The Crown Center Ice Terrace in downtown Kansas City opened its 54th holiday season on Friday, continuing a beloved tradition of winter recreation for local families. The opening ceremony featured a complimentary skate session from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., giving early‑rising residents a chance to enjoy the ice before regular admission fees begin.
Season‑long Hours and Pricing
From November through January, the rink will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday, and extended to 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Those hours remain in effect through February and March, providing ample opportunity for residents to fit skating into busy holiday schedules.
Daily skate rentals are priced at $6 per person. General admission is $10, while children under four skate free. The affordable rates are intended to keep the experience accessible to families of all income levels, reinforcing the community‑focused spirit of the Crown Center.
Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting
Coinciding with the ice‑rink opening, the city’s official Christmas tree will be hoisted on Friday. The annual lighting ceremony is scheduled for Friday, November 27 at 6:00 p.m., offering a festive backdrop for shoppers and visitors strolling through the downtown area.
National Recognition and Public Voting
The Crown Center Ice Terrace and the accompanying Christmas tree have been nominated for USA Today’s Top 10 Best Holiday Trees and Ice Rinks. Residents can cast one vote per day online until Monday, November 30 at 11:00 a.m. The final list of the Top 10 Best holiday attractions will be announced on Thursday, December 3.
Community Impact
For more than five decades, the Ice Terrace has served as a gathering place where Kansas City families create holiday memories, learn to skate, and enjoy a safe, family‑friendly environment. Local businesses benefit from increased foot traffic, and the rink’s extended hours through March help sustain downtown activity well beyond the traditional holiday rush.
City officials and Crown Center management encourage residents to take advantage of the free early‑morning skate and to consider voting for the rink in the USA Today contest. By supporting this community tradition, Kansas City continues to showcase its commitment to family‑centered recreation and holiday cheer.
Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.
