Skaters strapped on their skates and took to the ice today to celebrate the opening of Vancouver’s landmark Robson Square ice skating rink. To kick off the season, visitors to the rink were treated to complimentary skate rentals and hot chocolate, and a performance by two medal-winning figure skaters, Diana Barkley and Geoff Squires.

Celebrating its seventh consecutive season, visitors will enjoy public skating, family-friendly events and affordable fun for all through Feb. 28, 2016. The ice rink at Robson Square will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, weather permitting. Ice skating is free, skate rentals are available.

During the month of December, visitors will enjoy an array of complimentary activities such as:

• Photos with Santa on Dec. 6 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., following the 12th Annual Rogers Santa Claus Parade;
• Free daily music events during the 12 Days of Christmas event, beginning on Saturday, Dec. 12 and running until Dec. 24;
• Ballet and 12 Days of Christmas performance on Dec. 13; and
• Pop up embroidery shop where people can get their names custom embroidered on select items on Dec. 27.

On Dec. 6, visitors are encouraged to participate in the annual backpack and sock campaign, benefitting the Covenant House of Vancouver. More information on the types of items that may be donated can be found here: www.armyandnavy.ca/covenanthouse.html

The Province’s popular schools program continues again this year. School groups of children in grades 4-7 have the opportunity to participate in a free skating session during a school day. Last winter, 155 school groups took advantage of the program with over 5,000 students skating on the ice rink. To make these arrangements, contact: RSQIceRink@pacegroup.com

Nordstrom is sponsoring the Robson Square Ice Rink for the month of December. The sponsorship will include a full program of activities, performances and other holiday treats.

Quotes:

Amrik Virk, Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services –

"Every year, families and visitors visiting Robson Square have enjoyed the unique recreational experience of skating and music in the downtown core. This year’s diverse series of fun holiday events provides something for everyone to enjoy.”

Andrew Wilkinson, MLA for Vancouver-Quilchena –

"Unique experiences like skating at Robson Square create special memories for B.C. families. When you do enjoy this uniquely B.C. tradition, please help to fulfil a child’s Christmas wish by making a donation to Covenant House.”

Peter Raptis, board of director chair, Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association –

“Robson Square is one of Vancouver’s public iconic destinations, and visiting the rink is a great opportunity for families to create new traditions and lasting winter memories in the heart of the downtown.”

Chris Wanlass, Nordstrom store manager –

"We are thrilled to be a part of this popular holiday tradition. Being involved in the community is very important to us, and we encourage visitors to donate items to families in need by bringing a backpack for the Covenant House.”

Quick Facts:

• For the backpack and sock campaign, suggested items to donate are:
  • Socks, male and female underwear, toques, t-shirts, hoodies, deodorant, shaving cream, razors, body wash, 2 in 1 shampoo, hair elastics (full packs), backpacks, umbrellas, gift cards, chocolate bars, fleece blankets, hand warmers, lip balm, nail clippers and gloves.
• The Robson Square Ice Rink is Vancouver’s first outdoor public skating rink, having opened in Robson Square in 1982.
• Robson Square was designed by Vancouver architect Arthur Erickson. It opened in two phases, in 1978 and 1979, and was completed at a total cost of $139-million.
• Last winter, more than 165,000 people visited the plaza for ice skating, concerts and other special events.

Learn More:

For a calendar of events for the 2015-16 season along with information about the schools program, please visit: www.robsonsquare.com