ECHDC Announces Ice at Canalside to Open for 2026-2027 Season on November 20

Reservations are now open for season passes, igloo rentals, curling & more

See pictures of Ice at Canalside here

Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) today announced that the Buffalo Waterfront is gearing up for the 2026-2027 winter season at Canalside. The Ice at Canalside, presented by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, will officially open to skaters on Friday, Nov. 20.

Reservations are now open for single-day skating passes, season passes, group outings, private igloo rentals and curling. Fan-favorite ice bumper cars will also return to the rink, available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

"We are thrilled to welcome Western New Yorkers back to the waterfront for another incredible season on the ice," said ECHDC Board Chair Joan Kesner. "This year, we're pairing our fan-favorite bumper cars, curling, and a fantastic schedule of theme nights, giveaways, and family programming. Thanks to Governor Hochul's ongoing commitment to our community, Canalside continues to serve as a vibrant anchor for downtown Buffalo, and we invite everyone to come down, lace up their skates, and embrace the best of our city's winter season."

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield returns as the presenting sponsor of the winter attraction for its 13th consecutive year.

"Canalside has become a premier gathering destination in Western New York, creating opportunities for residents and visitors alike to stay active, connect with one another, and enjoy all that our region has to offer all year-round," said Michael Ball, Vice President of Community Affairs, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. "As the official health plan of Canalside, we're proud to help make these experiences possible and to support programming that promotes health, wellness and community engagement. We look forward to welcoming families back to Ice at Canalside for the 13th year and building on the success of another strong Fitness at Canalside season."

Important Visitor Update: Pavilion Relocation

Due to ongoing construction at the North Aud Block, the Ice at Canalside Pavilion has been relocated. Visitors will find the new pavilion location adjacent to Explore & More, near the intersection of Marine Drive and Commercial Street.

Visitors are strongly encouraged to purchase advance skating passes and make activity reservations online to secure their preferred time slots. Day-of passes will also remain available for purchase in person at the pavilion.

Admission & Activity Pricing
Rates for the 2026-2027 season remain unchanged from last year:

• Children (Ages 5 and under): Free
• Children (Ages 6-12) & Military Personnel: $5
• Adults (Ages 13 and up): $8
• Individual Season Pass: $49
• Family Season Pass: $99
• Highmark BCBS Member Individual Season Pass: $39
• Highmark BCBS Member Family Pass: $80
• Skate Rentals: $6 (Sizes Youth 9 - Adult 12)
• Ice Bumper Cars: $8 per 8-minute session
• Curling: $15 per person (includes equipment and instructor guidance)

Hours of Operation (Beginning Nov. 20)

• Tuesday: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Wednesday & Thursday: 4 - 8 p.m.
• Friday: 1 - 9 p.m.
• Saturday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
• Sunday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Broomball leagues and private ice rentals are available outside of normal operating hours. A complete special event and theme night schedule will be published online in early November.

For reservations, up-to-date public skating hours, and weather-related closures, please visit BuffaloWaterfront.com.

Buffalo Waterfront

Buffalo's Waterfront is a growing regional destination and entertainment district encompassing Canalside and Outer Harbor. The Buffalo Waterfront hosts large events and daily activities of all types and strives to provide public access to the land and waterways on the Lake Erie shoreline. Operated by the Buffalo Waterfront Management Group, part of Rich Entertainment Group - a subsidiary of Rich Products, the Buffalo Waterfront is the go-to place for locals and out-of-towners of all ages to learn, play and relax. For more information, visit https://buffalowaterfront.com/.

Click the icons below to follow the Buffalo Waterfront on social media for the latest updates, announcements, and ticketing.

About Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation

The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) is governed by a nine-member board consisting of seven voting directors and two non-voting, ex-officio directors. The seven voting directors are recommended by the New York State Governor and are appointed by the New York State Urban Development Corporation d/b/a Empire State Development as sole shareholder of ECHDC. The two non-voting, ex-officio director positions are held by the Erie County Executive and the City of Buffalo Mayor.

As a subsidiary of Empire State Development, the state's chief economic development agency, the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation supports and promotes the creation of infrastructure and public activities at Canalside, the Ohio Street corridor and the Outer Harbor that is attracting critical mass, private investment and enhance the enjoyment of the waterfront for residents and tourists in Western New York. Its vision is to revitalize Western New York's waterfront and restore economic growth to Buffalo based on the region's legacy of pride, urban significance, and natural beauty.