Free Skate Rentals at Slice of Ice to Celebrate Season Opening, Dec. 15, from 4-6 p.m.

MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele announced today that, after a warm November, the Parks Department will kick off the ice-skating season at Slice of Ice in Red Arrow Park, Dec. 15, with free skate rentals from 4-6 p.m. The refrigerated rink is located downtown at 920 N. Water St.

Officials from Milwaukee County and from WaterStone Bank, the event’s presenting sponsor, will offer opening remarks before skaters take the ice.

“Thanks to the continued generosity of our partners at WaterStone Bank, Pepsi, Starbucks, and The Ability Center, families who may not have otherwise been able to come out to skate can enjoy Slice of Ice—our own Rockefeller Center,” Abele said.

Polar Pals, the toddler-sized plastic skating supports, as well as sledges, the ice sleds for people with mobility disabilities, will be available for free during the event. Sledges must be reserved by Dec. 14 by calling 414-289-8791. Event-goers will also enjoy free samples of cold beverages and hot chocolate, courtesy of Pepsi and Starbucks, while supplies last.

“We’re encouraging the whole family to get outside and get active,” said Guy Smith, Interim Parks Director. “No matter what the weather, it’ll be a great day to skate!”

Comfortably accommodating 100 skaters at a time, the 128-by-95-foot oval is open through March if the weather allows. The rink is bordered by a railing, so even the skaters with weak ankles can come out to circle the ice. At the adjacent warming house, patrons may rent skates and buy snacks.

Opening weekend, rink hours are Friday until 11 p.m.; Saturday, from 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; and Sunday, from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. The complete season schedule and school field trip information are posted on the website.

Throughout the season, skate rentals will be available in the warming house for $7 per pair for ages 17 and under or $8 per pair for adults. Skating is free to patrons who bring their own skates. Polar Pals will be available for a $1 rental fee and $5 refundable deposit or photo ID. Sledge rental is free upon request, with 24-hour notice required.

ADA accommodation requests for the opening should be filed with the Milwaukee County Office for Persons with Disabilities, at 414-278-3932 (voice) or 414-278-3937 (TTY).

For more information, call 414-289-8791 or visit countyparks.com and search “Slice of Ice.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.