Sharpen those skates! A unique skating experience is coming to Toronto and you can glide beneath the "northern lights." The Bentway is reopening its under-Gardiner skate trail with a new art installation that's brimming with celestial magic.
The 220-metre figure-eight ice trail runs beneath the Gardiner Expressway and is launching on December 16, 2023. This year, it will feature an aurora borealis-inspired installation that reflects "the glowing hues of the northern lights."
Rendering of 'The Gateway' installation at The Bentway skate trail.Courtesy of The Bentway
Created by Yi Zhou and Carlos Portillo, the installation's colourful arches will tower about the icy loops, "bringing the magic and movement of the northern lights into the city."
You can glide beneath shades of green, blue, violet, and magenta that will transport you to a wintry night in a far away land.
"Unique and inclusive art experiences like Yi Zhou and Carlos Portillo’s The Gateway have the power to connect people and communities while transforming everyday places and objects," said Stuart Keeler, Senior Art Curator, TD Bank Group in a press release.
The Bentway will be hosting free skate rental nights, free hot chocolate nights, beginner skate lessons, the its annual Polar Bear Skate throughout the season in addition to the skating experience.
There will also be a new Holiday Market this year where you can shop for goods and indulge in tasty treats. The event is running each Saturday and Sunday from December 2 to 31 and is free to visit.
If you're looking for a magical winter experience you can head to The Bentway and enjoy a little piece of the northern lights right here in the city.
The Bentway Skate Trail
Rendering of 'The Gateway' installation at The Bentway skate trail.
Courtesy of The Bentway
Price: Free
When: Opening December 16, 2023
Address: 250 Fort York Blvd., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Glide beneath a magical northern lights installation at this skating trail in Toronto.