Helsinki residents will once again be able to skate at the Oulunkylä artificial ice field, which reopens to the public on Sunday following renovations that began last year.

The overhaul included upgrades to the ice field itself, the refrigeration technology of the adjacent ice hall and the maintenance building, which houses a gym and exercise hall. The refrigeration system was modernised into a hybrid model utilising geothermal heat and condensation heat from the cooling process.

Despite the extensive work, the site's historically protected features — including the concrete light poles and the lights suspended above the ice — have been preserved.

Built in 1977, the Oulunkylä rink is considered Europe's largest single artificial ice surface during winter and remains one of Helsinki's most popular skating venues.

Deputy Mayor Paavo Arhinmäki (Left) said maintaining natural ice has become increasingly difficult as winters warm.

"It is even more important that we continue to provide Helsinki residents with winter sports opportunities, such as free-of-charge public skating slots on artificial ice fields," he said, adding that the renovation was carried out "with respect for the old and traditional while still utilising today's technologies and necessities."

The Oulunkylä field has space for two bandy rinks and three speed skating tracks. Free public skating sessions will be held daily, with separate areas reserved for skaters and stick users.

Artificial ice facilities across Helsinki will open gradually through November and December depending on weather conditions, with public skating remaining free of charge citywide.

Family event to mark official opening

The city will hold an official opening event for the Oulunkylä ice field on Saturday 29 November. The free family event will feature appearances by Deputy Mayor Arhinmäki and rapper VilleGalle, as well as demonstrations and activities from Finnish ice sports associations.

Visitors will be able to try a range of ice sports with guidance from local clubs, while Helsinki's sports services will organise games and activities at the edge of the rink. The event will conclude with an ice disco.

A new artificial ice field will also open in Sipoo's Söderkulla on Sunday, featuring a rink and a free-skating area. Outside the skating season, the site is used as a sand-based artificial turf field.