Skating and shinny programs


person lacing up hockey skates

The City of Guelph offers lots of opportunities for skaters of all ages to take part in skating activities throughout the Fall/Winter seasons.

Skates are mandatory for drop-in skates and skate lessons. We do not offer skate rentals through the City of Guelph.

Skating and shinny will be available at Victoria Road Recreation Centre and West End Community Centre from September 2023-March 2024.

The last day to skate at recreation facilities will be March 31, 2024.

Arena ice rentals

The City of Guelph has ice available to rent for customers who are looking to rent one time, occasional or on a seasonal (5+ bookings). If interested, please reach out to [email protected].

Sponsorship opportunities – Public Skates

Individuals or organizations can give back to their community while promoting their business by sponsoring a public skate. If interested, please reach out to [email protected].

Skating and shinny

Fall-Winter 2023-2024 Drop in Skate and Shinny Schedule

Skating and shinny schedules arrow_forward_ios

All skates will be staffed with Skate Patrols. You can identify them wearing a high visibility vest and a helmet. Skate Patrols are on the ice to help maintain safe skating procedures through enforcing rules and regulations, providing first aid and to maintain a safe and fun leisure environment. Please say hi when you see them!

We recommend pre-registering for our drop-in programs online, in person at City recreation centres, or on the phone at 519-837-5699, up to 23 hours prior to the start of the program.

Our skating programs include:

  • Public Skating: Everyone is welcome! This skate is a great way to socialize and skate with family and friends. Skate Aids are not permitted at this skate. Sledges are permitted. If you wish to borrow a sledge, see Borrowing a Sledge (link to section below). Children 9 years and younger, must be supervised on ice, by a parent/guardian who is at least 12 years of age with sufficient skating ability. The City of Guelph and Ontario Recreation Facilities Association Inc. recommend wearing helmets for your safety.
  • Family Skate: Skate at this quieter ice time geared towards families with children aged 8 and under. Adult and child must each register. Skate aids and Sledges are allowed at this skate. No hockey sticks allowed.
  • Shinny programs: Drop-in, pick up hockey. Full equipment and helmets are mandatory. Space is limited to 22 players and 2 goalies. Please bring a light and dark jersey for play.
  • Sensory-friendly Skate: Come enjoy a sensory-friendly skate, in an adapted skating environment for children, youth, and adults of all abilities. Dimmed lighting, no music, a smaller group of skaters, no buzzers or whistles. Wheelchairs, skate aids, sledges, and other mobility devices are welcome on the ice. Accompanying adults or support persons skate free of charge. The City of Guelph and Ontario Recreation Facilities Association Inc. recommend wearing helmets for your safety.
  • Stick & Puck Skate (ages 3+): During Stick and Puck drop in, you can work on your own to develop hockey (or ringette) skills at your own pace, in a drop in setting. Work on stick handling, shooting and skating skills. No scrimmages/games, slap shots or body contact allowed. CSA approved helmets are required for all participants – full equipment recommended.

Skating and shinny admissions can be purchased 23 hours in advance on a per visit or monthly basis. Check out our recreation and fitness passes information.

Borrowing a sledge   

Sledges are available for use during public skates at West End Community Centre.  A CSA helmet is mandatory while using a sledge.  Each sledge has varying bucket sizes to accommodate hip sizes ranging from 10 inches to about 16 inches. 2 of the sledges have additional back support and all sleds can be fitted with a push bar to help individuals move if they are unable to do so with the hockey sticks provided. To reserve a sledge:

  1. Review sledge frequently asked questions to determine sizing and reservation policies
  2. Call 519-837-5699 up to 23 hours in advance of the public skate

OR request in person at the customer service desk at the time of the public skate