Locarno on Ice Opening Hours for 2026

The main skating rink usually opens at ten in the morning every single day. It remains open until ten at night from Sunday through Thursday each festive week. These long hours give you plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful ice rink. You can easily plan a morning skate or a romantic evening visit here.

On Fridays and Saturdays, the rink stays open much later for all the guests. You can skate until one in the morning during these lively weekend nights. The atmosphere becomes very exciting as the sun goes down over the city. It is the perfect place for a late night out with your friends.

The food stalls and igloo bars often follow these same late night operating hours. You can grab a warm drink after the skating rink closes for the day. Most vendors start serving delicious local snacks around mid-morning for the early crowds. The entire square stays active throughout the whole day and night.

Please note that these times might change during periods of very heavy rain. The organizers prioritize safety for all skaters on the ice at all times. You should check the local weather before you head to the main square. Most days the rink remains open regardless of the cold winter air.

For more details on the event, check our Locarno on Ice 2026 guide. This resource helps you plan every part of your winter holiday in Locarno.

Holiday Hours and Special Event Timing

During the Christmas holidays, the schedule for the ice rink may change slightly. On Christmas Eve, the rink usually closes earlier to allow staff to go home. You can typically enjoy the ice until six in the evening on that day. Plan your visit early if you want to skate on December 24th.

Christmas Day often sees the rink opening a bit later in the afternoon hours. It usually welcomes guests starting at two in the afternoon for festive skating fun. The evening hours remain the same as the standard winter schedule for visitors. This is a wonderful way to spend your holiday with the whole family.

New Year's Eve is the biggest night of the season at the Piazza Grande. The rink and bars stay open until the very early hours of the morning. You can celebrate the countdown on the ice with music and bright lights. It is a unique experience that you will remember for many years.

Live music performances usually begin in the early evening around seven or eight o'clock. These shows add a great energy to the square during the cold winter nights. You should arrive early to find a good spot near the main stage. Check the Locarno winter events 2026 list for specific concert dates.

Best Times to Visit Piazza Grande

Morning sessions are the best time for beginners and families with small children. The ice is fresh and the crowds are very thin before the lunch hour. You can practice your skating skills without worrying about bumping into other people. Most schools and large groups arrive later in the afternoon or evening.

Evening visits offer the most magical atmosphere with thousands of twinkling fairy lights. The square glows with color and the music creates a very festive mood. This is the peak time for social gatherings and enjoying the local bars. You will find the most energy in the square after six o'clock.

If you want to take great photos, arrive just before the sun starts setting. The light over the mountains and the lake is truly beautiful during this time. You can capture the rink as the lights begin to shine against the sky. This golden hour provides the best conditions for your holiday social media posts.

Weekends are naturally much busier than the quiet weekdays in the city of Locarno. If you prefer a calm experience, try to visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday. You will have more space on the ice and shorter lines for food. This makes for a much more relaxing visit to the winter festival.

Planning Your Trip to Locarno on Ice

Getting to the Piazza Grande is very simple if you use public transportation options. The main train station is only a short walk away from the festivities. You can follow the signs through the charming streets to find the square. Learn how to get to Piazza Grande for a stress-free journey.

Skate rentals are available right next to the ice rink for all visitors. You do not need to bring your own equipment to enjoy the ice. The rental shop opens at the same time as the skating rink daily. Make sure to wear thick socks to keep your feet warm and comfortable.

Before you go, you should also look at the current ticket prices for Locarno on Ice. Knowing the costs in advance helps you manage your travel budget much better. There are often discounts for children and large groups visiting the rink. Credit cards and cash are both accepted at the main ticket office.

For more official information, you can visit the Ascona-Locarno Tourism website. They provide updates on all regional activities during the busy winter season. This helps ensure your trip to Switzerland is successful and very enjoyable. Always check for any last-minute schedule updates before you leave your hotel.