(PHOTOS BY BRIANNA BALOGH / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
ICE RINK … Pictured in front of the rink are front row Linda Reeves, Sara Locke and Carrie King. Back row Mayor Don Leu, Brad Locke and Jason King.
ENTERING … Shown is the concession front entrance of the ice rink in West Unity.
By: Brianna Balogh
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
The Christmas spirit was in full swing in West Unity as a new ice rink was opened, located directly behind the Holly Jolly Christmas Shop.
The ice rink came from Switzerland and is common in most European countries. With no need for refrigeration, the ice rink is more energy efficient and less weather dependent, allowing for ice skating even on a sunny fall day.
Concessions are available for hungry skaters and families. Snacks, sweets, drinks, and fun extras were on the menu. Options include hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, cookies, s’mores box and of course hot chocolate.
Enjoy your sweet or savory treat at the large live edge table surrounded by hand painted winter murals and even a sleigh and reindeer.
Also available at the concession area are extras such as light sticks and light up Boba Balloons. T-shirts can be purchased in the concession area along with free skate rental.
Christmas decorations are sprinkled all around the rink and outdoor area. Sledding elves overlook the s’mores area with a Christmas village backdrop.
S’more stations are available to use not only for the s’mores boxes but will also serve as heaters into the colder months. Next to the rink is a stage where the DJ will be set up.
A family seating area with patio couches, surrounded by oversized ornaments, presents, and multiple Christmas trees is tucked away beside the rink.
Lighted Christmas trees, penguins, and snowmen border the rink. There are even some ice skating penguins who joined Mayor Don Leu on the rink.
The ice rink celebrated the grand opening on October 5th, with the Rolling Sweet food truck and vendors set up in front of the Christmas Shop.
The ice rink will be open on weekends, starting Friday evening from 4-8pm, Saturday from 11-8, and Sunday from 12-4. Skate rental is just $5 with the option to bring your own skates if desired.
Spread over the next several weeks, all students in Williams and Fulton county will receive free skate passes to enjoy some time at the ice rink.