Yes, you can go ice skating in Los Angeles. The technology to keep ice frozen even in 80-degree weather has led to the creation of outdoor ice skating rinks around the Los Angeles area, creating pseudo-winter fun for everyone. If you're a seasoned skater planning to join in the fun, remember that ice skating doesn't come naturally to Angelenos, so be prepared for lots of beginners of all ages stumbling around the ice.
Each ice rink has its own schedule, some starting as early as the beginning of November and running through February. And each rink has special features that draw in the crowds.
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Irvine Spectrum's Skating Under the Stars Ice Rink
With a long season overall, Irvine Spectrum's Ice Rink skating under the stars in Orange County, opens November 2, 2018, and runs through January 6, 2019. The rink is under a canopy next to the Ferris wheel at the Irvine Spectrum shopping center, and although it's not a very big space, there's plenty of room for skaters during each 75-minute skating session.
The rink is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas, but special events take place throughout the season including weekly "Themed Thursdays" that encourage guests to come in their Christmas pajamas, Santa's helpers' costumes, and New Yearsparkles. If you come dressed in the costume of the day, your skating is $5 off. VisitSkate Spectrumfor more information on ticketing, prices, and hours of operation.
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ICE at Santa Monica
While Santa Monica has tons ofthings to do, you won't want to miss ICE at Santa Monica,returning November 3, 2018, and running through January 21, 2019, with 8,000 square feet of real ice. ICE at Santa Monica is located at 1324 5th Street at the corner of 5th and Arizona, and there is also a second 400-square-foot rink for kids 8 and under nearby, both of which featurespecial activities throughout the season.
Lessons are also available for both children and adults through theRandy Gardner's School of Skating,so even if you're not too sure of your skating ability, there's plenty of opportunities to learn at this outdoor rink. Visit theDowntown Santa Monicawebsite for more information on tickets, class schedules, and special events.
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Holiday Ice Rink at Pershing Square
Holiday Ice Rink at Pershing Square, formerlyDowntown on Ice,is the original Los Angeles outdoor ice rink that started the fad. This 4,500-square-foot ice rink is set up on Pershing Square in front of the Biltmore Hotel, and special attractions include the Winter Holiday Festival, concerts, shows, and more.
The Holiday Ice Rink opensNovember 15, 2018, and runs through January 21, 2019. For a complete list of shows, ticket prices, and hours, visit the officialHoliday Ice Rink Downtown LA website, and if you're looking for other attractions to do in DowntownLos Angeles, check out our comprehensiveguide.
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LA Kings Holiday Ice Locations
With three locations in Los Angeles to choose from—LA Live in Downtown, The Pike Outlet in Long Beach, and the Westfield in Topanga—LA Kings Holiday Ice is a great destination for ice skating no matter which part of the Valley you're in.
Each rink also offersskating and hockey classes weekend mornings and Thursday afternoons. Check the officialLA Kings Holiday Icewebsite for special events, deals, ticketing information, and hours of operation; all locations are open from openNovember 10, 2018 toJanuary 6, 2019, seven days a week, including holidays.
For more information, you can also check out our comprehensiveL.A. Live Visitors Guideor explore more options in ourThings to Do in Downtown Los Angeleslist.
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The Rink in Downtown Burbank
TheRink in Downtown Burbankis returning this year from Thursday, December 13, 2018, through Sunday, January 6, 2019, offering guests a chance to experience the 4,100-square-foot rink located next to City Hall at 3rd Street and Orange Grove in Burbank, CA.
Themed music and entertainment will be scheduled throughout the four weeks the rink is open, and free parking is available at numerous structures in Downtown Burbank. Season passes are available. Visit The Rink official websitefor more information on special events, hours of operation, and ticketing costs.
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Winter Fest OC
Winter Fest OC at the Orange County Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa has moved the ice rink outdoors this year. In addition to outdoor ice skating, you'll find ice tubing, a snow play area for kids, holiday shows, fair rides, a nightly mini-parade,and tree lighting.
Winter Fest OC has half-price ticket days for residents of Orange County cities. Check thewebsiteto see which day is your City Day and to find more information relating to ticketing, hours of operation, and special events coming to the Fest this year. Dates for Winter Fest run from Dec 20, 2018, through Jan 6, 2019.