Detroit’s iconic outdoor ice skating rink at Campus Martius is set to open its 21st season next week, with a festive weekend celebration that includes themed skate parties, live DJs, and special guest appearances.
Hosted by the Downtown Detroit Partnership and presented by Visit Detroit, The Rink at Campus Martius attracts nearly 100,000 visitors each season, providing a memorable winter experience for both locals and visitors.
“Every year, we welcome thousands of visitors across the region and beyond to experience the quintessential winter Detroit experience that combines family entertainment, energizes our downtown shops and restaurants, and fosters memorable winter traditions and fun for everyone,” Claude Molinari, president and CEO of Visit Detroit, said in a statement Monday. “For families returning to The Rink for another year or visitors experiencing it for the first time, The Rink showcases everything that makes Detroit a premier winter destination — proud community spirit and signature seasonal festivities.”
The opening weekend festivities kick off on Saturday, Nov. 23, with a Grinch Skate Party from noon to 4 p.m. The event includes a DJ, holiday music, and a special appearance by the Grinch. That evening, guests can don their best tacky attire for the Ugly Holiday Sweater Party, where they’ll enjoy music and have a chance to win prizes.
The weekend wraps up on Sunday, Nov. 24, with a Holiday Onesie and Family Pajama Skate Party, complete with hot cocoa, holiday tunes, and prizes for the most festive group outfits.
New to the rink this year is CHALET 313, a two-story, glass-enclosed lounge designed by Gardner White, offering seating, a lively bar, and 360-degree views of the ice rink, the Christmas tree, and Detroit’s winter skyline. The heated chalet provides a cozy spot to relax with a warm drink while watching the skaters below.
“The Rink at Campus Martius Park is one of the nation’s most scenic skating experiences, bringing thousands of visitors to Detroit each year,” David Cowan, chief public spaces officer with the Downtown Detroit Partnership. “This season, we’re adding new features like CHALET 313 to elevate the experience and create a festive gathering place for all ages.”
In addition to the rink’s regular attractions, this season will feature popular events, such as Little Red Wings, a hockey skills program for kids in partnership with the Detroit Red Wings, and Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer, a benefit ice show supporting cancer research.
The Rink will remain open seven days a week, including holidays, through March 2.
Tickets are available for presale online, with admission at $12 for adults, $9 for children and seniors, and $8 for military members and first responders. Skate rentals are $6, and group rates are also available.
For more information, including a full schedule of hours and events, see DowntownDetroit.org.
