Illustration of skaters in knitted hats on an outdoor ice rink ringed with trees and string lights (Drijvende IJsbaan Leiden)
Other Christmas Activities

Drijvende IJsbaan Leiden

Visitors skate under festive holiday lights on an ice rink floating on pontoons in the historic center of Leiden. Novice and young skaters can use dolphin-shaped skating supports or four-bladed balance skates, while spectators and skaters can purchase refreshments at an on-site winter chalet. Admission functions as a day pass, allowing guests to leave to explore the city and return to the ice later.

Dec 5, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Admission is €9.50. The ticket is valid for the entire day of purchase. Rental skates are included.

Hours

Daily 10:00–21:00; Christmas Day and the second day of Christmas 11:30–17:00; New Year’s Eve 10:00–17:00; New Year’s Day 12:00–17:00; closing day 10:00–17:00. The rink closes on 3 January 2027 at 17:00.

Food & Drink

An on-site winter-themed hospitality chalet sells refreshments.

Accessibility

The rink's pontoons are wheelchair accessible via a specially designed entrance and exit.

Location

Nieuwe Rijn · Nieuwe Rijn, Leiden, Netherlands Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children and casual skaters

Vibe

Festive and playful

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Bring your own gloves, because gloves are compulsory on the ice for skaters and companions alike and aren't included with any ticket.
  • Your ticket is valid all day, so you can take a break at one of the cafés along the Nieuwe Rijn and head back onto the ice later.
  • If you bring your own skates, make sure they're hockey or figure skates, because Noren aren't allowed on this rink.
  • Get to the ticket office in good time, because it closes half an hour before the rink does each day.
  • Use one of the 100 lockers for your valuables while you skate; they're first come, first served.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Kik Family Morning every Saturday and Sunday morning, with a Frozen theme, Olaf and Elsa on the ice, kids' music and face painting.
  • Flügel Friday party night on 12 December, with music and lights for groups of friends, colleagues or sports teams.
  • Après Skate Party on 19 December, an Alpine-style party on skates with ugly Christmas jumpers welcome.
  • Silent Disco on 23 and 30 December, with wireless headphones and three music channels.
  • Winterbier tasting of six winter beers on 2 January; this needs a separate ticket.

Links & Contact

Run by Stichting Sport in Beeld

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can beginners and small children skate here?

Yes. If you're not a confident skater, you can use the ice dolphins for support. The youngest skaters can use four-bladed skates that help them glide steadily.

Do I need gloves?

Yes, gloves are compulsory on the ice and aren't included in any ticket. If you forget yours, you can buy a pair at the rink.

Can I bring my own skates?

Yes, as long as they're hockey or figure skates. Noren (long-track skates) aren't allowed.

Can I go on the ice with my child without buying a ticket?

Yes, as long as you don't skate. Companions on the ice also have to wear gloves.

How can I volunteer?

Join the crew through the sign-up link on the rink's site. Volunteers help with ticket sales, skate rental, checks on the ice and the food and drink chalet, and there's a job for every age and level of experience.

Browse Christmas in Leiden

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Event details verified: