Upstate’s Winter Wonderland: Holiday Ice Skating Rinks

Here’s some warm news for Upstate residents and visitors searching for some cool winter fun. Although the chances of a white Christmas loom low, who said you need snow to glide into the season’s cheer? Embrace the crisp nip in the air and lace up your skates because holiday ice rinks are already popping up across the Upstate, and many more are just about to open in the coming weeks.

What’s better? You don’t even need to own a pair of skates. All of these rinks are fully equipped with skate rentals, making it easy for first-timers and casual skaters alike to join in on the excitement. Here’s a rundown of what’s in the works:

UC Ice on Main

This annual extravaganza in downtown Greenville is held on the Village Green. The ice rink opens on Nov. 25, running till Jan. 20. It operates from 2-9 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 2-10 p.m. on Friday, and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. on weekends. There’s even extended hours from Dec. 20 through Jan. 2, when it will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Ice in the Park

The popular winter destination at Carolina Wren Park in Anderson will open from Dec.2 to Jan. 5. Operating hours from Dec. 2-22 are 5-9 p.m. from Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2-6 p.m. on Sundays. Over the Christmas period from Dec. 23 to Jan. 5, the rink will be open from 1-9 p.m. from Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2-6 p.m. on Sundays. The rink will take a break on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Night of Lights

Set in Simpsonville at the Heritage Park, Night of Lights is much more than just an ice rink. Besides a skate around the rink, visitors can enjoy a walk-through light display, petting zoo, and carnival rides. Open from Nov. 22 to Jan. 3, the holiday fair runs from 5-9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and 5-10 p.m. from Friday to Saturday.

Founders Holiday Ice Rink

Located across Fountain Park in Rock Hill, this ice rink is now open and will operate through Jan. 20. The rink operates from 5-8 p.m. from Tuesday to Thursday, 5-9:30 p.m. on Fridays, noon-9:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and non-8 p.m. on Sundays.

Pavilion Recreation Complex

Now, if the winter holiday season isn’t your thing, or you’re looking for some ice skating fun throughout the year, the Pavilion Recreation Complex in Taylors offers a year-round indoor ice rink for public use. Do note that the public skate hours vary, so be sure to give a call and check on the upcoming week’s schedule.

So, there you have it! Whether you’re new to ice-skating or a seasoned glider, these rinks are all prepared to give you a piece of winter joy. Don’t forget to bundle up and bring your holiday spirit — who knows, Santa might just be your next skating partner!