Free Outdoor Fun
December 20, 2018
The holiday season is upon us, and you may be wondering what to do in Red Deer with your family and friends.
The holiday season is upon us, and you may be wondering what to do in Red Deer with your family and friends. Red Deer has numerous free or low-cost options to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors this season. From tobogganing to skating to cross-country skiing to beautiful light displays and more there is sure to be something for you to enjoy.
If skates and hockey sticks are your thing, Red Deer has 76 outdoor rinks throughout the city for free public use. The newest of these rinks is the outdoor speed skating oval at Setters Place at Great Chief Park. Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a speedskater to enjoy this ice, there are dedicated public skating times each day. This 400m speed skating oval is built directly on top of the synthetic turf sports field, and will host long track speed skating during the upcoming 2019 Canada Winter Games. For a complete list of outdoor rinks visit: http://www.reddeer.ca/recreation-and-culture/outdoor-recreation/cold-weather-activities/outdoor-skating/outdoor-rinks/
If you like to be surrounded by wilderness with your feet strapped to skinny skis, you’re in luck because there are more than 30km of groomed cross country ski trails in the city. River Bend trails were revamped to include wider runs and lighting, so be sure to check it out and see where Canada’s top cross country skiiers and biathlon athletes will be competing during the Games.
The Waskasoo Park system has over 22km of cleared trails for running, walking and cycling.
Of course, City Hall Park is lit with beautiful lights for the holiday season. Lights turn on daily at 4:30 p.m., and don’t miss the singing Christmas tree on the corner of Ross Street and 48 Avenue.
For more information on free or low-cost activities available in Red Deer visit reddeer.ca/free.
From everyone at The City of Red Deer we wish you happy holidays and all the best in 2019.