By Chris Bavender
An outdoor holiday ice skating rink will open at the Whitestown Municipal Complex Dec. 15. Whitestown Parks Director Nathan Messer was drawn to the idea after seeing a demo rink and display at this year’s State Parks Conference.
“With the uncertainty of Indiana weather, the ability to have an ice rink here in Whitestown really appealed to me,” Messer said.
The rink will be part of the town’s annual holiday celebration that features a visit with Santa Claus and the Santa Parade on Dec. 16. The event will feature hot cocoa, crafts and pictures with Santa.
“At 5 p.m. Santa leaves on the fire truck to prepare for the Santa Parade through our neighborhoods, which takes place from 6 to 9 p.m.,” Messer said. “Our Parks Department trailer will be decorated with a ‘Frozen’ theme for the parade.”
Messer believes the rink will draw people for a variety of reasons.
“From kids coming to learn to skate with their parents to couples coming out for a quiet evening together,” Messer said. “We are also offering several scheduled slots when children can come and skate with a police officer to give our younger residents the opportunity to interact with our public safety officers in a fun way.”
When it’s time to warm up, skaters can head to Game Day Coffee’s hot cocoa/coffee truck for hot chocolate, coffee, tea and specialty drinks from lattes to cappuccinos to help keep visitors warm.
Those who want to enjoy time on the rink will need to hurry. It’s only open through Dec. 20.
“Due to this being the first year for the event, we wanted to try it out first,” Messer said. “We will explore options based on the opening weekend and how this first-time event is received by the community.”
Ice rink hours and prices are:
- Dec. 15 – $10 / $2 skate rental 5 to 9 p.m.- All ages welcome – 9 p.m.-11 p.m.-adults only
- Dec. 16 – $10 / $2 skate rental 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. – All ages welcome – 9 -11 p.m. adults only
- Dec. 17 – $10 / $2 skate rental 4 to 9 p.m.
- Dec. 18, 19 and 20 – $10 includes skate rental – 4 to 9 p.m.
