Assiniboine Park duck pond opens for skating on Thursday

Get yourblades sharp and lace up the skates, one of Winnipeg's most popular skating sites is set to open.

The Riley Family Duck Pondin Assiniboine Park will be ready to welcome skaters at noon Thursday.

The tobogganrunjustsouthofthepondisalready open and the nearbyParkCafwill be open for breakfastandlunch.

If you need a breakor want to warm up after youroutdoor adventure, the fireplace will be roaring inside the family centre attheedgeofthe pond.

If you're looking to explore more of the park, the conservatory will be open daily 9 a.m. until 4p.m. with no admission required. And until Jan.3, the Assiniboine Park Zoo is offering free admission to children age12 and younger.