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Top 5 Things to Experience at Oly on Ice

Celebrate the winter season with friends and family as you skate, sing, dance and sip hot cocoa at one of Olympia’s most popular winter traditions, the annual Oly on Ice pop-up ice skating rink.

Oly on Ice

Once again bringing winter joy and fun to Isthmus Park in Downtown Olympia, the 2022-23 season of Oly on Ice will run from November 18 through January 16, inviting skaters of all ages and skill levels to glide around the fully enclosed pop-up rink. Here are our picks for the top activities and experiences not to miss during Oly on Ice this season:

People ice skating around an enclosed rink

1. Ice Skating, of course!

Glide, dance, or practice your Lutz or Axel (or just try to remain upright) as you make your way around the 5,200-square-foot rink beneath a canopy of sparkling lights and skate to a soundtrack of popular jams. The fully enclosed rink is the only one of its kind in Olympia, and offers a wondrous winter escape in the heart of downtown, adjacent to Capitol Lake. Skating tickets are available for purchase online, include skate rental, and are good for a 75-minute session for each skater (skaters can remain on the ice following their 75 minute session, capacity permitting).

TIP: For less experienced skaters, skate aids are available to rent on a first come, first served basis.

A young girl poses for a photo in front of the Oly on Ice enclosed rink.

2. Special Events & Themed Nights

Throughout the season, Oly on Ice will host various special events — with special guests — and themed skate nights. Several standout events this season include:

The Nutcracker

November 20, 1-3 p.m.

Studio West Dance Academy will bring this holiday classic to life at Oly on Ice, complete with costumed characters from the iconic ballet dancing around the rink in addition to offering other family-friendly activities.

Downtown for the Holidays & Winterfest

November 27, 4-6 p.m.

Learn the latest about Winterfest and Downtown for the Holidays as the Olympia Downtown Association hosts family-friendly activities, giveaways and vouchers to local Olympia businesses, perfect for kick-starting your holiday shopping.

Greener Appreciation Night

December 1, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Show your Evergreen State College pride during a themed skate night featuring all ages activities and a special appearance by the school’s mascot, Speedy the geoduck.

Check the official Oly on Ice website for the latest information and for a full calendar of special events and themed skate nights.

TIP: Those seeking a more sensory-friendly setting shouldn’t miss Sensory Skate Sundays. Hosted every Sunday from 10-11 a.m. (except for Christmas Day, December 25) in partnership with South Sound Parent to Parent, these hour-long skating sessions are hosted in a calm, quiet environment, with no music and low-level lighting.

3. Fuel Your Skating Session with Hot Cocoa

It wouldn’t truly be a winter pop-up experience without cups of hot chocolate waiting for you rinkside. Complimentary cocoa will be available during special events throughout the season. One such event is the November 30 performance by local skating superstar, Debbie Leung, who will be performing a short set on the Oly on Ice rink with hot chocolate from Bittersweet Chocolate available for spectators. Other hot chocolate-infused events include a holiday carol performance by The Rose Garden Singers on December 5, as well as two special Cocoa with a Cop events (December 6 & January 10), featuring representatives from the Olympia Police Department and Olympia Parks Stewardship Program. For more information on hot chocolate pop-ups, visit the official Oly on Ice website.

Three children skate, hand-in-hand, around the enclosed rink at Oly on Ice

4. Sing & Dance to Live Music

Rock your way around the rink during special live music performances throughout the season. On December 9, enjoy covers of rock and pop hits alongside original tracks from local band Sweet’ner. The Bridge Music Project takes to the stage on December 16, featuring live performances from local youth artists. Then, on January 13, Jam to a lively DJ set by Golden Era Disciples, featuring choreographed off-ice dance performances.

5. Explore Nearby Attractions, Shops & Markets

A landmark winter attraction in its own right, Oly on Ice also serves as a gateway to Olympia’s other downtown holiday experiences. Once your skating session concludes, extend the winter fun by exploring the nearby Olympia Farmers Market, where you can shop for local goods and seasonal treats from local vendors. Also within walking distance, explore the whimsically decorated storefronts of downtown Olympia businesses as part of the annual Winter Fest event (and remember to pop inside to find one-of-a-kind gifts!). Other nearby, all-ages experiences include the Puget Sound Estuarium, Hands On Children’s Museum, Washington Center for the Performing Arts and an array of standout local restaurants with seasonal menus.

For more information about Oly on Ice’s 2022-23 season, to reserve tickets and for updates on upcoming events and special skating experiences, visit the official Oly on Ice website.

*This blog post is sponsored by Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation

Oly on Ice

Bundle up in your favorite sweater, put on a cozy hat, tie on your skates, and celebrate the season at the 4th annual Oly on Ice, a pop-up ice skating rink in…

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Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation

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