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“The story we hear, time and time again, is that skating at RiverScape has become a holiday tradition for so many families,” said RiverScape manager Meredith Adamisin. “It’s a really special experience.”
How special? Well, there are already two marriage proposals scheduled for this season.
In its ninth year, the region’s largest outdoor rink hosts special events and open skating. From skating lessons for all ages to curling and broomball, the facility welcomes about 18,000 guests a season.
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Those who can only handle the cold in small doses will enjoy the new Kettering Health Network Comfort Tent. The flexible and, most importantly, heated space has family-style seating for about 40 people and is an ideal place to thaw out, relax and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa.
“The decision to add the comfort tent was based on our visitor surveys,” Adamisin said. “We do experience … harsh winds near the river and wanted to find a way to make our guests more comfortable.”
An afternoon on the ice won’t break the bank, as it costs just $6 daily, $2 more for skate rental. A family season pass rings up at just $90, covering unlimited admission and skate rental for up to five people. Individual season passes are $30, less than the price of four visits. And season-pass holders also enjoy 25 percent off at the RiverScape Café.
“When you buy a season pass as a present, you’re giving them an experience,” Adamisin said.
Don’t know how to skate? Not a problem — skating lessons for children, teens and adults are held at the rink throughout the season. The three-week sessions cover the basics and participants receive two free skate admissions so they can fine tune their skills. To register or view a list of available lessons, visit metroparks.org/skating.
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In addition to lessons and open skating, there are also several themed nights this season. From the music of “Frozen” to Dayton Funk, and Queen to Top 40, the tunes will attract all ages.
If skating is not your thing, there are other options. Recreational activities at the rink include curling and broomball. To learn more about these programs, visit metroparks.org/icerink.
MetroParks Ice Rink Upcoming Events
All events are included with regular admission. Lessons and the Sweetheart Skate costs are listed.
• Dec. 31, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. – New Year’s Eve Skate
• Jan. 1, 1-8 p.m. – New Year’s Day Skate
• Jan. 7-Feb. 27, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6-9 p.m. – Curling League
• Jan. 17, 7-10 p.m. – Dayton Funk Night
• Jan. 20, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. – Martin Luther King Jr. Day Skate
• Jan. 24, 7 -10 p.m. – Frozen on Ice
• Jan. 31, 7-10 – Top 40 Skate
• February skating lessons for adults, teens and children start Feb. 2. Registration is required; $50.
• Feb. 7, 7-10 p.m. – Music of Queen
• Feb. 14-16 – Sweetheart Skate Valentine’s Day Special: Two admissions, skate rentals, two hot chocolates and a box of Bellbrook Chocolate, $20 a couple during regular rink hours.
• Feb. 17, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. – President’s Day Skate
• March 1, 1-5 p.m. – Last day to skate
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