, it’s getting a much-needed update that will help it serve the community for many more years to come.
The building might look familiar from the outside, but the inside is getting a full makeover.
“There’s storage underneath all the seats, all the way around. The city will use some of it, and hopefully some of the local teams will be able to as well. We’ve always lacked a lot of storage in both our arenas, so this is going to be good.” - Deputy Mayor of Winkler Andrew Froese
Seating changes, better flow
One of the biggest changes visitors will notice is the new seating layout. The arena used to have seven rows of bench seating with a walkway down in front. That’s being replaced with five rows of individual bucket seats and bench seating as well as a walkway around the top.
“We’re going to have the walkway up top, and then the first row is right at the glass level,” explained Deputy Mayor Andrew Froese during a recent walk-through. “So if you're getting tickets on the glass, you're actually right on the glass. You’ll be able to see right in the action.”
There will also be more space for fans to walk around, along with a wraparound upper-level walkway and extra standing room.
More storage and new dressing rooms
One area that’s been improved significantly is storage. Underneath the new seating, there’s room for equipment and supplies, which was something in short supply in the old building.
“There’s storage underneath all the seats, all the way around,” Froese said. “The city will use some of it, and hopefully some of the local teams will be able to as well. We’ve always lacked a lot of storage in both our arenas, so this is going to be good.”
The dressing rooms have also been rebuilt. There are now four visitor rooms plus a larger one for the Winkler Royals. The Flyers will continue using their existing dressing room, with a new tunnel connecting them to the ice surface.
Capacity and features
When it’s finished, the updated arena will seat 1,314 people in the bowl, plus room for more in the five box suites and standing areas. Overall, game night capacity could reach around 1,500 to 1,600 people.
“The building is designed for 2,000 people when it comes to fire code and exits,” said Froese.
There will also be two Zamboni bays, with space and access to serve both the Centennial and Icon arenas if needed.
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New concessions, lighting, and a fresh look
If you’ve ever waited in long lines at intermission, you’ll be happy to hear that another concession and more washrooms are being added.
“There’s going to be another concession booth in that far southwest corner,” Froese said. “And then the main bathrooms for the upper level are all on that west side.”
Jordan Driedger, Director of Community Services for the City of Winkler, said progress inside the building is moving along well. "It's definitely further along inside than outside,” he said, adding that the new lighting will make a big difference too.
The box suites are also new to the arena and are located on the upper level. They will offer both seating and standing space with a great view of the ice.
Opening timeline
City officials say the project is on track for a February 2026 opening. Work continues throughout the summer and into next year.
When asked where he plans to watch games once the renovations are done, Froese laughed and said, “Probably sitting on one of the sides with my own bucket seat. Gonna make sure I get my season ticket.”
With so many upgrades happening behind the scenes, Winkler’s new-look Centennial Arena is shaping up to be a much more comfortable and modern place to cheer on your team. At the same time, it will still carry the same community spirit it’s always had.