Ice skating in Downtown Montreal just got a whole lot more legendary.
This winter, Downtown is getting a seriously cool upgrade thanks to La Patinoire sous l’Anneau—a brand-new, free outdoor skating rink a few steps from the Montreal Eaton Centre.
In addition to all of the amazing places to skate in the city, this spot is accessible via the REM (and only two blocks from Sherbrooke Street West — recently ranked one of the coolest streets in the world).
Where is La Patinoire sous l’Anneau?
Set on the Esplanade PVM, this rink is popping up beneath Place Ville Marie’s iconic Ring, turning one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks into a winter hangout like no other.
During the summer, the Ring is where free shows like TOHU's Montréal Complètement Cirque festival astound citygoers with aerialists swinging between skyscrapers.
This winter, you can now go for a spin during the day or night with the Ring and Mount Royal as your backdrop.
Don’t have skates? There are rentals on site. And when you’re ready to warm up, you’re surrounded by Downtown Montreal's killer eats and stellar bars — including Time Out Market Montréal (home to some of the best chefs and restaurants in the city under one roof).
When is La Patinoire sous l’Anneau opening?
From February 27 to March 29, 2026, locals, office workers and visitors alike can lace up and skate right in the heart of Downtown—no ticket required.
Beyond outdoor skating, the experience is fully loaded: on-site skate rentals, hot drinks to warm your hands, and a cozy lounge area designed for lingering, whether you’re stopping by during the day or skating under the lights at night.
With the Ring and Mount Royal as a backdrop, the goal is simple: create a memorable winter experience during the cold months—playful, accessible and unmistakably Montréal.
Additional programming is also in the works, so click here for updates.
How do I get to La Patinoire sous l’Anneau?
Public transit is strongly encouraged as the rink is easily accessible via several bus lines, the McGill and Bonaventure metro stations.
It is also accessible via the REM (McGill and Gare Centrale) making it one of the most convenient winter stops in the city.
Check out this video about where the REM arrives in the Montreal Eaton Centre:
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What else is happening Downtown this winter?
Get ready for the return of Jeux Urbains from March 17 to 22, 2026.
Back for another year at the Montreal Eaton Centre, the event will once again showcase international-level performances in BMX Flatland, breaking and urban dance, turning Downtown into an open-air playground for movement, sport and culture.
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