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We can now officially complain about how cold it is in Los Angeles, and with the holidays coming up, it's time to get into the spirit of what passes for autumn and winter around here. Your local big box superstore may already be over-reaching with Christmas decorations, but when it comes to good old fashioned fun, the most important season is upon us: Ice skating!
Here's some info about five area seasonal outdoor ice skating rinks open or opening soon:
ICE in Woodland Hills
ICE got a head start on outdoor ice skating on October 21, and is open for its third season through February 5, 2012. The rink is over 7,000 square feet of real ice located within a 30,000 square foot facility at the corner of Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Erwin Street. One-on-one instruction is available, and the ICE skating school, with its 8-week program, is enrolling now for its November 28 start.
ICE in Santa Monica
Another ICE, this time right in the heart of Downtown Santa Monica. This rink, in its 5th year, opens November 11, and runs through January 16, 2012. Located at 5th and Arizona, the rink is just blocks from the beach. (Isn't that crazypants cool?!?) You can try the rink for free during their Community Grand Opening Celebration from 5-10 p.m. on Tuesday, November 15th, too. The rink will host themed events, and offer hockey clinics and skate lessons, too.
Downtown on Ice
Pershing Square will be home to Downtown on Ice for the 14th year, from November 17 through January 16, 2012. The rink touts itself as the biggest rink with the smallest admission fee. Bonus: It's right near the Metro for easy car-free access--plus a partnership with Metro and Montebello bus lines allows riders to receive a $1 discount on skating sessions.
CHILL at the W Hotel in Westwood
For a more "chic" ice skating experience, check out CHILL at the W Hotel in Westwood's 1,600 square foot custom shaped hybrid-ice rink. They explains: "Guests are invited to ice skate amidst a backdrop of bright lights, fanciful candlelit votives and snowfall every hour. Enter a winter world of luxury - as each outdoor cabana is outfitted with a playful and elegant mix of lavish and modern décor by Z Gallerie; from chic mirrors to white deer heads and handmade rugs to modern textiles." Oooh la la! Runs November 18 to January 1, 2012.
L.A. Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. Live
You guessed it: The L.A. Kings host an outdoor rink at L.A. Live. It will be open this season from November 26 to January 5, 2012.
Bonus Nerd Out: Read about the Tropical Ice Gardens, L.A.'s onetime year-round outdoor skating rink in Westwood.
