A new weekend curling rink has opened up on top of Gimli’s Interlake Brewing Co. restaurant.
Interlake Brewing Co. owners Graeme Maclean and Kristin MacCary opened the rooftop curling rink in mid-January for restaurant patrons who wanted to brave the extreme temperatures.
“We opened Interlake Brewing Co. one-and-a-half years ago, and last winter, we wanted to open the rink, but the weather did not cooperate,” Maclean explained.
“My business partner and I took part in a brew bonspiel last year at Buchanan’s Jugs Club, which inspired us to try and bring it here. We recently finished renovating and had lots of leftover materials, so we figured we would give the curling rink a go.”
If the weather permits, everyone is invited to enjoy the curling rink on the rooftop patio at Interlake Brewing Co. on weekends from 2 to 4 p.m. The patio has been winterized to create a fun seasonal experience for guests.
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The building team thought of everything to ensure your comfort outdoors. They have built wind blocks, heaters, bathrooms, blankets, and benches to help you stay warm. They have also opened their Ice Bar, which features unique mocktails and warm beverages to keep your energy high when you curl with your friends and family.
“We have bar tenders serving beers, wines, spirits, coffee, and hot chocolate. We have even started to make ‘ice shots’ by making shot glasses out of ice.”
They are even considering making specialty cocktails uniquely for the ice bar.
Interlake Brewing Co. has everything you need when it comes to a game of rooftop curling. They have made their own curling rocks out of milk jugs, and no brooms are required for their family-friendly curling game.
“You just need to show up and dress appropriately for the weather,” added Maclean. “We encourage everyone of all ages and abilities to come out; you don’t have to be a curler to have fun.”
Once warmer weather returns, Maclean plans to host bonspiels and other more formal curling events, hoping to extend the rink’s hours as interest grows. With the Gimli Ice Festival approaching, he looks forward to seeing a lot of activity on the rink.
“It is a fun reason to get outside and spend together. Creating community is something we strive for as a business.”
Interlake Brewing Co.’s curling rink is open Saturdays and Sundays from 2-4 p.m. at 72 1 Ave in Gimli. Hours are subject to change and are based on current weather conditions. You can find updates to the rink’s operating hours on their Facebook page, Interlake Brewing Co.
