The beloved Winter Ice Palace is returning to the Cloverdale Arena this holiday season. The festive skating attraction opens December 13 at “The Barn” and will run until January 4, marking its 26th year of transforming the rink into a winter wonderland.
The City of Surrey confirmed the return through its official website, calling it “the most magical winter event” and inviting residents to skate under glowing lights, holiday décor and cheerful music.
A Longstanding Surrey Tradition
Over the years, the Ice Palace has grown into one of Surrey’s signature holiday experiences. Last winter, Mayor Brenda Locke described it as a cherished tradition that offers families a “magical and affordable experience.”
Cloverdale Arena will once again be decorated with Christmas trees, strings of lights and seasonal displays. The rink will continue hosting minor hockey until just before opening day, with final decorations installed shortly after.
Registration Required for All Sessions
To manage crowding, the city requires registration for all daily 90-minute skating sessions. Registration opens three days before each time slot and closes one hour before gates open. A limited-capacity system ensures skaters have guaranteed ice time and a smoother experience.
Admission is $5 per person, with free entry for residents holding an Annual Recreation Pass. Skate rentals are available for $3.50 and helmet rentals for $1.75.
Santa to Hit the Ice on December 20
Santa Claus will make a special appearance on December 20, trading his boots for skates during three “Skate with Santa” sessions scheduled from 1:30–3 p.m., 3:30–5 p.m., and 5:30–7 p.m. A regular evening session will follow from 7:30–9 p.m. without Santa.
How to Register
Participants can book sessions through:
• The City of Surrey website
• Phone registration at 604-501-5100
• Any City of Surrey recreation facility
The city is also accepting private rental bookings for holiday parties and celebrations. Inquiries can be sent to arenarentals@surrey.ca.
A Holiday Experience for the Whole Community
The 2025 edition marks 26 years since the event first launched in 1997. The Ice Palace did not operate in 2020 due to COVID-19 and in 2021 because of staffing shortages, but remains one of Surrey’s most beloved winter traditions.
Residents are encouraged to cancel their booking if they cannot attend so others can enjoy the limited-capacity sessions.
The Cloverdale Arena is located at 6090 176th Street on the Cloverdale Fairgrounds. For full skating schedules, visit surrey.ca and search “Ice Palace.”
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