Youth Skate Night to take place in Harmony Square

BRANTFORD, ON – Local youth are invited to attend a free skate night event at Harmony Square on Friday, January 30, 2026 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. While skating in Harmony Square is always free, this special event will include local mascots, free hot chocolate and ice skates available on a first come, first service basis through a generous donation by Free Sport for Growth. The City of Brantford, in collaboration with the Brantford Youth Council, Town and Gown Committee, and Brantford Immigration Partnership, are pleased to offer this event to help foster connection, build confidence and strengthen a sense of community for youth across the city.

“With a new term for local post-secondary students a few weeks underway, and exams wrapping up at local high schools, getting outside to skate, listen to music and have some hot chocolate with friends feels like a great way to de-stress,” says Isaac Halsey, Associate Vice President of Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union and Town and Gown Advisory Committee Member. 

Ice skates are also available through the City of Brantford’s Community Skate Exchange program. Residents can donate, exchange or pick-up a free pair of gently used ice skates at the Harmony Square main office, located at 89 Dalhousie Street, on Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. until February 11, 2026. All skaters are encouraged to wear a helmet and dress appropriately for the weather.

“Youth Skate Night is a great opportunity for youth from all backgrounds to come together for an evening of fun and connection,” says Liam McDermott, President of the Brantford Youth Council. “Whether this will be your first time skating, first time skating at Harmony Square, or maybe your first time inviting new friends to skate with you – we encourage everyone to come out.”

Youth Skate Night supports the goals of the City of Brantford’s Empowering Youth Strategy, by bringing together high school and post-secondary aged youth to animate local assets and create diverse, low-barrier access to sport in the Brantford community. It also aligns with the OneBrantford: Inclusive City Strategy, that demonstrates the City of Brantford’s commitment as a member of UNESCO's Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities to building a more inclusive community.