Toronto's under-highway skate trail returning for rest of the summer

The Bentway is bringing back its iconic figure-eight skate trail for the rest of the summer, starting next month.

After weeks of FIFA World Cup action, Toronto's The Bentway is back to business, opening up its 200-metre skating trail for another season of roller skating under the Gardiner.

Not only will you be able to enjoy some skating action this summer, but you will also be able to take part in a series of community-driven events. These include skate parties, beginner lessons, art workshops, family programming, and the launch of a brand-new after-school program for young city-builders.

"The energy of the World Cup doesn't end with the final match–it lives on in the public spaces where people continue to gather, play, and connect," says Anna Gallagher-Ross, director of programming at The Bentway.

"Whether you're lacing up roller skates for the first time, making art with friends old and new, taking your family on a Dino Run, or discovering a new perspective on Toronto through our After School program, we've designed experiences for people of all ages that celebrate movement, creativity, exploration, and time spent together in public space."

What to expect this year at The Bentway?

All the skating fun begins on Aug. 7, with what organizers call "The Bentway's legendary Roller Skate Party." It's co-hosted by BEATS + SKATES and The Melanin Skate Crew. This free community celebration will feature DJs, live painting, skate performances, vendors, and so much more, setting the tone for what to expect this upcoming season.

And during the event, there will be a limited two-for-one roller skate rental promotion, available while supplies last.

New to skating? Weekly Roller Skate Lessons will be held every Friday night through September, making it perfect for beginners.

Other programming includes:

The Bentway Skate Trail + Skate Rentals

When: Aug. 8 to Sept. 27, 2026
Time: Fridays from 5 to 9 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 8 p.m.
Where: The Bentway Skate Trail — 250 Fort York Blvd.
Cost: Skating is free, Rentals start at $18 (plus tax)

Roller skate lessons

When: Aug. 7 to Sept. 25, 2026
Time: Two sessions: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. or 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: The Bentway Skate Trail — 250 Fort York Blvd.
Cost: $15 (equipment rentals not included), Registration required

Art Socials in partnership with Noble Space

When: Now until Aug. 25, 2026
Time: Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: The Bentway Studio — 55 Fort York Blvd.
Cost: $15 (plus fees), Registration required.

The Bentway Skating Trail season kicks off Aug. 7 and runs until Sept. 27, 2026.