Skate, eat and celebrate as Ice Cube returns to Leeds City Centre

Leeds is set to sparkle this holiday season as the much-loved Ice Cube at Christmas returns to Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens, and Cookridge Street from 21 November 2025. A highlight of the city’s festive calendar, the event promises something for everyone — from the ever-popular covered ice rink and traditional Christmas market stalls to thrilling rides and cosy seasonal hangouts.

The event will run daily with hours varying from 12pm to 9:30pm Monday through Thursday (10pm on Fridays), 11am to 10pm on Saturdays, and 11am to 7pm on Sundays (except Christmas and Boxing Day) up until New Year’s Eve.

At the heart of the festivities is the 400 square metre covered ice rink beneath a beautiful transparent marquee, offering daily skating sessions perfect for gliding into the holiday season.

For younger skaters, the Penguin Club returns, giving children under nine the chance to learn to skate in a fun and safe environment with the help of adorable penguin skating aids. The club runs every weekend at 10.15am, with additional sessions during half-term.

Aspiring skaters can also enjoy one-to-one skating lessons each weekend. While wheelchair users and other disabled visitors are welcome across all skating sessions, dedicated accessible sessions will also take place every Thursday at 10.15am (except 4 December).

After gliding across the ice, guests can explore a vibrant selection of Bavarian-style market stalls, offering festive favourites such as German bratwurst, smoked brisket (new for 2025), Canadian-style poutine as well as indulgent sweet treats including churros, homemade crumble, warm caramelised nuts (new for 2025), and toasted marshmallows.

To relax and soak up the seasonal atmosphere, visitors can stop by the alpine-inspired Ski Bar, complete with the iconic four-metre illuminated Ski Bear.

The festive fun continues with a range of rides for all ages. Families and little thrill-seekers can take in the city lights from the illuminated Big Wheel on Victoria Gardens, now fully wheelchair accessible, spin on the Golden Gallopers carousel on Cookridge Street, or soar on the 30-metre-high Starflyer in Millennium Square. A variety of children’s rides and winter-themed games ensures that no one misses out on the excitement.

Roger Tuby of International Funfairs, who along with Stewart Robinson will be bringing a selection of rides and attractions for the event, said: “We’re excited to once again partner with Leeds City Council to bring a magical winter wonderland feel to the city. Millennium Square, Cookridge Street and Victoria Gardens will be transformed with attractions, great food and drink, and favourites like the Ski Bar, Wheel of Light, North Pole Star Flyer and traditional carousel — offering something for everyone this holiday season.”

Ice Cube at Christmas will run alongside Leeds Christmas Market which will take over City Square between Friday 21 November to Sunday 21 December 2025. Further information can be found on the Visit Leeds website.

Adding to the holiday cheer, Thor’s Tipi will once again offer a cosy escape in front of Leeds Art Gallery, complete with warming drinks, hearty food, and live music nights. More information can be found on the Thor’s Tipi website.

Amanda Monaghan, Director of THOR’S tipi commented: “It’s our 9th Year in Leeds at Christmas - we love being here and this year we’re going all out! We have new and exciting Christmas cocktails, including the THOR’S Baubleini, extra log fires and so many fairy lights. Can’t wait to see you under the mistletoe!”

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said: “Once again we can’t wait for the festive season to begin and to see everyone in the city enjoying everything Leeds has to offer.

“We’re so pleased to be hosting Ice Cube again this year alongside the wonderful Christmas market and Thor’s Tipi, bringing people some festive cheer to look forward to!”

Tickets for the ice rink are available from November 7. Admission is priced at £12.75 for adults, £11.50 for students and LEEDSCard holders, and £9.75 for children under 13. Off-peak prices of £10.00 are available for all ticket types Monday to Thursday from 12:15pm to 5pm. Breeze Pass holders will also benefit from an exclusive 10% discount off all admission prices.

Advance tickets are available to purchase online at www.icecubeleeds.co.uk. On the day tickets (subject to availability) will also be available in person from the event ticket office located at the Carriageworks Theatre directly overlooking the venue.

For further event and attraction details and ice rink booking information including skating session times please visit: www.icecubeleeds.co.uk.