By City Manager Ken Striplin
As we enter the winter season, The Cube Ice and Entertainment Center, presented by FivePoint Valencia, continues to serve as one of Santa Clarita’s premier destinations for ice sports, recreation and community connection. From festive celebrations to ongoing programs for residents of all ages, The Cube offers a full calendar of activities and events.
The winter festivities begin on Thursday, December 5 with two signature events that have become local favorites. The evening opens with the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7:00 p.m., with a massive, real Christmas tree right in the middle of The Pond ice rink. Our City Council will be joined by representatives from the L.A. Kings organization, including their mascot Bailey, to flip the switch and illuminate the lights on the tree. Following the lighting, guests will be treated to a sneak peek of the Holiday Skate Show. The Christmas tree will remain at The Cube throughout the holiday season, making for a perfect backdrop for your festive photos.
Later that same night, The Cube will host its annual Teddy Bear Toss during the matchup between West Ranch Hockey and the Burbank Cougars Varsity Hockey teams. The game begins at 8:15 p.m., and guests are encouraged to bring a new teddy bear or stuffed animal to throw onto the ice after West Ranch scores its first goal. All donated bears will support foster children through The RISE Foundation.
The excitement continues the next weekend with the full performances of the Holiday Skate Show on December 12 and 13. This year’s theme, A Nutcracker Fantasy, will feature local skaters bringing Tchaikovsky’s famed holiday story to life on the ice through creative choreography and engaging performances. The show highlights the skill and dedication of the athletes who train at The Cube throughout the year.
The celebration builds to one of the year’s most anticipated traditions, Santa Clarita Kings Day, taking place on Saturday, December 13, at Crypto.com Arena. Each winter, hundreds of Santa Clarita residents and City staff fill a designated section to cheer on the L.A. Kings together. The event highlights Santa Clarita’s strong sense of community and hometown pride, giving participants the opportunity to represent the City on a regional stage, while enjoying an exciting night of professional hockey.
In addition to these featured events, The Cube continues to offer programs and amenities for the entire community. Ice skating classes, the Legends Hockey League and Holiday Magic on Ice public sessions provide opportunities for recreation and skill development. The facility also serves as a venue for birthday parties, corporate events and community gatherings, making it a year-round resource for residents.
For details about programs, events and rentals, visit TheCubeSantaClarita.com or call (661) 257-2823.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.
