Mississauga residents are being asked to lace up for a different kind of winter duty: the City is recruiting volunteers to build and maintain natural ice rinks in neighbourhood parks across the city this season.
The outdoor rinks give residents free places to skate, play hockey and spend time outside all winter long — but without volunteers, they simply don't happen, according to a City of Mississauga news release.
"Natural ice rinks are a long-standing winter tradition in Mississauga and across Canada," the release said.
How the program works
Unlike larger skating facilities, natural rinks rely entirely on local volunteers to create and care for the ice throughout the season. Each rink requires a minimum of three volunteers, with additional helpers welcome to share the workload.
Last winter, 102 volunteers pitched in to keep the rinks running during the 2025-2026 season. Experienced volunteers help welcome newcomers and pass along their knowledge to keep the program going year after year, the City said.
Volunteers typically support rink operations from around mid-December to mid-March, depending on the weather. They should be prepared to tend the rink after snowfall and adapt to changing winter conditions.
The City supplies the equipment needed to do the job, including a heated rink hut with a water hydrant, hoses, spray nozzles, shovels, ice scrapers and signage, along with instructions on how to build and maintain the rink.
The work can be physically demanding at times, but volunteers share tasks and support one another throughout the season, according to the City. Many are also regular rink users who take pride in creating a winter gathering spot for family, friends and neighbours.
Who can apply
Both new and returning volunteers are welcome. The City says keeping local rinks open helps volunteers and other residents stay active through the winter months.
Residents interested in volunteering can learn more about the program, view participating rink locations and complete a volunteer application by visiting mississauga.ca/outdooricerinks. Applications will be accepted until November 15, 2026.
