Published November 17, 2023
This week: MetroParks Ice Rink Opens Nov. 24
MetroParks Ice Rink Opens November 24
The holidays are right around the corner – which means it is time for ice skating! After celebrating Turkey Day, join in on a beloved tradition celebrated by many with a visit to the region’s largest outdoor skating rink. Skate along the Great Miami River to some holiday music, snag a delicious hot cocoa from the Café, and create some everlasting memories with friends and family. For those who may be a little wobbly on the ice or would like some extra support (adults and kids alike!), we have you covered with our nifty skate helpers, which are first come, first serve. The ice rink officially opens Friday, Nov. 24 at 11 a.m. and will be open daily (weather permitting) through March 1, 2024, with the exception of Christmas Day. Full hours are available on MetroParks.org.
Admission is $7 with a skate rental fee of $3. Children under the age of 3 are admitted free with a paying adult. Thanks to the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation, those who use SNAP/EBT benefits can receive 50% off admission and skate rentals by showing their card upon purchasing admission.
The MetroParks Ice Rink is sponsored by PNC, MSD, media sponsor WKEF22/FOX45, Butler Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, USI Insurance Services, Ed Smith Flowers & Gifts and Winans Chocolates + Coffees.
Season Passes Now Available
Season passes to the MetroParks Ice Rink are now available for purchase online. Enjoy unlimited visits to the rink, plus, enjoy extra perks like food and hot cocoa discounts from the Cafe, free skate rentals, and express line privileges during peak hours. Group passes (for up to five people) and individual passes are available for purchase. Secure your passes online prior to opening day and receive 20% off or receive 15% off in-person during opening weekend. Physical passes will be available for pick-up at the rental office on your first visit.
What is a “Comfort Tent”?
It is important to have fun outdoors and be active during the winter, which is why we helped make skating at the ice rink a cozy experience. In 2019, we introduced our brand new heated and insulated Comfort Tent. Featuring comfortable family-style seating, festive lighting, and a cozy 70-degree temperature all season long! It is the perfect spot to warm up during your visit, or to sit and relax and with a hot cocoa – or for those 21 and up, enjoy a specialty alcoholic drink from the Cafe.
Be sure to visit the Comfort Tent during our Holiday Mini Market Nights on the first three Saturdays in December from 4 to 8 p.m. Skaters and park visitors can shop a rotation of 2nd Street Market vendors and help support local businesses this holiday season including Peace on Fifth, Netta’s Naturals, Catch Some Sun, Mohana Linx and more. Be sure to stay tuned to our Facebook page for updates, additional announcements and more.
Access to Ice Skating Lessons
Five Rivers MetroParks is committed to providing quality parks, programs, and services to all residents of Montgomery County, regardless of their ability to pay. Five Rivers MetroParks developed the Access to Nature financial assistance program in conjunction with the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation to provide residents up to a 75% discount based on financial need. Families can qualify for up to $500 per calendar year to help remove financial barriers of participating in programs, like ice-skating lessons, campsite rentals and shelter rentals. To qualify, families must live in Montgomery County and meet household income guidelines. To see if you qualify for assistance, you can apply online.
Broomball and Curling Leagues Return
For those looking for a speedier pace on the ice, we encourage checking out curling and broomball leagues that are offered here at Dayton’s Front Porch. Grab your own team or join another, regardless of your experience level. Leagues occur on various weeknight evenings beginning in January. Spectators are also welcome! To learn more or to register with one of these exciting curling and broomball leagues, you can connect with Curl Troy and the Dayton Broomball Association. Leagues are forming now, so be sure to snag your spot while you can!
If you aren’t ready to join a league just yet, the Dayton Broomball Association will be hosting a Try Broomball course on Sunday, Nov. 26, where participants will learn the basics of the sport right on the ice. Due to the nature of this hockey-like sport, this program is recommended for those 18 and older. Registration is available on MetroParks.org.
2nd Street Market
Our friends over at the 2nd Street Market’s hours are extending their hours to give you an extra day to shop before your holiday feast! Stop by the 2nd Street Market on Nov. 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., to come support your favorite local businesses. Grab last-minute recipe essentials, prepared foods, desserts, decor, gifts and more during their pre-Thanksgiving shopping day. Visit the 2nd Street Market page on MetroParks.org to view all upcoming events and winter programs.
