Thanks to a targeted increase in the 2024 operating budget, the Wrenford Ice Days festival is returning to Riverside Flats Park this Family Day weekend with expanded programming and new free family activities. The event runs from Friday, February 16 to Sunday, February 18.
The 2024 budget, approved by Council in November 2023, set aside additional funds specifically for community event programming. This year, that investment means a new Family Fun Zone, a snow play area with inflatable obstacles, and a community cooking demonstration featuring local chefs. Admission to the festival remains free for all residents.
“We know how much the community values this festival, and our 2024 budget puts more resources directly into family-friendly programming so everyone can enjoy it,” said Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price. “Keeping the event free while adding these activities is a great example of how we use property tax dollars to support local traditions and bring neighbours together.”
Alongside the new activities, the festival will feature the usual ice skating, a five-kilometre walk, and live music on the main stage. Organizers have also adjusted the parking layout this year to reduce traffic on nearby streets. You are asked to use the drop-off zone on Water Street or take Wrenford Transit to the Downtown Transit Terminal and walk to the park.
For a full list of daily schedules, performer line-ups, and volunteer sign-up forms, visit the event page online. The City will also post service alerts if weather conditions change.
The budget that funds this year's festival is part of a larger package that supports parks, transit, and public safety. You can review how your property taxes are spent by visiting the budget section of the website.
Forms for this are in the City forms library.
