BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Ice at Canalside rink is finally opening on Friday after the blizzard that hit Western New York two weeks ago. 

Mike Spong, business development manager for Canalside says there were 9 inches extra of snow and ice, and it took a while to get it back to the safe level of ice for people to skate on.

The ice rink kicks off its 2023 season with a Buffalo Strong skate on January 6 from 6-10 p.m. 

The skate is in partnership with Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York and will raise money for the American Heart Association to go towards CPR training. This comes after some people lost their lives in the blizzard due to cardiac arrest as well as Bills safety Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest while on the field. 

Out of every admission ticket, $1 will go towards the foundation as well as money raised from raffle tickets for a signed Dion Dawkins helmet and signed Stefon Diggs football.

“We are thrilled to get skaters back and provide a place for Buffalonians to come together at the Ice at Canalside,” said Lauren Moloney-Ford, General Manager, Buffalo Waterfront. “On top of skating, ice bikes, bumper cars and igloos, we will be offering several promotions for everyone to take advantage of between now and the end of the skating season.”

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