If you’re still trying to figure out what to do with your family this Thanksgiving Monday, the City of Calgary is offering free swimming and skating at recreational facilities across the city, with multiple afternoon sessions to choose from. Four arenas will offer skating and two aquatic centres offer swimming, so you have a few options.
Here’s where you can go and what you need to know before you head out.
What to expect at the free swimming and skating sessions
Where can I go for free skating in Calgary?
Four arenas around Calgary offer free family skating on Monday. Here’s where you can head to get on the ice:
- Shouldice Arena
- Where: 1515 Home Rd. NW, Calgary, Alta.
- Stu Peppard Arena
- Where: 5300 19th St. SW, Calgary, Alta.
- Murray Copot Arena
- Where: 6727 Centre St. NW, Calgary, Alta.
- Rose Kohn/Jimmie Condon Arena
- Where: 502 Heritage Dr. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Where can I swim for free?
Prefer the pool instead? Free family swimming will be available at two Calgary aquatic centres, and here’s where you can find them:
- Glenmore Aquatic Centre
- Where: 5330 19th St. NW, Calgary, Alta.
- Thornhill Aquatic and Recreation Centre
- Where: 6715 Centre St. NW, Calgary, Alta.
What time will the free swimming and skating happen?
The free swimming and skating will take place on Monday, Oct. 12, 2026, with afternoon sessions at each available facility.
Skating sessions will run from 1 to 2:15 p.m. and then from 2:30 to 3:45 p.m. Free swimming sessions run from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and again from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Do I need to register in advance?
You don’t need to register in advance for the free swimming or skating session; just show up at one of the participating facilities during the available times.
If you’re planning to swim, the City of Calgary asks that you attend only one time slot because the free sessions are popular. Pools will also be cleared at 2:30 p.m. to make room for the next group.
Will equipment rentals be available for skating?
Equipment rentals will not be available during the session, so if you’re planning to skate, bring your own skates and any other equipment you may need.
And if you’re thinking about making other plans this Thanksgiving Monday, check out our guide on what’s open and closed around Calgary. We’ve rounded up holiday hours for stores, restaurants and attractions in the city, so you can check what’s open before you head out and plan your day accordingly.
Have a great Thanksgiving!
When: Monday, Oct. 12, 2026
Time: times vary
Where: Various locations across Calgary
Cost: Free
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Kaiya Williams
Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.
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