Rodeo Rink

Thanks to the dedication of Eagle County, the Vail Mountaineer Hockey Club (VMHC), and the Vail Recreation District (VRD) and all of the ice user groups. While multiple options were explored across the valley, the Rodeo Arena stands out as the most suitable and cost-effective path forward to ensure uninterrupted ice access for the 2025–2026 season and beyond.

This effort is about far more than replacing a sheet of ice. It’s about protecting opportunity, preserving momentum, and ensuring access for more than 1,500 local skaters—including youth hockey players, figure skaters, adult league participants, and public skating families.

In response to strong community support and long-term needs, we’ve made a strategic shift: instead of renting a temporary structure, we are now pursuing the purchase of a semi-permanent tent. This decision improves reliability, enhances the experience for skaters and spectators, and provides an asset that can be reused, resold, or relocated to meet future community ice needs.

As a result, our total fundraising goal increased to $925,000—covering the purchase of the tent, portable ice mats, dasher boards, Zamboni, and critical infrastructure to sustain the Rodeo Rink for years to come. We're proud to share that $712,000 has already been committed, bringing us within reach of the finish line. Thanks to incredible support from the Town of Vail, who has committed $456,000 to help us purchase a semi-permanent tent for the Rodeo Rink, which includes a $156,000 grant and a $300,000 reimbursement grant, which with VMHC’s board approval (forthcoming) will be repaid over time.

With this support, we now have just $213,000 left to raise to fully fund the project, including the tent downpayment and first-year costs. To help us close the gap, we’re thrilled to announce a new $25,000 matching challenge from Merv and Laine Lapin—doubling the impact of every gift starting today!

The Rodeo Arena offers key infrastructure—restrooms, lighting, storage, and spectator space—that reduces setup costs and ensures a smooth, efficient operation. The site is ready, the plan is in place, and the partners are aligned.

This is more than an ice rink. It’s a community-driven investment in youth development, seasonal recreation, and equitable access to ice sports. VRD is contributing essential equipment and operational support, while Eagle County is providing the venue and considering additional support for infrastructure, utilities, and site improvements. But we need your help to close the gap.

We must raise $213,000 to complete the campaign and place equipment orders in time for an on-schedule opening by fall 2025. Without the Rodeo Rink, hundreds of local skaters will be left without access, and our community will lose a vital winter gathering space.

Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen. By donating today, you're not just funding infrastructure—you’re investing in childhood memories, community connection, and local talent. If every ice user gave $500 or more, we would close the gap for this season—and secure ice access for years to come.

Thank you for standing with us. Let’s raise the roof—together.

Get Involved: 3 Ways to Help 

 Join Us for The Rodeo Rink Wine & Spirits Tasting brought to you by Avon Liquor

Wednesday, August 13 | Eagle-Vail Pavilion | 5:30 PM

Calling all adult league players and parents - this festive night of wine, cocktails, and community in support of the Rodeo Rink is all about you! Come together with your team and support the Rodeo Rink. Tickets include tastings of various wines, spirits and brews, live music, and food stations brought to you by local restaurants. A portion of all wine and spirits orders made through Avon Liquor (mention the Rodeo Rink) between August 13 and 27 will benefit the Rodeo Rink. 

Event Tickets are $50/each 

View Invitation

Please reach out if you would like to volunteer during the event or to donate to the cork pull. 

 Adopt a Duck in the Vail Rotary Duck Race

Now through Labor Day, select Rodeo Rink as your beneficiary and 75% of your duck purchase will support our campaign. Purchase your duck here. Or please contact Katie Santambrogio to volunteer to sell Rotary Ducks to benefit the Rodeo Rink. 

Let’s meet the match, rally the valley, and build something lasting. We are in the homestretch, but we NEED the full ice community to make it happen. 

Donate or learn more at: https://givebutter.com/RodeoRink



Thank you for being a part of this exciting moment for the valley’s ice community!