UPDATE: The city of Santa Clarita launched the holiday season in an electrifying way on December 5, 2025, with the fifth annual tree lighting ceremony at The Cube Ice and Entertainment Center. Mayor Bill Miranda made a dramatic entrance by using a hockey stick to launch a glowing puck into the goal, triggering the illumination of a stunning Christmas tree at the center of the rink.
With a crowd eagerly counting down, the puck quickly glided across the ice, creating a festive atmosphere that marked the official start of the holiday festivities. Miranda expressed his surprise at the lights being turned off but celebrated the success of the moment, stating, “I didn’t think they would turn off the lights!”
The event was not only a visual spectacle but also a celebration of the community’s efforts to save The Cube, which faced permanent closure in March 2020. Thanks to the determination of local figure skaters, hockey players, and residents, the city purchased the 93,000-square-foot facility for $14.95 million, recognizing its significance as the second most utilized venue in the valley.
“It’s a full house here today, and it tells us how critical it was for us to save the ice station that was here and turn it into The Cube,” Miranda highlighted, noting that the facility serves a wide range of organizations, including the UCLA Men’s Hockey Team and SNAP Sports, which provides adaptive sports programs.
The tree lighting ceremony featured special guests, including the Los Angeles Kings mascot Bailey the Lion, and former NHL player Daryl Evans, who served as master of ceremonies. Attendees were treated to an excerpt from the upcoming Holiday Ice Skating Show, titled “A Nutcracker Fantasy,” set to premiere at The Cube on Friday at 7 p.m. with additional shows on Saturday at 12 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Councilwoman Marsha McLean reflected on the impact of The Cube, stating, “I’ve met people from all over the San Fernando Valley who come up to us and thank us for having this for their kids because it was going to close down before we took it over.”
As families enjoyed ice skating, with some wobbling and others gliding gracefully, Miranda expressed gratitude to the staff and volunteers who made the event possible. The community’s spirit of togetherness shone brightly as they celebrated their cherished landmark.
Looking ahead, officials plan to enhance The Cube further, with a Zamboni upgrade already underway. Future endeavors may include installing bleachers and transforming the space into a multipurpose facility, though plans are still in the early stages.
For now, the vibrant atmosphere at The Cube serves as a reminder of the community’s resilience and commitment to preserving a vital recreational space. This year’s tree lighting ceremony is not just a celebration of the holiday season but a testament to the bond among residents in the Santa Clarita Valley.
Stay tuned for more updates and join the festivities at The Cube this holiday season!
