Ice Skating Prices in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Ice skating in Johannesburg offers a refreshing escape from the city’s warm climate, blending fun, fitness, and family-friendly entertainment. Whether you’re a beginner gliding for the first time or an experienced skater perfecting your spins, Johannesburg’s ice rinks provide a vibrant setting for all skill levels. This article dives into the latest 2025 prices for ice skating in Johannesburg, covering entry fees, skate hire costs, and special offers at top rinks like Northgate, Festival Mall, and The Grove. We’ll also explore skating academies, group rates, and tips to make your experience unforgettable. With a focus on affordability and accessibility, this guide ensures you have all the details to plan your next icy adventure in Gauteng’s bustling capital.

Crafted with expertise and up-to-date information, this evergreen article aims to answer your questions about costs and options while highlighting the best rinks in Johannesburg. Let’s lace up and explore the cool world of ice skating!

Ice Skating Prices in Johannesburg

Northgate Ice Rink Prices

Located in the Northgate Shopping Centre, Northgate Ice Rink is a popular destination for families and skaters of all ages. According to recent updates, here are the 2025 prices:

  • Entry Fee: R65 per person for a day session (10:00 AM to 5:00 PM).

  • Skate Hire: R35 per person if you don’t own skates.

  • Non-Skater Entry: Free for spectators accompanying skaters.

  • Group Rates:

    • Groups of 10+: R50 per person (entry and skate hire).

    • Groups of 20+: R45 per person.

    • Groups of 50+: R40 per person.

  • Cheap Skate Card: R350 for 10 entries (no skate hire included).

  • Special Offers:

    • Tuesday nights: Half-price entry (R32.50).

    • Sunday Night Madness (7:30 PM to 10:00 PM): R30 for entry and skate hire.

Additional costs include blade sharpening for personal skates at R35 and ice penguins (support aids for kids) at R75, non-refundable. Socks are available for purchase at R25.

Festival Mall Ice Rink Prices

Situated in Kempton Park, Festival Mall Ice Rink offers a vibrant skating experience with the following pricing:

  • Entry Fee: R95 per person per session.

  • Skate Hire: Free on Sunday nights (7:30 PM to 10:00 PM).

  • Cheap Skate Card: R350 for 10 entries.

  • Cheap Skate and Hire Card: Includes 10 entries with skate hire (price not specified, check directly with the rink).

Note that Festival Mall is closed to the public on Monday and Tuesday evenings due to ice hockey leagues.

The Grove Ice Rink Prices

Located in Pretoria’s Kolonnade Shopping Centre, The Grove Ice Rink is another excellent option for Johannesburg-area skaters:

  • Entry Fee: R85 per person per session.

  • Skate Hire: Free on Sunday nights (7:30 PM to 10:00 PM).

  • Cheap Skate Card: R350 for 10 entries.

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The Grove also hosts skating academies and is closed to the public on certain evenings for sports activities.

The Ice Station (Cape Town Reference)

While not in Johannesburg, The Ice Station in Cape Town provides a useful comparison for pricing trends in South Africa:

  • Entry Fee: R65 (own skates) or R75 (hire skates) for standard sessions (10:00 AM to 1:30 PM).

  • Mini Rink: R40 per child (under 1.3m) for skate hire.

  • Non-Skater Entry: R10 per person.

These prices reflect a similar structure to Johannesburg rinks, though The Ice Station is farther away and less relevant for local skaters.

Additional Costs and Considerations

  • Skating Academies: Many rinks, including Northgate and The Grove, offer eight-week learn-to-skate courses, typically held on Wednesday evenings or weekend mornings. Prices vary, so contact rinks directly (e.g., Glenda Slabbert at Northgate: [email protected] or +27 (0)11 794-8706).

  • Kiosk and Refreshments: Rinks have kiosks selling snacks like sweets, chips, and drinks. Northgate also has a Fontana Bakery on-site for more substantial meals.

  • Clothing: Wear thick socks to protect your feet, and bring a sweater as rinks can be chilly. A change of clothes is advisable as the ice can wet your outfit.

These prices are subject to change, so always check the rink’s official website (e.g., www.theicerink.co.za) or contact them directly for the latest rates.

Why Ice Skating in Johannesburg Is Worth It

Ice skating in Johannesburg isn’t just about the cost—it’s about the experience. The city’s rinks offer a unique blend of fun, exercise, and social interaction, making them ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers. Here’s why you should consider hitting the ice:

  • Year-Round Activity: Unlike outdoor rinks in colder climates, Johannesburg’s indoor rinks are open daily, unaffected by Gauteng’s sunny weather.

  • Fitness Benefits: Skating engages nearly every muscle, improves coordination, and burns calories, making it a fun way to stay active.

  • Social and Family-Friendly: Rinks cater to all ages, with group rates and kid-friendly aids like ice penguins. They’re also great for birthday parties and corporate events.

  • Skill Development: From casual gliding to figure skating or ice hockey, rinks offer academies to help you progress. Many skaters have gone on to represent South Africa internationally.

Top Ice Rinks in Johannesburg and Surrounding Areas

Johannesburg and its nearby areas boast several well-equipped ice rinks. Below, we detail the top venues to help you choose the best one for your needs.

Northgate Ice Rink

  • Location: Northgate Shopping Centre, corner of Northumberland Road and Olievenhout Avenue, Northriding.

