An iconic Calgary waterslide is replaced after more than 30 years | Daily Hive

An iconic Calgary waterslide is being replaced after 34 years

Village Square Leisure Centre/Facebook

An iconic Calgary waterslide is being replaced as part of a major renovation project on a northeast leisure centre.

If you’ve ever visited the pool at Village Square Leisure Centre, chances are you’ve taken a ride down the Thunder Run. Now, after more than three decades of operating, the beloved slide is coming to an end, but it’s not all bad news.

“As part of the upcoming repairs and upgrades at Village Square Leisure Centre, the City is planning to replace the existing Thunder Run slide with a new slide in the same general location,” the City of Calgary said when speaking with Daily Hive.

The slide was added in 1994, and the City says that replacing it is a more practical, long-term solution than continuing to repair the existing slide.

The City of Calgary

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If you’re looking to get one last ride down the slide, the leisure centre is set to close on Aug. 31, 2026.

“We encourage Calgarians who have fond memories of the slide, or who want to experience it before work begins, to visit the facility this summer.”

While there are limited details about the new slide replacing the Thunder Run, the City says the replacement will feature a fully enclosed design to help protect it from Calgary’s weather.

“The new slide is intended to preserve the experience people remember, while improving reliability for future users. The current slide has been affected by age and Calgary’s weather, including cold temperatures that can limit operation.”

Following renovations, Village Square Leisure Centre is expected to reopen by the end of 2027 with the new slide in place.

You can learn more about the project online.