A figure skater graces the ice in downtown Sacramento. Photo courtesy of the Downtown Sacramento Partnership

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Downtown Sacramento's favorite winter tradition is back! Presented by Dignity Health, the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink returned Nov. 4 in Ali Youssefi Square at 7th and K streets. The 34th season was scheduled to kick off with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m., bringing together local leaders, community members and partners to celebrate the rink's return. The rink was expected to open to the public at 2 p.m.

Located in the heart of downtown, the rink puts visitors within easy reach of Sacramento's seasonal attractions, including the Theatre of Lights show and holiday tree in Old Sacramento Waterfront and winter performances at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center. Just steps from Golden 1 Center, DOCO, and a wide variety of shops and restaurants, it's an ideal stop for a full day or evening of holiday festivities.

The Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink will operate Tuesdays through Sundays from Nov. 4 through Jan. 18, offering locals and visitors plenty of opportunities to hit the ice throughout the holiday season. Groups of 10 or more can book online for dedicated two-hour skating sessions, while those planning a private celebration can reserve the entire rink by calling 916-442-8575. New this season, the rink will offer figure and hockey skating lessons.

"The Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink is a place for everyone, from first-time skaters to longtime visitors," said Michael Ault, executive director at the Downtown Sacramento Partnership. "We're excited to introduce figure and hockey skating lessons this season and offer even more opportunities for skaters of all ages and experience levels to learn new skills, build confidence, and make lasting memories on the ice."

Two children enjoy skating at the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink. Photo courtesy of the Downtown Sacramento Partnership

Skaters can also look forward to themed events and community activations throughout the season.

Veterans and active military members skate free from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Nov. 11 and all season with a valid military ID.

Visitors can skate with superheroes and princesses Nov. 14, which is Princess and Superhero Day from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Skaters can have their face painted and skate with guests dressed as Elsa, Anna, Incredible Hulk, Spiderman and perhaps others. Skaters are urged to dress as their favorite princess or superhero.

Donation week at the rink is Nov. 16 to Nov. 29, when guests can get $5 off admission when they donate an item to the River City Food Bank.

Figure skating lessons begin Nov. 17, with the Sacramento State figure skating team. Sunday sessions begin at 9:15 a.m. and Tuesday sessions begin at 1:15 p.m. Skaters must arrive at 9 a.m. Sundays and 1 p.m. Tuesdays.

Cost of the first session is $30 and includes rink access when public skating begins. Skaters may receive instructions based on age and skill level.

And thanks to the A’s, everyone can skate for free from 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 22. Stomper might visit the rink.

General admission to the rink is $15 while children 6 years old and younger can skate for $8. The prices include skate rental. The rink is open 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, weather permitting.

Call 916-743-4669 to see whether the rink is open when the weather is bad. 

This report contains information provided by a Downtown Sacramento Partnership news release.