Grab your mittens, scarf, and skates and prepare for a fun-filled time! Even though we don’t get snow in the Valley, that can’t stop you from ice skating and participating in other wonderful holiday-themed activities. AZFoothills.com has gathered a few of the best spots for ice-skating in the Valley and we know you will not want to miss out. These ice-skating rinks make for a great family outing and help create holiday memories that will last forever.
Westgate’s Winter Wonderland
On Nov. 24, Westgate will transform into a magical winter wonderland. On opening day, they will start off the holiday season with a tree lighting, skating performance, and Santa will make his official arrival. Until Christmas Eve, they will have free festive activities for all including their skating rink, a nightly snowfall, and horse-drawn carriage rides. There will also be special performances on other days. If you don’t feel like shopping on Black Friday you can come to Westgate and spend it with the Arizona Coyotes. You could also help light the Grand Menorah on Dec. 13. This day, you will have the opportunity to create a high-tech 3D ornament of your head on a snowman or elf’s body. This sight will ensure for a good laugh.
CitySkate
For a total of seven weeks you have the opportunity to visit and experience a magical holiday outing with the family. CityScape transforms into CitySkate, the Valley’s biggest outdoor ice rink. CitySkate opens on Nov. 28 and will kick off the holiday season off with a tree-lighting ceremony. The 36-foot Christmas tree will be in the middle of the rink for all to admire and will be sparkling with hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Santa will make his appearance and be available for photos from 4 until 8 p.m. There will also be a nightly snowfall so everyone can experience a true White Christmas. CitySkate will be open until Jan 11 and is a guaranteed fun time for every one of all ages.
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
From Nov. 19 through Jan. 3, come and experience the 6th annual Christmas at the Princess festival. You will want to make sure you’re there for the first day to witness their annual Christmas at the Princess Tree Lighting ceremony. It will include exciting family-oriented activities like a visit from Santa Claus, carolers, spiced cider and cookies, and the opening of their 6,000-sq.- ft. Desert Ice Skating Rink. They also have some new features this year like their Christmas petting zoo, breakfast with Santa and friends, and S’mores Land and a Christmas carousel. You will to reference the Fairmont Scottsdale Christmas festival calendar because there will be special events on certain days.
http://www.scottsdaleprincess.com/Seasonal-Events/Christmas-at-the-Princess
The Wigwam
Friday, Nov. 27 through Sunday, Jan. 3, you are invited to celebrate Christmas at the Wigwam hotel. They are partnering with Hilgers Orthodontics to bring you an outdoor skating rink for the ultimate holiday fun. The rink will be open on Thursdays through Sunday and other Christmas themed events will be taking place too. Make sure to come on opening day for their holiday tree lighting. This experience will feature live music, cookies and refreshments, and even a visit from the North Pole. The Wigwam will also have many other holiday events including breakfast with Santa, The Nutcracker ballet, holiday tea, and even more. This is a Christmas outing that you and the family will not want to miss.
