Cambridge, ON — The City of Cambridge will celebrate the grand reopening of the newly renovated Preston Memorial Auditorium on Saturday, September 27, inviting the public to see firsthand the revitalized facility that city officials say will serve as a new hub of community activity.
The all-day celebration will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours, family-friendly programming, and the home opener for the Cambridge Rivulettes hockey team. The event is free to attend, with festivities scheduled from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
A Landmark Reimagined
Preston Memorial Auditorium, a fixture of Cambridge’s sporting and cultural landscape, has undergone a significant two-year renovation and expansion. The $ project, launched in the fall of 2023, added a new NHL-size ice pad, expanded seating, modernized changerooms and washrooms, multipurpose space, and office facilities.
Upgrades also included improvements to the original ice pad, resurfacing room, and other amenities. City officials said the work was designed to enhance both the spectator and player experience, while preserving the heritage value of a building that has long been central to local life.
“This modernized space is set to become a hub of activity in the city and reflects our commitment to preserving our heritage and enhancing spaces for future generations to enjoy,” said Mayor Jan Liggett. “This is especially meaningful for the Cambridge Rivulettes, who finally have a home arena built with them in mind. It’s been a long time coming, but together we’ve made it a reality. I, along with Council, look forward to welcoming the community back into this revitalized facility and would like to congratulate the project team on a job well done.”
A Day of Community Celebration
To mark the reopening, the city is planning a full day of events designed to draw in families, sports fans, and residents of all ages. Visitors can expect activities including face painting, inflatables, games for children, and food trucks. Local sports organizations will also be on site to showcase their programming and connect with potential new members.
The highlight of the day will be the Cambridge Rivulettes’ home opener, offering the community a chance to cheer on the team in their redesigned home arena.
Event details include:
-
Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
-
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
-
Location: Preston Memorial Auditorium, 1458 Hamilton Street, Cambridge
-
Admission: Free
-
Parking: Limited on-site; residents are encouraged to walk, bike, or use Grand River Transit.
Strategic Investment in Wellbeing
City officials framed the project as part of Cambridge’s broader Cambridge Connected strategic plan, which prioritizes community wellbeing by creating spaces where residents can gather, participate, and thrive.
The modernized auditorium is expected to support both recreational and competitive sports, as well as provide space for cultural and community events. Officials said the investment reflects a growing recognition that community infrastructure must evolve to meet diverse needs.
Construction began in late 2023 and spanned approximately two years, with city leaders crediting the successful completion to the efforts of contractors, city staff, and sponsors.
Community and Corporate Support
The project has benefited from substantial support from the private sector. Naming sponsors Ball Construction and Greybrook Realty Partners contributed to the renovation, while event sponsors RBC, Cambridge Toyota, and the Explore Waterloo Region Sport Hosting Office have made the reopening festivities possible.
The city is also seeking continued community involvement through its Play it Forward campaign, which invites donations to support the revitalization and ensure the auditorium remains a vibrant space for years to come.
Looking Ahead
Officials said the upgraded facility is expected to drive both social and economic benefits for Cambridge. By hosting local sports, community events, and regional tournaments, the city hopes to attract visitors, boost local businesses, and provide opportunities for residents to stay engaged and active.
The Rivulettes, in particular, are seen as central to the future of the auditorium. With a dedicated home ice surface built with them in mind, the team now has a venue aligned with its growth and competitive aspirations.
City leaders say the reopening is not only a celebration of infrastructure investment but also of community spirit. “Together we’ve made it a reality,” said Liggett, underscoring the collective effort behind the transformation.
More information on the Preston Memorial Auditorium grand opening is available at cambridge.ca/PrestonAud. Residents and organizations interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact [email protected].
