Denison families have a new winter pastime as the city’s downtown ice rink reopens on Nov. 21. The 11th “Denison on Ice” season will run through Jan. 3, 2027, giving residents a safe, affordable place to glide, practice jumps, or simply enjoy time together.
Location, pricing and what to expect
The rink is located at 111 Main Street, directly across from the Police Station and the historic Katy Depot. Admission is $12 per hour and includes rental skates, making it easy for anyone without equipment to join. For regular skaters, a $100 pass covers twelve one‑hour sessions, providing a discount for families who plan to visit often.
Spectators may watch the action without paying, though everyone entering the facility must sign a liability waiver. This ensures a safe environment for both participants and onlookers.
Holiday‑adjusted schedule
To accommodate the busy holiday season, the city has posted a clear skating schedule (all times Central):
- Nov. 21–28: 1 p.m. – 9 p.m., except Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26 (closed).
- Nov. 29–Dec. 19: Weekdays 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.; weekends 1 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Dec. 20–Jan. 3: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. on weekdays; 1 p.m. – 9 p.m. on weekends.
- Closed for three holidays: Thanksgiving (Nov. 26), Christmas Day (Dec. 25) and New Year’s Day (Jan. 1).
These hours give working parents the flexibility to bring children after school or during evening shifts, while still offering daytime access on weekends for families with younger children.
Why the rink matters to Denison families
Beyond recreation, the ice rink supports the community’s commitment to healthy, family‑centered activities. Outdoor winter sports are limited in North Texas, and the indoor rink provides a venue for physical exercise, social interaction, and seasonal celebration. Local churches and youth groups have already expressed interest in reserving blocks of time for organized events, reinforcing the rink’s role as a gathering place for faith‑based families.
Mayor John Smith praised the rink’s return, noting that “providing affordable, family‑friendly recreation aligns with our city’s values of strong neighborhoods and personal liberty. We want every child and parent to have safe, wholesome options for winter fun.”
Practical tips for first‑time skaters
First‑time visitors should arrive early to allow time for the waiver and skate fitting. The rink staff recommends wearing warm, breathable layers and bringing a water bottle. For those who prefer their own skates, the rental fee is waived with proof of ownership.
Parking is available in the municipal lot behind the depot, and the location is within walking distance of several downtown restaurants, making it easy to combine a skating session with a family meal.
Looking ahead
The city plans to evaluate attendance and community feedback after the season ends in early January. If demand remains strong, officials hope to extend the program or add additional ice‑related events, such as figure‑skating lessons or holiday themed performances.
Denison residents are encouraged to spread the word, share the schedule with neighbors, and enjoy a season of ice‑filled memories right in the heart of downtown.
Original reporting: DenisonWeekly.news — read the source article.
