Synthetic ice skating rink to debut in Saint-Gilles

Next weekend in Saint-Gilles a new ice skating rink is set to open – without ice. The new winter attraction on Place de Bethléem, a few blocks from South Station, uses a slippery synthetic material that is more sustainable than maintaining ice.

The initiative is being spearheaded by the cultural non-profit Matissa, which will also host a Christmas market on the square, housed in two traditional yurts. The organisation is offering space to youth from the neighbourhood to sell their wares or to help volunteer.

‘Ice’ hockey and curling competitions will be staged on the rink, which will be open until January 5. Saint-Gilles city councillor representing youth affairs, Said Ahruil, said that the rink and market is a nomadic test project. Next year it will move to the nearby Jacques Francksquare, he said.

Photo: Synthetic ice skating rinks can be used in all seasons