UPDATE: The city of Santa Clarita kicked off the holiday season in a spectacular fashion during the fifth annual tree lighting ceremony at The Cube Ice and Entertainment Center on December 5, 2025. Mayor Bill Miranda took center stage, wielding a hockey stick to launch a glowing puck that illuminated a massive Christmas tree, delighting a packed crowd of families and community members.
The exhilarating countdown began as the lights dimmed, and the crowd shouted, “3… 2… 1!” The glowing puck swiftly glided across the ice and struck the goal, triggering a dazzling display of lights that marked the official start of the holiday festivities at The Cube. “I didn’t think they would turn off the lights!” Miranda exclaimed, relieved and excited that the moment was a success on the first attempt.
This year’s ceremony was not just a celebration of the holiday season but also a significant milestone for The Cube, which has become a vital hub for the Santa Clarita Valley since the city purchased it for $14.95 million in 2020. Originally set to close permanently, local efforts to “Save the Rink” led to its acquisition, and it has since flourished into a community treasure.
“It’s a full house here today, and it tells us how critical it was for us to save the ice station and turn it into The Cube,” Miranda noted. With programs catering to all ages, The Cube now hosts the UCLA Men’s Hockey Team, West Ranch Hockey Club, and SNAP Sports, a nonprofit providing adaptive sports for individuals with special needs.
During the ceremony, special guests included Bailey the Lion, the mascot of the Los Angeles Kings, and Daryl Evans, a former NHL player, who served as the master of ceremonies. The event also featured a sneak peek of the upcoming Holiday Ice Skating Show titled “A Nutcracker Fantasy,” set to premiere at The Cube with shows throughout the weekend.
The community’s excitement was palpable, as families laced up skates for a night of ice skating, circling the beautifully lit tree. Many attendees, including children who wobbled on the ice for the first time, contributed to the festive atmosphere. Miranda expressed gratitude to the staff and volunteers who made the event possible, emphasizing the importance of community support.
Looking ahead, city officials are already planning upgrades to enhance The Cube’s facilities, including a much-anticipated Zamboni upgrade and the installation of bleachers. Councilwoman Marsha McLean reiterated the facility’s role in the community, stating, “We’ve made it a destination.” She highlighted the positive feedback from families who had previously feared losing access to such an essential resource.
As Santa Clarita celebrates this joyous occasion, the city reflects on the importance of The Cube as a cultural and recreational asset for the community. The holiday season is officially underway, and residents are encouraged to enjoy the festivities while supporting local talent on the ice.
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming events at The Cube, as this cherished venue continues to evolve and serve the needs of the Santa Clarita community.
