Santa Clara Ice–a new outdoor iceskating rink in Central Park, 969 Kiely Blvd.–opened November 21 under blue sky, sunshine and 70-degree weather. The very first paid customers were Lorenzo Cinco and his three-year-old son, also Lorenzo, celebrating his birthday a few days early.
“My son was thrilled. He did great for the first time,” says Cinco. “I felt very welcomed. We had a terrific time and even got some free pointers. We’re thrilled that we have this opportunity here in Santa Clara.”
Beth Sevilla was throwing a sixth birthday party for her daughter, Erin, at the skating rink. A canopy-covered area for serving cake and opening gifts was reserved just for the party.
“We thought it would be fun to do. It’s in our own backyard,” says Sevilla. “It’s really great. It feels intimate.”
Santa Clara’s community holiday tree, a giant redwood adorned with lights, overlooks the 50′ X 90′ ice skating rink, which is located near the community recreation center.
The skating rink is open seven days a week, through January 18, 2016, including Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. Hours vary by day and include evenings. Admission for two hours of skating, which includes skates, is $10 for kids four to twelve and $15 for adults. Children under three are free with a paid adult. For hours and other information, call (408) 663-5278 or visit www.santaclaraonice.com.
“A lot of people think it’s harder than it really is to skate,” says Dave Fies, vice president of Special Ice, which built and operates the rink in partnership with the city of Santa Clara. “This is new to Santa Clara, and we hope to be here in future years.”
