Sheffield city centre to be transformed this winter with free to use ice rink
Sheffield city centre will be transformed this winter with a free to use artificial ice rink.
The rink will form part of a vibrant Fan Zone in celebration of the 2026 ISU Figure Skating European Championships in the Steel City.
From January 13-18, the city is hosting Europe’s premier skating event at the Sheffield Utilita Arena, marking the UK’s first time in over a decade to welcome this prestigious competition.
Sheffield Council said the city is ready to roll out the red carpet for world-class athletes and fans from across the continent.
Located at the Sheffield Peace Gardens, the Fan Zone will feature a free-to-use ice-skating rink, alongside a big screen broadcasting live competition coverage, highlights and sponsor content.
The Fan Zone is hosted by Sheffield City Council and British Ice Skating, with additional support from Sheffield BID and UK Sport.
Councillor Mohammed Mahroof, Chair of the Economic Development, Skills and Culture Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “We’re delighted to welcome ISU Figure Skating European Championships to Sheffield, and to bring the excitement right into the city centre for everyone to enjoy.
“Whether you’ve got tickets for the Arena or not, the Fan Zone gives people of all ages a chance to be part of the event and feel the excitement. It also helps create a lasting legacy of participation, pride and wellbeing across our communities.
“Hosting the European Championships is a proud moment for Sheffield – and we’re determined that the whole city can take part.”
David Hartley, Event Director at ISU Figure Skating European Championships 2026, said: “Bringing the European Championships to Sheffield is a huge moment for our sport, and we want Sheffield 2026 to be a celebration the whole city can share in.
“The city centre Fan Zone – and the free rink at the Peace Gardens – are about making that excitement accessible to everyone, giving families, newcomers and skating fans the chance to get involved, feel part of the Championships, and create lasting memories, whether they have tickets for the Arena or not.
“It’s also a brilliant way to introduce more people to skating, connect communities with elite sport, and build a positive legacy beyond competition week. We’re incredibly grateful for the support of Sheffield City Council, UK Sport and Sheffield BID in helping make this possible.”
Fan Zone highlights:
- Outdoor Ice Rink – Free public skating sessions with skate hire included, plus themed sessions every day.
- Big Screen – Watch all the action from the Championships live, plus highlights and entertainment.
- Food Stalls – Hot drinks, family-friendly street food, and local vendors.
- Entertainment – Fun activities for all ages.
- Free School Skating Sessions – Giving local pupils a chance to experience the rink.
The rink will open on Saturday morning ahead of Championships week and run until Sunday evening after the final events.
- Weekend opening: 10:00–20:00
- Weekday opening: 14:00–20:00
Diane Jarvis, Chief Executive Officer of Sheffield BID, said: “High-profile events put Sheffield on a national and international stage, attracting visitors from outside the region and generating additional spending that directly benefits local businesses and the hospitality sector.
“It’s vital that the city centre maximises these opportunities. By hosting the Fan Zone in the heart of Sheffield, we create a vibrant experience that draws people into the city centre, ensuring our business community shares in the economic uplift and that Sheffield is seen as a welcoming, dynamic destination.”