Ice skating with kids in Stockholm

The City of Stockholm floods many rinks in winter, and they are usually open to the public. Flooded rinks need a long cold spell. If you want to be sure of ice, an artificial rink is best, since it works even when it isn't very cold. Opening hours can be limited, so check the city's page before you go.

Artificial ice rinks in the City of Stockholm

• Kungsträdgården
• Medborgarplatsen
• Vasaparken
• Skärholmstorget (synthetic ice)
• Aspudden sports ground
• Bäverdalen ball court
• Eriksdal ball court
• Husby ice hall outdoor rink
• Sköndal ball court
• Spånga sports ground

There are also artificial rinks mostly booked by clubs that have some public hours. The city has a search for every rink at motionera.stockholm.

Natural ice: at your own risk

After a long cold spell the city ploughs tracks on several lakes. There's no service that reports ice conditions, so you have to judge for yourself whether the ice holds. Skating on lake ice is always at your own risk.

The Swedish Lifesaving Society reminds skaters of KUS: knowledge, equipment and company. Don't go out on lake ice without all three. With kids, our advice is to stick to ploughed tracks and artificial rinks.

Tips for the youngest

• Helmet. 1177 says children need a helmet when skating.
• Mittens, not gloves. That's our advice, since hands hit the ice a lot at first and mittens keep warmth better.
• Short sessions. Our advice: start with a short go and head inside to warm up now and then. Standing still on the ice is colder than you'd think.
• Support. Many beginners find it easier with something to hold or push. Ask at the rink what is allowed.