PORTAGE, MI — The time has come for residents in the Portage area to start getting their ice skates ready. The ice skating area at Millennium Park, located at 280 Romence Road, is set to open for the season on Friday, December 13 at 3 p.m. Over the past five years, the ice rink has […]
PORTAGE, MI — The time has come for residents in the Portage area to start getting their ice skates ready.
The ice skating area at Millennium Park, located at 280 Romence Road, is set to open for the season on Friday, December 13 at 3 p.m.
Over the past five years, the ice rink has faced several challenges. Throughout most of the 2023-24 season and all of the 2022-23 season, the rink remained closed due to a significant malfunction in its refrigeration system. The years 2020-21 and 2021-22 also saw the rink shuttered due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Last season, the rink opened in January and closed in late February a week earlier than planned due to warm weather.
According to a press release from the city of Portage, the rink offers a “fun, family-oriented way” to celebrate the holiday season.
To celebrate the start of the season, the Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association will host a 15-minute skating demonstration at the rink’s opening. Additionally, the first 25 skaters will receive free admission, per the release.
Admission for open skate at the rink is $5. Visitors can either bring their own skates or rent ones available at the rink for $3. Both hockey and figure skates can be rented, with figure skates offered in sizes 8 Junior to 12 and hockey skates in sizes 8 Junior to 15.
Skates that need sharpening can be done at the rink for a fee of $3.
Concession items such as hot cocoa, cappuccinos, sodas, snacks, and candy will be available for purchase.
The rink’s hours are from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
The rink will close its season on March 2.
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Exciting news for Portage residents! The Millennium Park ice skating rink is set to open on December 13, just in time for the festive season. After overcoming several challenges in the past few years, including a malfunctioning refrigeration system and COVID-related closures, this year promises a fun family atmosphere. With free admission for the first 25 skaters and a demonstration from the Greater Kalamazoo Skating Association, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy the winter weather outdoors. Don’t forget your skates—or you can rent them on-site!