Get ready to skate into the festive season as Big Skate returns from 5 December 2026 to 3 January 2027 at Pondside, bringing Christmas magic, family fun and a brand-new covered ice rink to the town...
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Get ready to skate into the festive season as Big Skate Watford returns from Saturday 5 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027 at Pondside, bringing Christmas magic, family fun and a brand-new covered ice rink to the town.
Watford is getting ready to welcome back one of its most exciting festive attractions as Big Skate makes its return since 2019, giving residents and visitors the chance to enjoy some skating fun in the town centre.
Opening on Saturday 5 December with a special launch event at 12noon, this year, visitors can look forward to an even more magical experience, with a covered real ice rink and a Christmas tree taking centre stage in the middle of the ice.
Festive music and colour-changing lights will also help create a seasonal atmosphere, while a refreshments stall serving drinks and snacks, will offer visitors the chance to soak up the Christmas spirit on and off the ice.
The return of Big Skate has been made possible thanks to generous sponsorship from the Mace Foundation. The event will also give back to the local community, with all proceeds from ticket sales going to four charities and good causes: Become chosen by Mace and New Hope, Pump House Raise the Roof and Watford Community Fund chosen by the council.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “I made a commitment to bring back the ice rink to Watford, and I’m delighted to see Big Skate returning to Watford this Christmas. It's a fantastic way to bring families and friends together, support our town centre and create some festive magic. I'm especially pleased that the Mace Foundation has helped make this possible and that local good causes will benefit.”
Mark Reynolds CBE, Mace Construct Executive Chairman & Mace Foundation Chairman said: "We are passionate about making a positive difference in communities, and this is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together while supporting charities doing vital work. Knowing that proceeds from ticket sales will benefit four worthwhile causes makes this initiative even more special, and we hope families across Watford will come along, enjoy themselves and help make a real difference."
Photocaption: Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor with Birmingham Freestylers at previous Big Skate event
The 20m x 12m real ice rink will offer skating sessions throughout the festive period, with each one-hour booking including 45 minutes on the ice. Skate hire is included in the ticket price, making it easy for everyone to get involved, whether they are taking their first steps on the ice or are already confident skaters.
Tickets are priced at £14 for adults, £10 for children and £45 for a family of four. Those booking early can take advantage of special early bird prices available before 23 November, with adult tickets reduced to £12, children's tickets to £8 and family tickets to just £38. Skate aids are available to book for an additional £3.
Big Skate Watford will also offer dedicated Quiet Skate sessions at selected times for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) or anyone preferring a quieter, smaller session. General sessions will feature festive music and colour-changing lights, which may not be suitable for those with photosensitive conditions or light sensitivities. Children under 12 must be accompanied on the ice by a responsible person aged 16 or over.
For tickets and further information, visit bit.ly/Big-Skate-WBC. The rink will be closed on Christmas Day.
