The Archives Block Party Itinerary

The Garden of the Provinces and Territories, or “Archives” as it’s known to local skateboarders (in Ottawa) is one of Canada’s oldest skateboard spots. Although It was never built specifically for skateboarding, it happens to feature many obstacles (ledges, stairs, smooth patches of ground) that skaters love. Despite the fact that usage of the park for skateboarding dates back to the 1980s, (if not earlier) it has not always been embraced by the park’s custodian - the National Capital Commission or “NCC”. Anti skateboarding infrastructure including poles and metal brackets have been installed over the years to deter the activity. Skaters have often removed them. In recent years, the NCC has changed its stance on skateboarding at Archives. In partnership with Birling skateboard shop and the Ottawa Skateboard Association, it has decided to tolerate skateboarding at the site, within certain areas. The NCC will be removing the majority of the anti skateboarding infrastructure and has even agreed to the installation of a granite “RDS” bench on the lower level of the park, specifically intended to be used for skateboarding. A second “RDS” bench has been installed alongside the first one last month. This represents a giant leap forward in the context of “skate urbanism” not only for the city of Ottawa but for Canada as a whole. Skate urbanism has been defined as “the active collaboration between skaters and their governments to incorporate skating into their local environment. This effort promotes shared usage of space and socialization within cities while strengthening the social threads of the local communities.” The NCC’s agreement to give “skate urbanism” a shot at Archives is admirably progressive and worth celebrating! Cheek out the full itinerary of the "Archives Block Party" below and help us make it the best event it can possibly be! Come out and join us! It's a big deal! Let us know if you have any questions about it at all.