Harbourfront Centre and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities Launch Three-Year Partnership to Expand Waterfront Recreation

Harbourfront Centre partners with Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities to expand access to barrier-free skating, youth programs, and winter recreation on Toronto’s waterfront.

TORONTO — Harbourfront Centre has announced a major three-year partnership with Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities aimed at expanding barrier-free recreation for children, youth, and families on Toronto’s waterfront — beginning with a significant expansion of the Centre’s iconic community skating rink.

Harbourfront Centre confirmed the partnership on Monday, describing it as a landmark collaboration that aligns both organizations around a shared mission: increasing equitable access to play, community programming, and recreation.

Expanded skating rink opens November 28

The enhanced rink — located at 235 Queens Quay West — opens to the public on November 28, operating daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

The expansion is part of Jumpstart’s commitment to increasing access to sport and physical activity for kids in need. In addition to improved entry points and adaptive skate options, new Jumpstart-supported programs will introduce curling, hockey, and other winter activities with a focus on under-represented youth.

“Recreation is one of our core pillars,” Harbourfront Centre says

“At Harbourfront Centre, recreation is one of our core pillars alongside arts, culture and learning,” said Cathy Loblaw, CEO of Harbourfront Centre. “Through the generosity of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, we are excited to take recreation on our campus to the next level.”

Jumpstart President Marco Di Buono highlighted the organization’s goal of creating inclusive spaces for physical activity.

“We’re dedicated to breaking down barriers to sport, promoting healthy lifestyles, and building stronger communities,” he said. “Through this rink expansion and our ongoing partnership with Harbourfront Centre, we look forward to creating inclusive recreational spaces where families and youth can stay active and connected year-round.”

A winter season filled with waterfront events

The rink expansion sits at the centre of Harbourfront Centre’s winter programming, supported in part by Jumpstart.

Key events include:

Winterfest Toronto — Nov. 28 to Dec. 21

• Official tree lighting and community skate on November 28

• Live music, special guests, hot chocolate, food vendors, artisan markets, and light displays

• Mix of free and ticketed programs

New Year’s Eve Celebration — Dec. 31

• Joint event with the City of Toronto

• CBC live broadcast from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.

• DJ Skate Night, performances, fireworks over Lake Ontario

Family Day Weekend — Feb. 14–16, 2026

• Three days of arts programming, skating events, and family-focused activities

DJ Skate Nights — Every Saturday from Dec. 21 to Feb. 14

• Free outdoor DJ skate sessions under the city lights

A partnership to increase access and connection

Over the next three years, Harbourfront Centre and Jumpstart will collaborate on year-round opportunities for recreation, cultural engagement, and positive youth development — using the waterfront as a hub for inclusive community life.

For more information on winter events, programs, and rink details, visit harbourfrontcentre.com.

---

Follow GTA Today for more local news and updates. #GTAToday