Where is the ice rink?

This year the ice rink will be held at Civic Square, 180 London Circuit. This location is right in front of Canberra Theatre, and only a few minutes’ walk from Garema place and the Canberra Centre.

What if the weather is bad? Will my skate session be cancelled?

Skate sessions will be cancelled ONLY if unsafe or life-threatening conditions are present (ie, equipment failure, very strong winds, thunderstorms, hail). Clouds and light, patchy rain ARE NOT considered unsafe or life threatening. This website will be updated to let you know what’s on and whether the weather has changed the scheduling.

How can I buy tickets?

Bookings can be made online or at the ice rink. Tickets are available for purchase https://www.canberra.starsonice.com.au/tickets. All tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. In the case of poor weather where the rink is closed, your ticket will be transferred to another session (of equal value) of your choice.

Is there a price difference if I buy my ticket online or at the rink?

No

What time does the ice rink open and close?

The opening hours of the ice rink throughout the event can be found below: Friday 25 June 10:00am – 9:00pm Saturday 26 June 10:00am – 9:00pm Sunday 27 June 10:00am – 8:00pm Monday 28 June 10:00am – 8:00pm Tuesday 29 June 10:00am – 8:00pm Wednesday 30 June 10:00am – 8:00pm Thursday 1 July 10:00am – 8:00pm Friday 2 July 10:00am – 9:00pm Saturday 3 July 10:00am – 9:00pm Sunday 4 July 10:00am – 8:00pm Monday 5 July 10:00am – 8:00pm Tuesday 6 July 10:00am – 8:00pm Wednesday 7 July 10:00am – 8:00pm Thursday 8 July 10:00am – 8:00pm Friday 9 July 10:00am – 9:00pm Saturday 10 July 10:00am – 9:00pm Sunday 11 July 10:00am – 9:00pm

Is there an age or height limit for the skating sessions?

Children must be at least two years old to skate, children under five need a parent or other responsible child skating with them.

Do I have to pay extra for the skates?

No. Skate hire is included in the price of the ticket.

Will you have skates in my size?

Skates are available to suit sizes from two years of age to men’s size 13. The smaller skates are a double blade that gets strapped onto the skater’s personal shoe so it is important to wear comfortable and snug shoes. Gum boots are too flexible so not appropriate.

Do I have to bring any special clothes?

Yes. Dress for the cold, bring socks and maybe bring a change of clothes (if you fall a lot you might get wet from melting ice). There are some helmets available. If you want to be guaranteed a helmet, it is advisable to bring your bike helmet.

Where can I leave my personal belongings while I’m on the ice?

It is recommended that you don’t bring any valuables with you. The event organisers take no responsibility for valuables lost or stolen. Try to ask a friend to look after your things while you’re on the ice.

Is ice skating safe?

As with all sports, there are some risks associated with ice skating. To ensure your safety, there will be skilled marshals on the ice at each public session that help ensure skaters skate in a safe, fun environment.

I’ve never ice skated. Any tips for first timers?

Skating can be tricky at first, but here are a few pointers to get you feeling confident on the ice!

- Don't look down when skating
- Don't lean backwards when skating
- Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight forward
- Try to learn how to stop!! To stop, bend your knees, turn the toes of each foot inwards, point your heels out, and push out on your heels. This will slow you down and bring you to a stop.Or drag one foot behind the other.