BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) The canals at Canalside have been drained and roller skating has returned to the Buffalo Waterfront. "We are starting to shift into late summer/fall mode," said Lauren Moloney Ford, General Manager,
Buffalo Waterfront Management Group. "We drained the canals ten days ago and the entire site is now ready for roller skating starting tonight."
The rink is coming off a very successful inaugural season in 2021. "We were just thrilled with the initial response, especially from people who had not skated in years."
The rink at Canalside is the largest roller rink in New York State.
One section includes a tent that can be rented for birthday, private and corporate parties.
Returning this year are crowd favorites including:
*Theme Skate Nights
*Silent Disco skates
*Skating lessons by the 716 Rollers every Saturday from 12:00pm to 2:00p.m.
*Special programming with the 716 Rollers
*Group skate and party packages
"We were surprised last year to see how many people took this up as an activity and have their own skates," said Ford. "But if you don't have your own skates, we have skates available to rent from sizes kids size 8 to men's size 14. Roller blades are not permitted."
Buffalo Holiday Market will be on site this year, including approximately 20 vendors at the rink on a weekly basis. Vendors will line the canal area adjacent to the skating surface, showcasing the best of Buffalo’s crafts, goods, and specialty products. Vendors will be open every Friday 4pm – 9pm, Saturday 1pm – 9pm and Sunday 1pm – 6pm.
Admission to the Roller Rink is $6 for adults and $2 for children 13 and under. Patrons can bring their own roller skates or rentals are available for $4. Roller blades are not permitted at the Roller Rink.
The Roller Rink will be open through October 30, 2022. For more information on hours and special programming at the Roller Rink at Canalside, click HERE.