The region’s largest outdoor ice skating rink open Friday, November 23, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Admission to MetroParks Ice Rink at RiverScape MetroPark (229 E. Monument Ave., Dayton) is just $7, which includes the cost of skate rentals.

Work off Thanksgiving indulgences on the ice and enjoy holiday music during the grand-opening weekend:

Friday, Nov. 25, 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 26, 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 27, 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

MetroParks Ice Rink will be open every day of the week—even special holiday hours—through Thursday, February 28, 2013. Patrons can take advantage of concessions at Café Vélo, which will be open during skating hours, serving snacks, such as hot pretzels and also featuring healthy fare, such as chicken wraps and salads. Visitors can warm up with seasonal favorites like hot chocolate and cappuccino.

Patrons who bring their own skates can skate for free Mondays through Thursdays when there is no admission to the rink. Rentals are available for $5 on these days. Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays cost a $7 admission fee, which includes the cost of skate rentals.

MetroParks Ice Rink will be open during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays as well as several moreholidays and special events throughout the season. Visit metroparks.org/IceRink to find the complete schedule. Lessons and other skating programs also will be hosted at the rink throughout the season. On-ice dance parties, family skating, broomball and curling are among the available activities scheduled this winter. Visit metroparks.org/Skating or read the winter issue of ParkWays to learn more.

Season passes are available for purchase: $75 family passes cover admission and rentals for up to five people, and $40 individual passes cover the same costs. Visit the MetroPark Ice Rink page for a chance towin a family pass!

Private ice rink rentals are available. Rink rentals from 6-8 p.m. on Sunday and Thursday evenings include 50 pairs of ice skates and 50 cups of hot chocolate for $300. New this year: Bring Parker the Penguin mascot to your party for an additional $75. Call (937) 274-0126 for more information and available dates.

Smaller budget-friendly rink parties also make their debut this year. Parker Parties are priced at $150 and include 10 rink admissions plus skate rentals, 10 meal vouchers from Café Vélo (good for hot dog, chips and a drink), and two tables with chairs reserved onsite for the two-hour party.