Coliseum Sun Life Financial

Imagine a place where the ice literally melts from the fans' emotions and the walls preserve the history of great sporting achievements. We are talking about the famous arena known as the Rimouski Colisée (officially known as Colisée Financière Sun Life). This multi-purpose indoor stadium, located in the heart of the city of Rimouski, has become a true symbol of sporting passion in Canada.

Built in 1966 and undergoing major modernization in 2008, this complex can now accommodate over 4,800 spectators. It serves as the home ice for the local hockey pride — the Rimouski Océanic team. Thanks to its modern infrastructure and excellent ice quality, the arena is considered one of the best in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

But it's not just a rink. It is a versatile space where life hums year-round. In addition to exciting ice battles, it hosts large-scale concerts, exhibitions, and community events, making the Colisée a key point on the region's cultural map.

To check the event schedule or inquire about ice rentals, you can contact the facility administration directly. The Colisée is conveniently located in a central part of the city, making it accessible to all visitors.

The main magnet for any visitor here is, undoubtedly, Canadian hockey. Being in the stands during a Rimouski Océanic home game means feeling the incredible energy of the local fans. The dynamics of the game, the roar of the crowd, and the chance to see future NHL stars create an unforgettable impression that every tourist should experience.

From July to April, the Rimouski Colisée is actively used for public skating sessions. You can rent skates and step onto the same professional ice where champions train. Amateur matches and school programs are frequently held here, so the ice is rarely empty. It’s a great place for family fun, with a friendly and active atmosphere.

During the summer months or on days between sporting events, the arena transforms into a venue for cultural events. Thanks to the excellent acoustics noted by many visitors, musical shows and concerts are often held here. Inside the complex, you’ll also find concession stands offering traditional Canadian snacks and souvenir shops where you can pick up local team merchandise.

Finding this sports complex is easy, as it is located practically in the central part of the city at 111 2e Rue O. If you are already downtown, a pleasant walk to the arena will take no more than 10–15 minutes. For those who prefer extra comfort, local taxi services are always available.

For travelers arriving from other regions, such as Quebec City or Montreal, it is most convenient to reach the city by car via Highway 20 — the drive takes about four hours and offers scenic views. There is ample parking right next to the Colisée, so finding a spot for your car shouldn't be an issue.

The city also has a well-developed public transport network, with local buses stopping in the immediate vicinity of the arena. If you are arriving by air, the nearest Rimouski Airport (YXX) is only 15 kilometers from the sports facility, allowing for a quick transfer by shuttle or rental car.

The history of this place began in 1966, when the building was officially opened as the Colisée de Rimouski. Since then, it has become a true stronghold for local winter sports fans and the home of the famous Rimouski Océanic youth hockey team.

A major milestone for the arena was 2008, when a large-scale renovation and expansion of the complex was carried out. These updates not only improved the internal infrastructure but also increased the seating capacity, bringing the facility up to modern international standards.

Thanks to the renovation, in 2009, the Colisée had the honor of hosting the Memorial Cup — the most prestigious national junior hockey championship in Canada. This event firmly established the arena's status as one of the most important sports facilities in the province of Quebec.

The current name, Colisée Financière Sun Life, resulted from a partnership with a major financial company. This collaboration helped ensure the steady development of the venue, which remains the primary center of attraction for athletes and fans from across the region today.

When planning your visit to the Rimouski Colisée, consider the type of event you are attending. If you are going to a Rimouski Océanic hockey game, you should set aside about 2.5–3 hours. This is enough time to pass through security without rushing, find your seats, enjoy the game, and soak up the atmosphere during the intermissions.

For those planning a public skating session or attending a short cultural event, 1.5–2 hours is usually sufficient. If you just want to see the building from the outside and peek into the lobby to appreciate the scale of the structure, 30–40 minutes during a city walk will be enough.

The Colisée's operating hours depend directly on the sports match schedule and seasonal events. Generally, the building is open to the public during hockey games, practices, or public skating sessions, which most often take place from July to April.

Since there are no fixed visiting hours for "walk-in" tourists, we highly recommend checking the current schedule on the official city portal or the hockey team's website before your visit. This way, you can know exactly when the ice is open to the public or when the next major event begins.

A visit to the arena can easily be combined with a stroll through the city's interesting spots. The surrounding area is rich in both cultural landmarks and cozy establishments where you can discuss the match over a cup of coffee or a glass of craft beer.