The seasonal ice skating rink in Livingston’s Central Park has been a holiday hit, according to the Livingston-Overton County Chamber of Commerce.
President and CEO Zach Stephens said the Chamber tested ice skating last year to see what the demand could be. The city Main Street Committee decided to purchased the rink after receiving positive feedback. Stephens said he hopes the rink will continue to get families out of the house and attract tourists to the area. Stephens said the rink is a fun, seasonal activity for locals to enjoy during the holidays.
“I’ve seen lots of kids out there. I’ve seen a few adults tempting fate, and it seems like everyone is having just a jolly good time out there,” Stephens said. “We’re pretty pleased with the success of it.”
Stephens said the rink has seen the most use on Christmas in the Country nights, attracting people from out-of-town and encouraging them to shop the local markets. Stephens said the rink can hold around 50 people, reaching full capacity some nights. Stephens said some nights are slower than others, depending on the activities taking place in the community. Stephens said the Chamber has been pleasantly surprised by turnout so far.
“There are some brave parents out there who get out there and skate with their kids,” Stephens said. “Some of them just patiently watch from afar, snapping photos and I think getting some joy from seeing their kids doing ice skating.”
Stephens said the city is hosting the Christmas of Dreams tree contest at the park, allowing families to walk the park and observe the trees together either before or after enjoying the ice. The trees are decorated by businesses in the community.
“A really happy time all around for a family,” Stephens said.
Stephens said it is open on Thursdays and Fridays, opening on the afternoon and evening on Saturdays. The rink will be open through the final Saturday of the month. Stephens said the rink will be a permanent addition to the city, opening during the wintertime as a seasonal treat.