It’s that time of year again, the time to lace up your skates, gather your loved ones, and hit the ice! The Historic Folsom Holiday Ice Rink officially opened for the 2024-25 season last Friday, inviting skaters of all ages to come and enjoy one of the area’s most cherished holiday traditions.
Nestled in the heart of Historic Folsom, this charming rink is more than just a place to skate—it’s a place to make memories, create traditions, and embrace the holiday spirit together. With festive decorations, cozy fire pits, and enough events to keep the whole family entertained, the Historic Folsom Ice Rink promises to bring joy, nostalgia, and a little bit of winter magic to everyone who visits.
This holiday season, the rink returns with its signature circular shape that wraps around the historic railroad turntable—a unique setup that’s become an iconic sight for Folsom locals and visitors alike. There’s something special about gliding across the ice while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Historic District, where the smell of fresh pine and holiday treats fills the air and twinkling lights illuminate the Plaza. Every year, this seasonal attraction becomes a centerpiece for community gatherings, and with its opening, the holiday season in Folsom truly begins.
The opening of the rink isn’t just exciting for skaters; it also brings added tourism and seasonal jobs to the Historic District. This year, the Folsom Historic District Association has hired around 40 local staff members to ensure that the rink is well-maintained and that guests have a seamless, joyful experience throughout the season. It’s not only a labor of love but a community endeavor that helps bring the holiday magic to life for residents and visitors alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned skater or strapping on skates for the first time, the Historic Folsom Ice Rink has something for everyone. In fact, this year’s new addition, Skate School, will offer lessons for beginners, giving those new to the ice a chance to build confidence and learn the basics before venturing out on their own. And the rink has all-new skates this season, so whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you can count on gliding comfortably and safely. The high-quality ice and modern infrastructure, introduced last season, are also back, promising a smooth and enjoyable experience that rivals some of the best ice rinks worldwide.
For families, this year’s lineup of events includes themed nights designed to make every trip to the rink a new adventure. Little ones will be enchanted by princess and superhero nights, where beloved characters join the fun and make memories that children will treasure for years to come. There will also be holiday movie nights, so families can bundle up and watch seasonal favorites after their skate. And for adults looking for a unique night out, there are special evenings with themes and fun surprises—perfect for date nights, friend groups, or even solo skaters looking for a festive twist.
And the celebrations don’t stop at skating! The Historic Folsom Ice Rink will be the center of Folsom’s annual holiday festivities, including the highly anticipated Christmas Tree Lighting, scheduled for Friday, Dec. 6. This event draws families and friends from all over, filling the district with music, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer. In the weeks ahead, Santa’s Christmas Cottage will also soon be set up nearby, (see additional story),making the plaza a winter wonderland that will delight visitors of all ages. Plus, plans are already underway for a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration, so skaters can ring in 2025 with style and sparkle.
The rink is also prepared to make every visit cozy and comfortable. After a spin on the ice, guests can make reservations to gather around fire pits to warm up with s’mores, cocoa, and seasonal treats in select areas and more. Local businesses have partnered with the rink to offer specialty food and drink options, including warming soups from Scott’s Seafood and wines from Willamette Wineworks on select evenings. With cozy beverages, toasty fires, and the crisp chill of winter in the air, it’s a perfect recipe for holiday joy.
For those who want to make skating part of a group outing, the Folsom Historic District Association has made it easier than ever with rink buyouts, field trips, and group packages. With so many ways to enjoy the rink, it’s no surprise that it draws families, school groups, and friends year after year, creating lasting memories in the heart of Historic Folsom.
Open daily until January 20, the rink has a full season of holiday magic in store. With so much to look forward to, there’s no better time to make a visit to the Historic Folsom Ice Rink part of your holiday traditions. Tickets are available now at folsomicerink.com, so make sure to reserve your spot and get ready to glide through a season of holiday cheer, all in the heart of Folsom’s Historic District.