UPDATE: The city of Santa Clarita kicked off the holiday season in style with its **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 across the rink, igniting the holiday spirit for a crowd of excited children and adults.
As the puck slid into the net, the lights illuminated a stunning **Christmas tree** at the rink’s center, marking a pivotal moment for the community. “I didn’t think they would turn off the lights!” Miranda exclaimed, visibly relieved as the event unfolded flawlessly on the first attempt.
The tree lighting ceremony was not just a visual spectacle; it celebrated **The Cube**, a cherished community hub that faced closure before being saved through local efforts. Originally slated to shut down in **March 2020**, The Cube was purchased by the city for **$14.95 million** after a study revealed it was the second most-used venue in the Santa Clarita Valley.
Mayor Miranda emphasized the facility’s importance, stating, “More people use The Cube than almost any other facility in the city.” Now, five years into city ownership, The Cube serves as a crucial recreational space for figure skaters, hockey players, and families alike.
The event was filled with special guests, including the **Los Angeles Kings’** mascot, Bailey the Lion, and former NHL player **Daryl Evans**, who served as the master of ceremonies. Attendees also enjoyed a sneak preview of the **Holiday Ice Skating Show** titled “A Nutcracker Fantasy,” which is set to premiere at The Cube with performances scheduled for **7 p.m.** on Friday and additional shows on Saturday at **12 p.m.** and **5 p.m.**
Councilwoman **Marsha McLean** reflected on the community’s resilience, saying, “I’ve met people from all over the San Fernando Valley who thank us for having this for their kids because it was going to close down before we took it over.”
The Cube is now home to various organizations, including the **UCLA Men’s Hockey Team**, the **West Ranch Hockey Club**, and **SNAP Sports**, a nonprofit that provides adaptive sports programs. The facility has also hosted regional tournaments, drawing competitors from across the West Coast.
Plans for The Cube’s future include significant upgrades, such as a new **Zamboni** and potential multipurpose facility enhancements. As the holiday season approaches, families filled the rink, lacing up skates and gliding around the towering Christmas tree, creating cherished memories.
Miranda concluded the evening by expressing gratitude to the staff and volunteers who made the event possible, further solidifying The Cube’s role as a beloved cornerstone of the Santa Clarita community.
Stay tuned for further updates on The Cube’s developments and holiday events that continue to bring the community together.
