There’s something magical about ice. Crisp air and spinning dancers whisk you into a carefree, timeless zone of family fun. And you don’t have to travel far to experience it: beginning with the 3 p.m. Grand Opening on Friday, Dec. 16, Alameda will have its own Little Ice Rink, where you’ll be dazzled by a performance lineup including professional skaters.
Thanks to the Perforce Software Foundation, skaters of all ages and skill levels can hit the temporary rink — 3,000 square feet of real ice — from Dec. 16 through Jan. 29.
U.S. National Mens Bronze Medalist and U.S. Olympic Festival Champion Michael Chack will perform on December 16 at 2:45 p.m. A professional for the last 13 years, Chack toured for seven years with Europe's "Holiday On Ice" and two years with "Disney On Ice" as a soloist. He’s also been a lead performer in various shows worldwide, and currently coaches and choreographs in the Bay Area.
There’s a full schedule of Alameda-style holiday celebrations on Friday, Dec. 16. Beginning with a ceremonial kickoff and ribbon cutting at 2:45 p.m. by Alameda Mayor Marie Gilmore and Christopher Seiwald, founder and CEO of Perforce Software, who made the rink possible. At 3:30 p.m., Santa Claus will arrive by festive fire truck.
The rink is in old-town Alameda at the former site of Good Chevrolet at 1600 Park Street, on the corner of Park and Tilden Way.
The Little Ice Rink will offer skate rentals as well as a selection of hot and cold beverages, baked treats, scarves, hats, socks and other cozy items for sale.
“Ice skating makes the holidays even merrier,” said Carrie Ewing, vice president of operations for Perforce, a global company founded 15 years ago in Alameda. “For years we’ve wanted to bring a skating rink to Alameda for the holidays. A couple weeks ago we got the chance, and with help we’ve made it happen.”
Skating won’t cost an arm and a leg, either: Tickets are $10 for children up to 12 years old and $15 for ages 13 and up. Skate rentals are available onsite, or bring your own skates to get a discount. Groups of 10 or more get 10% off when paying by credit card.
“Seeing the residents of Alameda blessed with a community ice skating rink has been a dream of the Perforce Software Foundation for many years. When the opportunity presented itself, we lept into action and found our new friends at Ice America to establish this delightful Little Ice Rink,” said Ewing. “With the help of Buestad Construction and local vendors and providers, we have been able to bring to Alameda this charming setting for the winter season. Skate one, skate all!”
HOURS OF OPERATION
Grand Opening!
Friday, Dec. 16 from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Holiday Hours:
Dec. 17, 2011 to Jan. 2, 2012, Noon – 10 p.m.
January Hours:
Jan. 3 to Jan. 29
Monday - Thursday 3 – 10 p.m.
Friday - Sunday Noon - 10 p.m.
TICKETS:
$15 for Adults - Kids 12 and over $10 for Kiddies - up to 12 years of age
Discounted prices for bringing your own skates!
Groups of 10 or more 10 percent off — must use credit card for purchase.
