The City of Windsor is extending its marquee outdoor holiday festival as residents cope with the latest COVID-19 restrictions.
Instead of wrapping up on Sunday night, Bright Lights Windsor is a go until January 16.
The vendors' market, performances, and other activities will end at 10 p.m. on Saturday, but the extra week of displays will give families more time to enjoy a safe outdoor activity.
"This is a difficult time, and many individuals and families in Windsor are looking for safe options to get outdoors and participate in healthy physical activities," said Mayor Drew Dilkens. "Extending Bright Lights Windsor and increasing our outdoor skating availability will help give folks options to stay physically and mentally healthy at a time when we need it most."
The city announced the ice pad at Charles Clark Square should be ready next week, and extra hours are being added at the rink in Lanspeary Park on Ottawa Street.
Because of public health restrictions, the Lanspeary Lions Rink is open for rentals from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. from Monday to Friday. On the weekends, public skating is allowed from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Free public skating times have been added from Monday to Friday from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Reservations to skate at Charles Clark Square open on January 10, with times available from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily until January 26.
Anyone who wants to book a time to skate can register online at www.ActiveWindsor.ca.
Participants should arrive no more than ten minutes before their reservation, and helmets are encouraged. Masking is mandatory off the ice, along with physical distancing during check-in.