Published December 30, 2024

MetroParks Ice Rink hosts new programs, offers discounts for those who use SNAP/EBT

Offering fun outdoor experiences for skaters of all ages, the MetroParks Ice Rink will host a variety of programs and events through Feb. 28 at RiverScape MetroPark, 237. E. Monument Ave.

Admission is $7 daily, and visitors can rent ice skates for $3. Children 3 years old and under are free with a paying adult. There is no charge for those who are not skating.

Thanks to the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation and its Access to Nature Financial Assistance program, reduced admission is available for those who use SNAP/EBT benefits. Discounts have increased from 50% to 75%, which is $1.75 for admission and $.75 for skate rentals. Customers just need to present their SNAP/EBT card to receive the discount.

“The MetroParks Ice Rink is a destination to have fun with loved ones and friends, of course, but it’s also a great way to spend time being active outdoors,” said RiverScape manager MyKaelah Mercer. “We understand that folks tend to head indoors during the winter, which can be a challenge for people’s physical and mental health, so removing as many barriers as we can so people can enjoy all the benefits of being outdoors is important for us.”

Programs and events are included with regular admission.

Beginning in January, Family Skate Days are Sundays, from 1 to 5 p.m. These special skate days feature kid-friendly music, in addition to hands-on games and activities in the heated comfort tent. Also included with regular admission are themed skate nights, which are every Friday from 7 to 10 p.m. and feature a variety of music and chances to win prizes. Dates are:

The MetroParks Ice Rink will also open for extended hours on holidays throughout January and February, including:

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Additionally, the MetroParks Ice Rink will offer special Galentine’s Day and Sweetheart Skate deals, such as:

  • Thursday, Feb. 13: Galentine’s Day Skate – Bring a bestie and enjoy 50% off admission and skate rentals.
  • Friday, Feb. 14 through Sunday, Feb. 16 Sweetheart Skate – Enjoy two admissions, skate rentals, cups of cocoa and a box of Winans Chocolates for $20. Special hours apply; while supplies last. There will be regular scheduled music during Family Day Skate on Sunday, Feb. 16.

In addition to special skating days and holiday hours, the MetroParks Ice Rink is open daily; however, hours of operation vary. Visit metroparks.org/icerink for daily hours and a complete schedule of activities.

Additional offerings and amenities

Visitors can stay warm under the MSD Warming Zone. There is also a comfort tent available adjacent to the rink that provides skaters with a warm place to take a break from the winter weather.

Food and beverages will be available at the RiverScape Café. Alcoholic beverages – including a variety of cozy cocktails, beer, and wine – also will be available at the RiverScape Café for customers 21 and older.

Because RiverScape MetroPark is included in the Downtown Dayton Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) footprint, people walking in the downtown area are welcome to visit the park with their beverages within the DORA boundary. Learn more about DORA and participating businesses – including RiverScape MetroPark – at www.downtowndayton.org/dora.

Skating lessons for children, teens and adults are held at the rink throughout the season and cover basic skills that provide the confidence skaters need to feel comfortable on the ice. The Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation’s Access to Nature financial assistance program also is available to cover a portion of the cost of skating lessons for qualifying families in Montgomery County. Learn more and apply at metroparks.org/access.

MetroParks Money

MetroParks Money is an e-gift card program offered by Five Rivers MetroParks that gives you the flexibility to explore MetroParks’ outdoor experiences, including the MetroParks Ice Rink.

MetroParks Money allows you to support Five Rivers MetroParks and your favorite small businesses at the 2nd Street Market that provide jobs, tax dollars, contributions to our schools and non-profits, as well as the character that makes Dayton unique. Purchase MetroParks Money at metroparks.org/money.

The MetroParks Ice Rink is sponsored by MSD, USI Insurance Services, Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio, WKEF/FOX45/Dayton 24/7 Now and WINANS Coffee + Chocolate. For ice rink hours of operation and more information, visit metroparks.org/icerink.

 

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