COLD LAKE - People laced up for a night of retro fun and community connection as Roller Haus Roller Skating hosted its first official roller-skating night at the Energy Centre on June 7.
With upbeat music, glowing lights, and laughter echoing off the walls, skaters of all ages hit the rink, some for the first time in years. The cost to attend was a $5 donation and an optional $5 skate rental.
The event, which packed a nostalgic punch, was the result of a grassroots collaboration led by Lynn Folkard, Director of Roller Haus, and supported by the Lakeland Ladykillers roller derby team.
“It was Lynn's passion project, and she . . . got in contact with the Lakeland Lady Killers and we made it happen,” said Kristy Poirier, better known as ‘Brass Brawls’ from the Ladykillers.
Folkard admits the idea was born out of a love for skating and a touch of boredom. “It's been a collaborative thing and I just - I'm bored and I love to roller skate,” she said with a laugh.
The idea took shape in November 2024 and came to life after months of planning and overcoming venue challenges.
The Lakeland Ladykillers stepped up to sponsor the debut night.
“We literally just picked days that the Energy Centre could have us and we booked it,” said Poirier.
The plan doesn’t stop here. “This is just a start. This is the first time, and then we've got one on July 19 here at the Energy Centre and then we're going to have subsequent dates at the AgriPlex as well,” said Folkard.
Folkard says the turnout was promising and the vibe even better.
“I feel like fantastic honestly . . . And lots of smiles all around the rink.” While there’s hope for disco balls and flashier lights in the future, “they created a nice ambience here with the lighting.”
More than just a fun night out, the roller-skating event brought together community members of all ages.
“It just brings family and friends of all ages together. Because it's nostalgic and it's fitness . . . If you don't know anyone in Cold Lake, you can come and you can meet people,” added Folkard.
And no one is left out - newbies and pros alike are welcome.
“It's like that calming ground, everybody's here to roll and escape, and it's just like, no matter what level you're at, it doesn't matter,” she said.
A Learn to Skate program for adults is already happening at the AgriPlex, and the Ladykillers plan to offer another six-week session in the fall.
