Over the weekend, Riverside Park was filled with excitement, community spirit, and the sound of skates gliding across fresh ice, as Kamloops officially celebrated the grand opening of its new outdoor skating loop.

The event brought together hundreds of residents of all ages to mark a milestone that had been several years in the making. Guests were welcomed by Kamloops Outdoor Skating Association member James Gordon, the event’s emcee, who reflected on the long journey that transformed a shared community dream into a vibrant, world-class winter destination in the heart of the city.

Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc elder Hank Gott performed an opening prayer and welcome song. Remarks followed from Tkwenem7íple7 Nikki Fraser and Deputy Mayor Kelly Hall, both of whom highlighted the importance of spaces that bring people together, support health and well-being, and add life to Riverside Park.

The atmosphere was festive and family-friendly thanks to the many local supporters who helped make the day special. Attendees were treated to fare from local food trucks, complimentary hot chocolate and coffee generously supplied by McDonald’s, and appearances by beloved local mascots Digger from the Kamloops Blazers, Stormy from the Kamloops Storm, Wolfie from the Thompson Rivers WolfPack, and Homer from the Kamloops NorthPaws.

Funded by a $7.16 million Growing Communities Fund grant, the refrigerated skating loop began as a shared idea among local outdoor skating enthusiasts and grew through collaboration with City staff and community partners, with the goal of creating a free, accessible outdoor skating option for residents.

The Riverside Park Skating Loop is now open seven days a week (weather permitting), adding a new amenity to the downtown core and providing a welcoming place for residents to spend time outdoors during the colder months.

Find facility details at Kamloops.ca/RiversideSkating.