The Town of Hay River is inviting families to the Aurora Ford Arena on March 28, 2026, to celebrate the end of the winter season at the 4th Annual Paint the Ice event. This free community gathering in Hay River, Northwest Territories, allows residents of all ages to paint designs directly onto the ice surface before it is taken out for the year.
The event takes place from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Hay River Community Centre located on Woodland Drive. It was originally based on a similar celebration held in Red Deer, Alberta, and has since become a regular local tradition for the town of approximately 3,500 people.
Several local sports groups that use the rink will be part of the festivities, including the Hay River Minor Hockey Association and the Hay River Figure Skating Club. The arena is also the home base for the Hay River Speedskating Club and various adult hockey teams that play throughout the winter months.
Mayor Kandis Jameson and the Parks and Recreation Division organize the day to mark the change from winter sports to spring activities. The community centre serves as the main spot for local programs, featuring the ice surface, a swimming pool, and an indoor walking track.
