As the holiday season approaches, Indianapolis transforms into a winter wonderland, packed with festive lights and holiday cheer. What better way to embrace the spirit of the season than by gliding across the ice at one of the city’s many ice skating rinks? Whether you are a seasoned skater or curious beginner, Indianapolis and surrounding areas offer various rink options to suit all ages and skill levels.
Located in the heart of Downtown Indianapolis, the Elevance Health Rink at Bicentennial Unity Plaza, adjacent to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, is a new destination for winter fun. This large ice rink offers plenty of space to twirl and glide while its picturesque backdrop of the Indianapolis skyline and surrounding cityscape adds a touch of magic to the winter experience.
Resident Pacers and Fever fan Dior Johnson has already had the pleasure of attending the Elevance Health Rink at Bicentennial Unity Plaza. “It was an amazing time,” Johnson said. “My daughter and I had a blast. It is beautiful when the sun goes down and the winter lights really hit the [plaza.] It’s just like the movies.”
The rink is open from Nov. 19 until Jan. 21, 2024. It features a variety of public skating sessions, as well as private lessons and special events. Patrons can rent skates if they do not own a pair.
For another serene skating experience, head to Holliday Park on the east side of Indianapolis. Nestled amidst the park’s tranquil surroundings, the Ice Rink at Holliday Park offers an enchanting atmosphere for families and couples. The rink is open from November 2023 until February 2024 (with a few potential dates in March 2024) and features public skating sessions, skate rentals and concessions.
“We’re excited to bring another year of thrills and chills to Marion County residents with the second season of the Ice Rink at Holliday Park this season,” Executive director of the Holliday Park Foundation Adam Barnes said. “We’ve cultivated new partnerships that provide new opportunities in nature across all ages in our community. We’re proud to enhance and showcase the holistic and unique Holliday Park experience and are happy to extend this tradition within the neighborhood and the Indy Parks system this holiday season.”
Whether you are a seasoned skater or a novice, you should remember a few things to ensure a pleasant ice skating experience. Firstly, it is crucial to dress warmly and layer your clothing to stay comfortable on the ice. Secondly, wear appropriate footwear that provides enough grip on the ice surface. If you do not have your own skates, you can rent them from most rinks at a nominal fee. Additionally, if you are new to skating, it is recommended that you take lessons offered by many rinks for adults and children of all ages. Finally, always be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye out for other skaters and avoid skating too fast to prevent any accidents.
In addition to the Elevance Health Rink and the Ice Rink at Holliday Park, Indianapolis boasts several other ice skating rinks worth checking out. These include:
- Indy Fuel Tank in Fishers
- Carmel Ice Skadium in Carmel
- Federal Hill Commons Ice Plaza in Noblesville
- Midwest Training & Ice Center in Carmel
With its variety of ice skating rinks and festive winter atmosphere, Indianapolis offers the opportunity to create unforgettable memories this holiday season. So, lace up your skates, grab a friend or family member and hit the ice for some wintertime fun!
Contact multi-media staff writer Noral Parham III at (317)-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Twitter @3Noral.For more news courtesy of the Indianapolis Recorder, click here.
