Ice at Canalside to open Nov. 26

Be Our Guest Ltd. will open the Ice at Canalside, presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York, at 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26.

This year marks an anticipated return of the Ice at Canalside with a host of activities including skating, curling, ice bikes, ice bumper cars presented by Five Star Bank, and igloo rentals. For those looking to recharge while at the ice, a new menu will debut in the Nosh and Nibble Snack Shack; and the Low Bridge Café, presented by M&T Bank, will be open for skaters to warm up and grab a bite to eat in Explore and More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum.

“After a year away from the Ice at Canalside, we are more excited than ever to be able to host skaters and families at the rink again,” said Kevin Parkinson, vice president of finance and operations for Be Our Guest. “Our opening celebration will be a great kickoff to the 2021 holiday season in Buffalo.”

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York Vice President of Community Affairs Julie R. Snyder said, “As a community-based health plan, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is excited to kick off the season of ice skating at Canalside. We’re looking forward to lacing up our skates and sharing this winter tradition with the community this year.”

To kick off the return to ice skating at Canalside, a season-opening party will take place Friday, Nov. 26. The celebration will include a DJ performance from 5-10 p.m., a special visit from Santa Claus from 5-9 p.m., a firework show at 7:15 p.m., plus giveaways and more surprises. For additional details, visit www.buffalowaterfront.com.

The Honda Winter Pavilion will provide the main entrance for rink admission and skate rentals. Guests are required to complete a waiver prior to participating in any activity at Canalside. Waivers can be completed on site or online at www.buffalowaterfront.com.

Curling and igloos will be available for prereservation and walk-up sales as they are available. Curling will be located next to the entrance to the Low Bridge Café at Explore and More.

The new Nosh and Nibble Snack Shack will feature a rotating menu of hand pies, warm pretzels, gourmet hot chocolate, chili and cruncher chips.

New and returning events and programs will be announced in the coming weeks, including Skate Great Learn to Skate, GameOn Leagues and Healthy Buffalo Broomball.

The Ice at Canalside will be open through Feb. 27, 2022. Masks are encouraged throughout the duration of a visit to the Ice at Canalside.

To visit the Ice at Canalside, visitors can take the NFTA Metro Rail to the Erie Canal Harbor Station stop. There is also ample parking in Canalside area parking ramps and lots.

For Ice at Canalside enthusiasts, the Ice at Canalside is hiring for all positions this season. For more information, visit www.buffalowaterfront.com/jop-opportunities.

Hours may change due to weather. For the most up-to-date hours of operation, visit www.buffalowaterfront.com or follow Buffalo Waterfront on social media.