Canada's top skating talent glide into Barrie for the annual Mariposa Octoberfest Competition

The Allandale Recreation Centre in Barrie will be bustling with activity this weekend as some of Canada's top skating talent participate in the annual Mariposa Octoberfest Competition.

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The tournament, no longer officially known as Octoberfest, is spearheaded by Skate Ontario and serves as a qualifier for provincial skaters to compete at sectionals.

"For the younger skaters, it's an experiential thing, getting their feet wet in the big environments and figuring out what it’s going to be like. They will be working for a little bit longer through the season to qualify for their provincials, which is in March," said Lise Buelow, who is on the skating competition's organizing committee.

For skater Aidan Armstrong, it's all about the experience. "I just really enjoy being on the ice and competing; it’s always nice. And skating is just a big passion, and I just love being at the rink."

The tournament runs this weekend at the rec centre on Bayview Drive in the city's south end. Due to roadwork in the area, Bayview Drive is open to southbound traffic only, with access available from Little Avenue.

Day passes are available at the door for $8. The complete schedule is available here.