The world’s most famous ice rink opened for the season on Tuesday, October 11th with Olympic Silver Medalist Figure Skater Sasha Cohen serving as host. Cohen led a troupe of young skaters from Ice Theatre of New York and Figure Skating in Harlem, who participated in the ceremonial ribbon cutting and the first skate of the season.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center, which opened in 1936, is celebrating its 80th anniversary. During the opening celebrations, a trio of figure skaters from Ice Dance International paid tribute to the milestone by performing “The Three Smokers,” a piece commissioned by Ice Theatre of New York and choreographed by famed NYC ballet choreographer Edward Villella, who also appeared at the event.
Olympic Silver Medalist Sasha Cohen hosts the opening of The Rink at Rockefeller Center on October 11, 2016.
Always the first ice rink in New York to open each year, The Rink is an international cultural landmark and one of the most visited sites in the world, with more than a quarter of a million annual skaters. This season, The Rink offers experiences including Afternoon Tea and Skating, late night Starlight Skate, and classic traditions such as Breakfast with Santa, Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Engagement on Ice, First Skate, and VIP Skating.
To commemorate the 80th Anniversary, The Rink and its surrounding restaurants will harken back to its opening year with nostalgic touches from menu offerings to décor and music. The Rink will play Billboard #1 songs from the last 80 years.
Throughout the season, all packages can be booked in advance and reservations made online. The Rink is located on 5th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets. For information, visit www.therinkatrockcenter.com or call 212.332.7654.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center is a national treasure recognized throughout the world. It first opened on December 25, 1936 as the premier artificial outdoor skating pond built in New York City, complete with modern amenities: night skating, a heated house for changing skates, and piped-in music. The gilded statue of the Greek legend Prometheus, sculpted by Paul Manship looks over The Rink. Rink-side dining is a quintessential New York experience, at The Sea Grill and Rock Center Café restaurants.
