Polar Bear Skate

The Bentway’s wildest winter tradition returns! Brave Torontonians are invited to strip down to their skivvies and skate the trail for a good cause. Our annual Polar Bear Skate is both a clothing drive and a bold way to close out the year. 

The event is free to attend – just bring your skates and you’re good to go. If you don’t have skates, we have rentals available onsite. Participants will receive a complimentary Bentway toque and hot chocolate. Not up for the chill? You can still come cheer on participants and contribute to the clothing drive. 

Donations of warm winter clothing will be collected onsite by New Circles Community Services and distributed to local individuals and families who are living on a limited income. 

Named one of the top things to do in the GTA on New Years’ Eve, it’s a unique experience not to miss! Hop Valley Brewing Co. will be on-site with drink samples for folks 19+ too!

Schedule

  • 12:00pm – 12:50pm: Registration 
  • 1:00pm: Polar Bear Skate

Sign-in and Registration

  • Sign-in and registration begins at 12:00pm. Please make your way to the yellow Bentway registration tent next to the Skate Trail to check in. Space permitting, last-minute registrations will be accepted on the day of the event. The Polar Bear Skate will start at 1:00pm. 
  • Skate rentals are available on-site for a fee. Please leave yourself extra time to rent a pair, if needed. 
  • An all-gender tent will be provided (The Bentway does not have change rooms) along with coat racks and hangers for your clothes. Please leave your valuables at home or bring a friend to watch your belongings. The Bentway does not have lockers and is not responsible for lost or damaged items.  

Additional Details

  • This event will take place entirely outdoors at The Bentway Skate Trail. 
  • The Polar Bear Skate is one of our most popular events. Please only participate if you feel comfortable skating with a large group of people. 
  • Photography, video, and audio recording may occur. By participating in the Polar Bear Skate, you consent to such recording and to the release, publication, exhibition or reproduction of these recordings and photographs.   
  • This event will go ahead rain/snow or shine, however for the safety of all participants it will not proceed if the temperature is -20°C or below. 

Please note: All participants must sign a waiver before taking part in the Polar Bear Skate. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian.

Clothing Donations

Donations of warm winter clothing will be collected onsite by New Circles Community Services. Items in need include new and gently-worn winter coats, boots, snowsuits, and accessories (mitts, hats, etc.). For more information about clothing donations, click here

sponsor

Sponsored in part by: