By Diane Klaver

Winter is finally here; the ponds have frozen and there’s fresh snow on the hills. It’s time to get out those sleds and sharpen your skates for an afternoon of free fun. Bundle up, pack a helmet, and check out these tobogganing hills and public skating rinks around the city.

Public Skating

Olympic Plaza: Built for the 1988 Olympic Winter Games’ medal presentation ceremonies, the Plaza has been the site of many festivals and special events throughout the year. Once it gets cold enough (usually mid November) it’s open for public skating. 228 8 Ave SE

Skating at Heritage Park

Town Square Skating Rink at Heritage Park: This all-weather rink was the first of it’s kind when it was unveiled last year to kick off Heritage Park’s Once Upon a Christmas event. The synthetic ice doesn’t melt, won’t get lumpy, and requires no Zamboni. Public skating is from 10 am to 8 pm. 1900 Heritage Dr SW

Bowness Park and Lagoon: Built before World War I as a weekend retreat for Calgarians, the lagoon remains a popular spot throughout the whole year. Skating on the lagoon begins shortly after it freezes over. Along the Bow River between Stoney Tr and 85 St.

Big Marlborough Park: 6033 Madigan Dr NE

Prairie Winds Park: 233 Castleridge Blvd NE

Calgary offers several sledding destinations around the city

Tobogganing

Confederation Park: 2800 10 St. NW

Rundle Dry Pond: 2400 50 St. NE

Glendale Park: 25 Ave and 45 St SW

Maple Ridge Dry Pond: Maple Glade Close SE