A free winter fan zone brings skating and sport to Sheffield city centre
To celebrate Sheffield hosting the ISU European Figure Skating Championships, the city centre will be transformed this January with a vibrant European Figure Skating Championships Fan Zone, located in the heart of the city at the Peace Gardens.

Running from 10 to 18 January 2026, the Fan Zone offers a week-long programme of free activities for residents, visitors, families, and skating fans — centred around a free-to-use outdoor artificial ice rink.

Ice Rink: Multiple daily sessions
Weekends (Saturday–Sunday): 10:00 – 20:00
Weekdays (Monday–Friday): 14:00 – 20:00
What’s happening at the Fan Zone?
The Fan Zone is designed to create a lively, inclusive atmosphere throughout Championships week, with activities suitable for all ages:
Free Outdoor Ice Rink – Public skating sessions with skate hire included, plus themed sessions every day
Big Screen Coverage – Live broadcasts from the Championships, highlights, and entertainment
Food & Drink Stalls – Hot drinks, family-friendly street food, and local vendors
Entertainment & Activities – Interactive fun throughout the week
Free School Skating Sessions – Giving local pupils the chance to try skating
The rink opens on Saturday morning ahead of Championships week and runs through to Sunday evening after the final competitive events.
Sustainable skating in the city centre
In line with Sheffield’s environmental priorities, the rink will use artificial ice rather than real ice. This more sustainable option significantly reduces energy use while still providing an enjoyable skating experience and helping make the rink accessible to more people.
A major moment for Sheffield sport
The Fan Zone celebrates Sheffield hosting the Championships at the Utilita Arena Sheffield from 13–18 January 2026— marking the first time in over a decade that the UK has welcomed this prestigious international competition.

The Fan Zone is hosted by Sheffield City Council and British Ice Skating, with additional support from Sheffield BID and UK Sport.

💷 Price: FREE

Event details

Sheffield hosts one of the most prestigious events in international winter sport as the ISU European Figure Skating Championships 2026 arrive at the Utilita Arena Sheffield.

Taking place from 13–18 January 2026, this landmark event brings Europe’s elite figure skaters to the ice for six days of world-class competition, artistry, and athletic excellence. It marks the first time in more than a decade that the UK has hosted the European Championships.

Organised under the auspices of the International Skating Union, the Championships feature around 160 of Europe’s top competitors across:
Men’s Singles
Women’s Singles
Pairs
Ice Dance
As one of the final major championships before the 2026 Milan–Cortina Olympic Winter Games, the event offers a rare opportunity to see Olympic-level performances in Sheffield.
Competition Schedule (Subject to Change)
Wednesday 14 January 2026
13:00–16:00: Pairs Short Program
16:15–16:45: Opening Ceremony
17:00–22:00: Women’s Short Program
Thursday 15 January 2026
13:00–18:00: Men’s Short Program
19:00–22:00: Pairs Free Skating & Victory Ceremony
Friday 16 January 2026
12:00–17:00: Ice Dance Rhythm Dance
18:00–22:00: Women’s Free Skating & Victory Ceremony
Saturday 17 January 2026
13:00–17:00: Men’s Free Skating & Victory Ceremony
18:30–22:00: Ice Dance Free Dance & Victory Ceremony
Sunday 18 January 2026
15:00–17:00: Exhibition of Champions Gala
Exact timings will be confirmed closer to the event.
A City-Wide Celebration
Beyond the arena, Sheffield will host a wide-ranging programme of community, school, and cultural activities in the lead-up to and during the Championships, delivered in partnership with Sheffield City Council, British Ice Skating, Everyone Active, and local schools and organisations.

Councillor Mohammed Mahroof, Chair of the Economic Development, Skills and Culture Committee at Sheffield City Council, said:

ISU European Championships Ambassador Mark Hanretty added:
Tickets, Volunteering & Legacy
Tickets will be released in phases, including practice access, single-day tickets, and the Exhibition of Champions Gala. A comprehensive volunteer programme will also offer opportunities to support the Championships and be part of this historic event.

The Championships aim to leave a lasting legacy in Sheffield by encouraging greater participation in ice sports, expanding access for young people and SEND communities, and strengthening the city’s sporting profile long after the final skater leaves the ice.

Further information is available at: https://www.europeans2026.com

Event details