  • Features: This rink is known for its lively atmosphere and extensive facilities, including a skating academy, ice hockey practice, and a speed skating club (Friday nights, 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM, unless booked for private events). It’s conveniently located with free parking and nearby restaurants.

  • Pros: Affordable group rates, family-friendly, and open daily (10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, except certain holidays).

  • Cons: Can be crowded on weekends, especially after payday, and credit card machines may be slow. Arrive 30 minutes early to avoid delays.

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Festival Mall Ice Rink

  • Location: Corner CR Swart Drive and Kelvin Street, Kempton Park.

  • Features: Offers public skating sessions, ice hockey leagues, and a skating academy. The rink is ideal for east Johannesburg residents and has a similar pricing structure to Northgate.

  • Pros: Sunday night deals and group discounts make it budget-friendly.

  • Cons: Closed to the public on Monday and Tuesday evenings for ice hockey.

The Grove Ice Rink

  • Location: Kolonnade Shopping Centre, Montana Park, Pretoria.

  • Features: A great option for those in Pretoria, The Grove hosts figure skating lessons through the SA School of Skating and offers similar pricing and discounts to other rinks.

  • Pros: Less crowded than Northgate, with free skate hire on Sunday nights.

  • Cons: Slightly farther for Johannesburg residents, and public sessions may be limited during sports events.

Other Options

  • Fun-FX Mobile Ice Rink: For unique events, Fun-FX offers synthetic mobile ice rinks for parties or corporate functions, complete with a free snow machine. Contact them for pricing and availability.

  • Eastgate Shopping Centre: While primarily known for Mel’s Skate Shop, Eastgate offers learn-to-skate programs. Check with Mel’s Skate Shop for details on sessions and costs.

Tips for a Great Ice Skating Experience in Johannesburg

To maximize your ice skating adventure, consider these practical tips:

  1. Dress Appropriately: Wear thick socks and layered clothing to stay warm. Bring a change of clothes in case you get wet from falls or ice shavings.

  2. Arrive Early: Especially at Northgate, where payment systems can be slow. Arriving 30 minutes early ensures you have time to pay and lace up.

  3. Consider Group Rates: If skating with friends or family, group discounts can save you money. Book in advance for larger groups.

  4. Join a Skating Academy: For beginners or those looking to improve, academies at Northgate and The Grove offer structured lessons. Contact rinks for schedules and pricing.

  5. Check Session Times: Rinks may close for private events, ice hockey, or refurbishments (e.g., Galleria Ice Rink is closed until March 21, 2025, for refurbishment). Always check www.theicerink.co.za for updates.

  6. Stay Safe: Beginners should stick to the edges of the rink to avoid collisions with experienced skaters. Ice penguins are great for kids learning to balance.

  7. Bring Snacks or Budget for Kiosks: While rinks have kiosks, bringing your own snacks can save money. Northgate’s Fontana Bakery is a good option for a post-skate meal.

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Learn to Skate: Academies and Development Programs

For those interested in taking skating to the next level, Johannesburg’s rinks offer structured programs:

  • Northgate Skating Academy: Runs eight-week courses on Wednesday evenings and Saturday/Sunday mornings. Contact Glenda Slabbert for details (+27 (0)11 794-8706).

  • SA School of Skating at The Grove: Focuses on figure skating, teaching coordination, strength, and perseverance. Lessons are tailored for kids and adults, with experienced coaches.

  • Ice Hockey and Figure Skating Clubs: Many rinks, including Northgate and The Grove, host clubs affiliated with the Western Province Ice Hockey Association and the South African Figure Skating Association (SAFSA). These clubs offer pathways to competitive skating.

Regular practice is key to mastering skating, and these programs provide professional coaching to help you progress from basic glides to advanced spins or hockey skills.

Why Choose Ice Skating in Johannesburg?

Ice skating in Johannesburg combines affordability, accessibility, and fun. With rinks like Northgate, Festival Mall, and The Grove offering competitive prices and special deals, you can enjoy a day on the ice without breaking the bank. The rinks’ central locations in shopping centres make them convenient for a full day out, with dining and shopping options nearby. Whether you’re looking for a casual skate, a family outing, or a new skill to master, Johannesburg’s ice rinks deliver a cool experience for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does ice skating cost in Johannesburg?
Entry fees range from R65 to R95 per session, with skate hire at R20–R35. Discounts like Tuesday half-price nights and Sunday free skate hire can lower costs.

Are there group discounts for ice skating?
Yes, Northgate offers group rates: R50 for 10+, R45 for 20+, and R40 for 50+ (including skate hire).

Can beginners learn to skate in Johannesburg?
Absolutely! Rinks like Northgate and The Grove offer skating academies with eight-week courses for all ages.

What should I wear for ice skating?
Wear thick socks, layered clothing, and a sweater. Bring a change of clothes in case you get wet.

Conclusion

Ice skating in Johannesburg is an affordable, fun, and active way to enjoy time with friends or family. With prices starting at R30 for special sessions and group discounts as low as R40 per person, rinks like Northgate, Festival Mall, and The Grove make skating accessible to all. Whether you’re a beginner or aspiring figure skater, Johannesburg’s rinks offer something for everyone. Check rink websites for the latest schedules and prices, lace up your skates, and glide into a memorable experience!