UPDATE: The holiday season kicked off with a spectacular tree lighting ceremony at The Cube Ice and Entertainment Center in Santa Clarita on December 5, 2025. Mayor Bill Miranda led a crowd of excited families in a countdown, culminating in a glowing puck lighting up a massive Christmas tree at the center of the rink.
The festive atmosphere was electric as attendees from all ages gathered to celebrate this fifth annual event. The ceremony not only marked the beginning of the holiday season but also highlighted the community’s effort to save The Cube, a vital hub for ice sports and entertainment.
“It’s a full house here today, and it tells us how critical it was for us to save the ice station,” said Miranda, reflecting on the rink’s journey after its potential closure in 2020. The city purchased the facility for $14.95 million after a study showed its importance to the community, quickly becoming a beloved venue for sports and events.
The Cube is home to the UCLA Men’s Hockey Team, the West Ranch Hockey Club, and SNAP Sports, which offers adaptive sports programs. The facility has hosted numerous regional tournaments, making it a destination for ice sports enthusiasts from across the West Coast.
The ceremony featured special guests, including the Los Angeles Kings’ mascot Bailey the Lion and former NHL player Daryl Evans, who served as the master of ceremonies. A highlight of the event was a preview of the upcoming Holiday Ice Skating Show, “A Nutcracker Fantasy,” set to premiere at The Cube with multiple showings over the weekend.
Mayor Miranda expressed pride in the community’s commitment to The Cube, stating,
“I’m just very proud of the fact that we decided that we were going to purchase it for our community.”
Councilwoman Marsha McLean echoed these sentiments, noting the rink’s impact on local families and its crucial role in community activities.
Families laced up their skates for a chance to glide across the ice, with many experiencing the thrill for the first time. The event fostered a sense of unity and joy as attendees circled the beautifully decorated tree, sharing smiles and laughter.
As the city looks forward, officials plan several enhancements to The Cube, including upgrades to the Zamboni and potential multipurpose facility transformations. These improvements aim to further solidify The Cube’s status as a community cornerstone.
The successful tree lighting ceremony is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Santa Clarita community, marking a joyous start to the holiday season.
Stay tuned for more updates on future events and developments at The Cube Ice and Entertainment Center.
