It may not seem like it now with the area’s warm weather, but yes, winter is coming — and with the season comes holiday traditions like ice skating.
Several holiday-themed ice rinks will begin popping up all over the area soon, offering ice time to both beginning and experienced skaters as well as holiday cheer in the form of special events and themed nights.
So strap on your skates, or get ready to rent some, because here is a list of some of the holiday ice rinks coming to the area.
The ice rink at Irvine Spectrum Center opens for the season on Nov. 1. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)
Irvine Spectrum Center
When: Opens Nov. 1
Where: 670 Spectrum Center Drive, Irvine
Information: 714-742-0160 or irvinespectrumcenter.com/entertainment/attractions/ice-rink
There will be plenty of events planned throughout the winter at this ice rink, including live DJs and themed nights that include ugly sweater, Hawaiian shirt and Anaheim Ducks nights, where people can show their support for the local hockey team.
The holiday ice rink returns to Santa Monica Nov. 8. (Photo by Bryan Allen)
Ice at Santa Monica
When: Nov. 8-Jan. 20
Where: 1324 Fifth St., Santa Monica
Information: iceatsantamonica.com
This chilly annual tradition returns to the seaside city as the corner of Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue is transformed into a winter wonderland that will include holiday entertainment plus arts and crafts activities. There will be themed events, DJ nights and even a Taylor Swift-themed night and a family-friendly New Year’s Eve countdown. And there’s a mini-rink attached just for the kids too.
The Pershing Square Ice Rink opens Nov. 21. (Photo by Red Apple Photography)
Pershing Square Holiday Ice Rink
When: Nov. 21-Jan. 12
Where: 532 S. Olive St., Los Angeles
Information: holidayicerinkdowntownla.com
You’re not going to see snow capped mountains when you look up while skating at Pershing Square. Instead you’ll see the downtown Los Angeles skyline while skating to weekly DJ Spotlight Nights. And if you have your eyes on becoming a winter Olympic athlete, there will be curling lessons on select nights.
WinterFest OC
When: Select dates from Nov. 22-Jan. 5
Where: OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Information: winterfestoc.com
This is a huge winter festival that includes pretty much everything winter can throw at you, which obviously includes ice skating. But it isn’t a traditional rink but more of an ice trail where people can glide through as they check out a chilly paradise.
Holidays on the Hill
When: Nov. 30-Jan. 5
Where: 555 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City
Information: https://www.experiencethehill.com/holidaysonthehill
This rink is pretty much aimed at everyone. For the kids there’s Santa at his workshop, for the adults there will be themed cocktails at the Jingle Bell Tavern, and for the hungry there will be an all-you- can-eat Seafood & Prime Rib buffet open daily. And of course, everyone will get to skate during themed nights.
LA Kings Holiday Ice
When: Nov. 29-Jan. 10
Where: L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles
Information: lalive.com/la-kings-holiday-ice-la-live
With a giant holiday tree right in the middle, this is one of the most picturesque rinks around. And since it’s surrounded by the many restaurants at the venue, there is usually a skate and dining deal offered during the season.
Temecula On Ice
When: Dec. 12-Jan. 5
Where: 41902 Main St., Temecula
Information: https://temeculaca.gov/1120/Temecula-On-Ice
The city’s annual ice rink returns with music playing from its very own radio station, plus Bobby skating for young kids and a New Year’s Eve skate night.
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