Ice at Canalside to open Nov. 22 with new features & special programming

Press Release

Buffalo Waterfront today announced the opening weekend of the Ice at Canalside, presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY, and revealed some new features and events in the works for the upcoming season.

The rink will open Friday, Nov. 22, through Sunday, Nov. 24, for its 2024-25 season debut, with fireworks on opening night and on each Friday in November and December. The ice will reopen for regular, daily hours starting Friday, Nov. 27.

In addition to “Friday Night Lights” fireworks displays through the end of the year, this season will also feature “Canalside Kids Club” on Sunday mornings, with a brand-new trackless ice train ride, hockey shots experience and character appearances

The popular ice bumper cars will make their return this season after a brief hiatus in 2023-24.

“While we’re certainly still enjoying our beautiful September weather down at the waterfront, we’re also excited to debut some new programs and features for the Ice at Canalside in just two short months,” said Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp. Chairwoman Joan Kesner. “As a four-season destination and a priority of Gov. Kathy Hochul, Canalside remains a signature stop for local families’ and visitors’ winter-time adventures.”

This marks the 11th year Highmark has sponsored the Ice at Canalside.

"We're incredibly proud to have been a founding partner of Canalside, watching its transformation into a thriving year-round destination," said Michael Ball, vice president of community affairs at Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. "The return of Ice at Canalside for another season is a testament to our shared commitment to fostering community spaces that promote health and connection. We’re thrilled to welcome back this beloved tradition and can’t wait to see our community joining together on the ice this season.”

In addition to the new “Friday Night Lights” and “Canalside Kids Club” Sundays, “Lunch Skate Tuesdays” will return as well as “Free Community Skate Wednesdays.” Plus, new theme nights featuring special giveaways will include Taylor Swift’s birthday night, Chappell Roan night, Broadway night, and more.

A full event schedule will be available at buffalowaterfront.com in the coming weeks. Curling and igloo rentals will also be available for booking online in October.

“With our new activities and special events, plus returning favorites, if you haven’t experienced the Ice at Canalside or haven’t come out recently, this is the year to visit,” said Lauren Ford, general manager of Buffalo Waterfront. “We’re especially looking forward to bringing back our ice bumper cars and debuting our trackless ice train to provide winter activities for our youngest visitors and less-experienced skaters.”

Ice at Canalside image courtesy of Shannon Communications/Buffalo Waterfront

••••••••

More about Buffalo Waterfront

Buffalo’s Waterfront is a growing regional destination and entertainment district encompassing Canalside and Outer Harbor. The Buffalo Waterfront hosts large events and daily activities of all types and strives to provide public access to the land and waterways on the Lake Erie shoreline. Operated by the Buffalo Waterfront Management Group, part of Rich Entertainment Group – a subsidiary of Rich Products, the Buffalo Waterfront is the go-to place for locals and out-of-towners of all ages to learn, play and relax. For more information, visit www.buffalowaterfront.com.