Anoka Turns To Indoor Ice For Winterfest Skating As Outdoor Rinks Await Colder Weather

As winter temperatures remain inconsistent across the Twin Cities metro, the City of Anoka is shifting part of its Winterfest programming indoors, offering residents a guaranteed chance to skate during the heart of the community’s annual winter celebration.

On Thursday, January 15, 2026, the city will host a free indoor skating event at the Anoka Area Ice Arena, partnering with the Anoka Area Hockey Association for an hour-long community skate that doubles as an introduction to the sport of hockey.

A reliable alternative to weather dependent rinks

The event arrives at a moment when many outdoor neighborhood rinks across the north metro, including in nearby Coon Rapids, have faced temporary closures due to unseasonably warm temperatures and unsafe ice conditions. While Anoka maintains several outdoor rinks at George Enloe Park, Rick Sorenson Park, and Wilson Elementary, their availability fluctuates with weather and overnight lows.

By moving this Winterfest skating opportunity indoors, the city is ensuring consistent ice conditions for families eager to stay active during winter, regardless of outdoor thaw cycles.

Event details: “Get Out and SKATE!”

• Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026
• Time: 6:10 to 7:10 p.m.
• Location: Anoka Area Ice Arena, 4111 7th Ave NW, Anoka
• Admission: Free
• Registration: Requested in advance
• What to bring: Skates and a helmet are required
• Ice rules: No sticks or pucks

Although the session is listed through the national Try Hockey for Free platform, organizers note that no equipment will be distributed on site. The focus is on an open, welcoming skate that introduces families to hockey culture while remaining accessible to the broader community.

Part of Anoka Winterfest 2026

The skating event is a featured component of Anoka Winterfest, a multi day celebration running from January 12 through January 16, 2026. Organized by the City of Anoka in collaboration with local organizations, Winterfest is designed to encourage outdoor activity, civic pride, and connection during Minnesota’s coldest season.

Other Winterfest highlights include:

• Monday, Jan. 12: Speed Puzzle Competition at Green Haven Golf Course
• Tuesday, Jan. 13: Winterfest craft projects with the Rumriver Art Center at the Anoka Senior Center
• Wednesday, Jan. 14: Luminary Trail at Green Haven from 5:30 to 7 p.m., featuring Cocoa with the Cops and S’mores with the Fire Department
• Thursday, Jan. 15: Glow Disc Golf at The Cedars at Green Haven at 6:00 p.m., alongside the indoor skating event
• Friday, Jan. 16: Citywide Glow Skate and Sled event from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., with outdoor rink participation and free glow sticks if weather permits

Community collaboration at the center

Winterfest is supported by a network of city departments and community partners, including Anoka Police and Fire, Green Haven Golf and Event Center, and the Rumriver Art Center. Together, they help transform public spaces into gathering points that highlight Anoka’s parks, public safety partnerships, and longstanding reputation for small town tradition.

For residents, the January 15 indoor skate offers a simple promise. Even if outdoor ice remains uncertain, there will be perfect ice, warm surroundings, and a free opportunity to come together during Winterfest week.

Registration and event information: 
https://www.tryhockeyforfree.com/event_detail/4455

MinneapoliMedia