It may still feel like fall in North Alabama, but ice skating season is just around the corner in downtown Huntsville.
Skating in the Park returns for its 15th season Friday, Nov. 20, transforming the green space behind the Huntsville Museum of Art into an outdoor ice rink complete with twinkling lights and holiday cheer.
The popular holiday tradition will continue through Jan. 3, 2027, offering skating seven days a week, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
“Skating in the Park has become a signature holiday tradition in Downtown Huntsville, bringing people together and creating lasting memories for families throughout the region,” said Christopher Madkour, executive director of the Huntsville Museum of Art.
“As we celebrate the rink’s 15th season, we are proud to continue this tradition with the support the City of Huntsville and our community partners.”
Located in Big Spring Park directly behind the museum, the rink has become a seasonal destination for families and visitors across North Alabama.
The attraction typically draws more than 18,000 skaters and 40,000 spectators each season.
But creating an outdoor ice rink in Alabama takes more than a little holiday magic.
Crews begin preparing the site weeks before opening day, working with city departments to transform the park into a skating destination.
The process involves installing cooling mats that circulate glycol, a refrigerated fluid that helps keep the ice frozen even when Alabama temperatures climb into the 70s.
Last season, the rink expanded by six feet with the addition of new cooling mats.
The operation also requires constant maintenance, from monitoring ice conditions to resurfacing the rink with a John Deere tractor fitted with a specialized blade.
This year’s skating season will include DJ nights and a New Year’s Eve celebration, along with regular public skating.
Admission is $15 for ages 10 and older and $5 for children 9 and younger. Skate rentals cost $5, and skating scooters are available for an additional $5.
Tickets are sold on-site, and operating hours vary throughout the season.
Skating in the Park is presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union, with support from the city of Huntsville and community partners.
For skating hours, special events and additional information, visit hsvmuseum.org.
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