There’s been a hustle and bustle of activity in Historic Folsom this week and that can only mean one thing,  the holiday season is fast approaching. With that most wonderful time of the year comes the return of one of the city’s most beloved traditions—the Historic Folsom Ice Rink.  

Construction of the 2024-25 rink got underway earlier this week and is set to officially open to the public on Nov. 8. The return of the local holiday favorite promises the perfect blend of tradition as well as some new offerings, making the upcoming season one to remember for all ages. 

After many improvements last season made by the Folsom Historic District Association (FHDA), skaters will once again enjoy the charm of the unique circular rink that surrounds the historic railroad turntable in the heart of the Historic Folsom Plaza, the centerpiece surrounded by the charming sights and sounds of the Historic District, a place everyone wants to visit during the holidays. 

The ice rink’s modern infrastructure, implemented last year, was top-notch and returns this year once again so skaters can expect high-quality ice that rivals some of the best skating destinations worldwide. Last year’s new wooden railings, which complement the Plaza’s historic atmosphere, will return—providing both function and aesthetic appeal.

The 2024 season will bring back many beloved activities and introduce exciting new events designed to engage the entire community. New this year, Skate School will provide lessons for beginners, helping skaters of all ages feel more confident on the ice.  Judy Collinsworth also told Folsom Times that the Folsom Historic District Association has acquired all new skates this year as well.

Holiday movie nights will allow families and friends to enjoy some favorite family films on select evenings, while princess and superhero appearances will delight little ones on select dates. There will also be special adult skate events featuring fun themes, and plans are underway for a New Year’s Eve celebration to ring in 2025 in style.

Once again the ice rink will be “ground zero” when it comes to the 2024 Historic Folsom Christmas Tree lighting celebration. This year’s celebration is scheduled for Friday Dec. 6. and is always a popular attraction along with the rising of Santa’s Christmas Cottage that will become an addition to the grounds in the weeks ahead . Until then, there is plenty of time to come and enjoy the facility prior to that with next week’s opening. 

Returning from last year are popular activities that became instant favorites, such as S’mores kits and firepit rentals, where friends can gather around a firepit, toast s’mores, and take in the festive surroundings. Guests can enjoy food and drink options, including wine from nearby Willamette Wineworks on select dates as well as warm soup from Scott’s Seafood for select days, and of course, hot cocoa and coffee fare will be available to keep every cozy warm during their visits as the days get colder. 

The Folsom Historic District Association has partnered with many community sponsors to make this year’s ice rink another standout event with top quality skates for use along with skate assist devices and everything you need whether you are an experience skater or a novice.. Rink buyouts, field trips, and group packages can also be arranged. More on all of that can be found on the official venue website at www.folsomicerink.com, ensuring a seamless experience as you plan your festive outing. 

Tickets will officially begin to go on sale for the new season online at www.folsomicerink.com starting on Nov. 1. With so much to offer, the Historic Folsom Ice Rink promises to be a centerpiece of the holiday season, creating joyful memories for locals and visitors alike. 

Folsom Times will expand on the special events taking place at the rink in the weeks ahead as they approach.