Bend, OR – Bend Park and Recreation District’s Pavilion is in full swing this holiday season, offering residents and visitors alike the chance to lace up their skates and glide across the ice. The holiday skate sessions, which began earlier in December, are proving to be a popular winter activity, with an increase in skater attendance compared to previous years.
“It’s really fun,” said Kane Robinson, a local resident. “Sometimes I like it. If I have trouble, I just go and get into the penalty box.” Robinson’s lighthearted comment reflects the relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere at the rink, where people of all ages are invited to skate at their own pace.
Julie Brown, the Community Engagement Director for Bend Park and Rec, shared that the number of skaters during this year’s holiday season appears to be slightly higher than in 2023. “Generally, we think that their numbers might be slightly above where it was last year over the holidays,” Brown explained. “But day by day, it’s just been a really fun activity for skaters of all ages.”
The Pavilion’s holiday skate sessions are also drawing families, with many visitors spending time together during the winter break. Clara Brown, who is visiting from Olympia with her family, said, “I enjoy ice skating, and this is a really pretty rink. My mom took me and my siblings—my sister and my brother—and so it’s a lot of fun.”
For those interested in taking part, open skate sessions are held throughout the day, including morning, afternoon, and evening options. The afternoon sessions tend to be the busiest, so for those seeking a quieter experience, earlier or evening sessions are recommended. “That afternoon session seems to bring most people out,” Brown noted. “If you’re looking for maybe a slightly slower time of day, I would definitely encourage taking a look at that earlier in the day or in the evening.”
Admission for open skate is $7, with skate rentals available for an additional $3. Helmets are provided free of charge to ensure safety on the ice.
The holiday skate sessions will run through January 4, 2025, after which Bend Park and Rec will continue offering open skate sessions through early April, allowing skaters to enjoy the rink well into the spring.
Bend residents like Corbin Podwils have praised the experience, calling it “super fun” and likening it to a sport. With the Pavilion’s welcoming atmosphere and variety of skate times, it’s clear that ice skating has become a cherished winter tradition for many in the area.
