February 25, 2026 - The Fort William Gardens, Northwestern Ontario’s most iconic sports and entertainment venue, first opened on March 6, 1951 and is preparing to commemorate its 75th Anniversary.

To mark this special occasion, everyone is invited to celebrate the long, proud history of the Fort William Gardens on Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm. The 75th Anniversary event will feature a short ceremony followed by a public skate with members of the Lakehead University Thunderwolves Men’s Hockey Team. Admission is free. All skaters are required to wear a CSA certified hockey helmet.

“Over the past 75 years, the Fort William Gardens has been at the heart of Thunder Bay’s sports and entertainment scene,” said Paul Burke, Supervisor - Sport & Community Development. “To this day, the Gardens remains a place that brings people together and is part of the fabric of this community. We look forward to celebrating the rich history of this place where so many wonderful memories were made.”

Photos from throughout the facility’s 75-year history will be on display throughout the Gardens for the next several months thanks to the Thunder Bay Museum, Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame and City of Thunder Bay Archives. The 75th Anniversary initiatives are supported by the City of Thunder Bay Clean, Green & Beautiful Committee.

Everyone is invited to share their memories on the Fort William Gardens Facebook and Instagram pages.

Public Skate Information

Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026

Time: 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm

Location: Fort William Gardens, 901 Miles St. E.

For more information regarding the 75th Anniversary public skate visit: www.thunderbay.ca/fwgardens.

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Contact: Paul Burke, Supervisor - Sport & Community Development, (807) 627-9415