Sydney’s Darling Harbour is turning to ice once again. No, the harbour itself hasn’t frozen over (though the winter chill might have you fooled), but the much-loved ice skating rink has officially glided back into town for the 2026 season – and it’s bigger, busier and more entertaining than ever.
If you’ve always dreamed of landing a triple axel – or simply recreating your own Home Alone 2 moment under twinkling city lights – consider this your cue. Whether you’re planning a wholesome date night or looking for a foolproof way to tire out the kids these school holidays, this icy pop-up delivers.
From Friday, June 27 until Sunday, July 19, you can head down to the Palm Grove Forecourt (just outside IMAX Sydney) to lace up your skates and take to the rink. Sessions run daily from 10am to 9pm, giving you plenty of time to channel your inner figure skater – or wobble your way around like Bambi on ice. (Pro tip: thick pants are still your best friend.)
The rink welcomes skaters of all levels, with handy skating aids available for little ones still finding their footing. But the big new addition for 2026? Friday night performances. Each week at 5.45pm and 6.45pm, six professional skaters will take to the ice for a dazzling 12-minute show, bringing a touch of winter magic to the waterfront with elegant choreography and serious skill.
Once you’ve had your fill of spins (intentional or otherwise), Darling Harbour’s surrounding precinct is packed with dining options – from quick bites to sit-down feasts – perfect for refuelling post-skate.
And if you’re visiting during the school holidays, there’s even more to explore. From July 4-5, the precinct will host a free Arctic Activity Zone, complete with dance parties, craft workshops, slime stations and scavenger hunts – plus pop-up activities like kung fu, yoga and trampolining scattered throughout the program.
Ticket prices for the rink start at $17 for under fours, $22 for kids under 14 and $29 for adults, with a $77 family pass also available.
If you’re the type to romanticise winter, gliding across the ice beneath Sydney’s skyline is about as dreamy as it gets. And if you’re not? Well, at the very least, it’s a guaranteed laugh.
You can book over here.
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Want more winter fun? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Sydney this winter.
While you're in the area, check out Hay Street Market.