IJsbaan Haarlem

Beneath the arched roof of IJsbaan Haarlem, a story unfolds. A story of resilience, innovation, and the enduring love for ice. IJsbaan Haarlem isn’t just a place to skate. It’s a testament to the community’s dedication, rising from setbacks to become a world-class facility. IJsbaan Haarlem opened in 1977 as Kunstijsbaan Kennemerland. It was built on the site of a pre-war natural ice rink. Excitement soon turned to disappointment as the ground beneath the rink began to sink. The marshy terrain caused significant issues, forcing the rink’s closure just two years later. Undeterred, the community rallied. In 1983, a new and improved IJsbaan Haarlem reopened its doors. The rink continued to evolve. In 1999, the old wooden changing rooms were replaced with a modern brick building. A major upgrade came in 2005 with the addition of a 30×60-meter ice surface in the center of the complex. This new area catered to a variety of ice sports like curling, short track, figure skating, bandy, and ice hockey. IJsbaan Haarlem also made history that year. It became the first ice rink in the world to switch to carbon dioxide (CO2) cooling under the ice. This innovative approach made the rink safer and more environmentally friendly than traditional ammonia-cooled rinks. IJsbaan Haarlem continued its transformation in the summer of 2006. The 400-meter track received a partial roof, designed by architect W. M. Peltenburg of Archstudio architecten. Plans for a full enclosure and further expansion of the central ice area are in the works. In 2016, the central 30×60-meter ice surface also received a roof, adding to the comfort and usability of the facility. IJsbaan Haarlem is more than just an ice rink. It is a place where champions are born. Speed skaters like Esmée Visser and Yvonne van Gennip have graced this ice, inspiring future generations. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, IJsbaan Haarlem welcomes you. Here, under the watchful eye of the arched roof, you become part of a story of perseverance and passion. A story written on ice.