Seasonal ice rink opens to Fresno public

The air is frigid and people dressed in heavy jackets and miscellanies winter wear stop to watch their breaths swirl into a thick mist above them. Couples skate hand in hand, friends laugh and families prop wayward toddlers upon makeshift ice walkers. Music plays over the sounds of blades against ice as each figure travels around the circular rink.

The holiday season in Fresno and in nearly every city or town is characterized by traditions, events and special activities. Among them is the Fulton Ice Rink, located in the Fulton Mall on Mariposa Plaza.

The rink was implemented into Fresno holiday traditions several years ago. It is currently financially supported by a board of generous sponsors.

Since it’s beginnings it has accommodated thousands of visitors and continues to thrive during Fresno’s chilly months.

Richard Roman, assistant manager of the rink’s evening shift believes that the annual event prompts Fresno’s residents to gain a deeper appreciation of their city and community as a whole.

“I think the rink adds a positive vibe {to the community} and I think that’s something that the Fulton mall and this downtown area really needs right now,” Roman said. “It’s a positive vibe with people loving their city. If people don’t love their city it isn’t going to change positively it?s going to change negatively. That’s one thing that Fresno people need to realize: if you don’t love your city your city’s not going to love you back.”

This seasonal attraction is open Nov. 13 through Jan. 19, to the general public and to single parties upon prior contact and negotiation.

The rink is open for daily sessions Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

On week days, admission is $8 for children and $10 for adults. Saturday through Sunday admission runs at $10 per child and $12 per adult.

Parking validation at Garage 8 located at 1077 Van Ness Ave, is included in admission cost. However, it should be noted that parking in any city lot with a parking meter, after 6 p.m., on week nights and on weekends is free of charge.

Kimmy [last name withheld], has a history in gymnastics and fencing. Her children as well as herself are frequent visitors of the Fulton Ice Rink. The mother of four says she appreciates the serene atmosphere and the rink’s cost efficient family plan.

“I love that it’s outside, it’s so beautiful under the stars to bring the community together,” Kimmy said. “It’s different people every night. There’s fresh air and it’s not freezing cold like it is indoors. It’s fun and people usually come out once or twice a year here and their all beginners. It’s also affordable here. The family pack is a great deal and makes a big difference.”

First time attendee Shani [last name withheld], enjoyed a night of laughter on the ice with a group of friends. She purchased a season pass in order to skate more often and plans to return many times within the next few weeks.
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“Skating is fun but hard,” Shani said with a laugh. “We will definitely come back because we got a whole season pass. My favorite part would probably be me falling.”

Skates in all sizes are available for rent. The charge is included in admission. However, those with their own skates are welcomed to bring them as well.

Seasonal passes are available for families and individuals who plan to attend the rink frequently. An adult seasonal pass is $49 and a child’s pass is $39. A family of two adults and four children can by a pass bundle for $99, but $20 is required per every additional child past the quantity of four.

Junior Marissa Jonigan is familiar with the Fulton mall, but was unaware of the annual ice skating event. She thinks the idea of an outdoor ice rink in the midst of the mall is a both interesting and fun concept.

“I’ve been to the Fulton mall, but have never heard or been to the ice rink before,” Jonnigan said. “It sounds really fun to go to. I would definitely go if I had the time and a good group of friends to go with.”

Bailey Brogan, ’16 visited the rink last year with a group of friends. He enjoyed the family oriented setting and the overall experience, despite the fact that he slipped a few times.

“There were lots of families there taking their children skating,” Brogan said. “It was nice to see all the dad?s spending time with their kids and laughing. For me it was fun even though I fell a few times because let’s face it, I’m pretty clumsy.”

For more information about the Fulton Ice Rink local events, check out the Downtown Fresno Partnership.

For more features, read the Nov. 21 article, Jack Leonard: A veterans perspective (PODCAST).

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