Newcastle’s new outdoor rink opens with festive celebrations and new inclusive skating aids

Newcastle’s new outdoor refrigerated skating rink officially opened on December 22 with an evening of community celebration at the Diane Hamre Recreation Complex.

“We’re excited to celebrate Newcastle’s new outdoor rink together. In Clarington, skating isn’t just a pastime. It’s a winter tradition that brings folks together, spreads joy, and makes the season feel special. And this rink is something special: refrigerated so we can make the most of winter, with glowing lights, plenty of spots to sit and catch your breath, a cozy fire pit, and a warming room that makes everyone feel welcome,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster.

Mayor Adrian Foster and Council joined the crowd to mark the milestone with residents, welcoming the community onto the ice for the first time. Neighbours enjoyed free skating, a performance by the Orono Figure Skating Club, and other festive activities before gathering for a twinkling tree‑lighting ceremony. The Municipality extends its gratitude to event sponsor Elexicon Energy and to Newcastle Tim Hortons for providing complimentary hot chocolate.

Mayor Adrian Foster, Members of Council, Members of the Accessibility Advisory Committee and municipal staff cut the ribbon to open the new outdoor refrigerated skating rink.

Clarington also introduced new inclusive skating aids available at this rink, funded through a $3,500 grant from Enbridge’s Vibrant Communities program. The TykeSkateRs and Adaptive TykeSkateRs offer added stability and support for skaters of all ages and abilities, advancing the goals of Clarington’s 2024–28 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and reflecting the Municipality’s commitment to barrier-free programs, services, and spaces.

“Thanks to this handy new equipment, even more folks can take a spin on our shiny new rink. Clarington’s all about skating. Everyone should have a chance to feel that rush of skating outdoors, taking in the crisp air and the wide-open sky overhead. I’m happy that, with help from Enbridge, we’re opening up the ice for a whole bunch more of our neighbours to enjoy,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster.

The Municipality of Clarington is actively pursuing valuable external funding opportunities, reducing dependency on the property tax base while supporting the delivery of meaningful municipal services. Clarington thanks Enbridge for supporting this step forward and helping make winter recreation more accessible.

“These skating aids will let more families participate together and enjoy the rink without barriers holding them back,” said Lesley Scherer, Chair of Clarington’s Accessibility Advisory Committee. “It’s a small change that will make a big difference for many residents.”

This is Clarington’s second outdoor refrigerated skating rink, following last year’s opening at the Courtice Community Complex. The next addition will be an outdoor skating trail at the South Bowmanville Recreation Centre—set to become the first of its kind in Durham Region and one of the longest skating trails in Ontario.

Visit www.clarington.net/Skating for hours of operation.

Media inquiries:
Municipality of Clarington
Sarah Raso, | Communications Officer
905-260-3495 | sraso@clarington.net

Thank you to everyone who celebrated with us.