As a kid in Detroit, the arrival of the tree at Campus Martius and the opening of the ice rink marked the start of the holiday season. It was a sign as clear as the smell of hot cocoa in the crisp air. Those moments set the tone for what many knew was the unofficial anthem of the season: “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.”
On November 23, 2024, The Rink at Campus Martius Park will begin another season as a gathering space for joy and tradition. Presented by Visit Detroit, this outdoor skating rink stands as a reflection of the city’s welcoming and resilient spirit.
The Rink has become a staple for families, friends, and visitors during the holidays. It sits in the heart of Woodward Avenue, surrounded by the city’s vibrant energy. Skaters of all ages take to the ice, sharing moments that become lasting memories. The downtown location, framed by holiday lights and the sound of laughter, transforms into a winter haven.
“As we mark the 21st season of The Rink at Campus Martius Park, Visit Detroit is proud to collaborate with the Downtown Detroit Partnership for another year. 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. 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,” said Claude Molinari, president and CEO of Visit Detroit.
This year’s Opening Weekend Celebration on November 23 and 24 promises to kick off the 2024-2025 skating season with special guest appearances and skating parties. The event brings the community together, creating an atmosphere of fun and connection. Visitors can expect an experience rooted in tradition and filled with holiday cheer.
The Rink carries deep meaning for Detroiters. It offers more than an activity; it provides a space where people come together to create shared moments. From young children stepping onto the ice for the first time to adults reliving cherished memories, it serves as a reminder of the joy found in community spaces. The Rink symbolizes the pride Detroiters have in the places that bring them closer.
This holiday season, Detroiters also have an opportunity to elevate The Rink’s profile. It is a contender in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Ice Skating Rink. Votes can be cast daily at 10best.usatoday.com until noon on December 9. Supporting The Rink through voting highlights its value as a space for connection and celebration.
The Rink has become a beloved institution. It invites people from all over to experience Detroit’s unique holiday traditions. It creates an inclusive environment where skaters and spectators alike can share in the season’s magic. It represents the importance of gathering spaces that inspire joy, connection, and belonging.
“The Rink at Campus Martius Park is one of the nation’s most iconic and scenic skating experiences, drawing visitors from across the region to celebrate the holiday and winter seasons,” said David Cowan, chief public spaces officer with the Downtown Detroit Partnership. “This year, The Rink will once again open with a fun-filled weekend on the Saturday following the Detroit Tree Lighting. For the first time, guests can also enjoy a two-story glass chalet, a heated lounge with stunning views overlooking The Rink, Detroit’s Christmas tree and cityscape. Plan to spend the day downtown and take in Detroit’s festive lights, bustling winter markets, family-friendly activities, live entertainment and incredible dining spots. It’s the ultimate winter experience for everyone.”
Planning a visit is simple. Details on pricing and schedules are available at downtowndetroit.org. Whether skating for the first time or returning for a tradition, The Rink offers an experience that speaks to the heart of Detroit. This season, the space continues to welcome all who seek moments of connection and holiday cheer.
The ice rink’s significance extends beyond its physical space. It reflects the creativity, unity, and resilience that define Detroit. It reminds the community of the power found in gathering together. Each season, it fosters joy and creates opportunities for Detroiters to feel pride in their city.
As November 23 nears, anticipation grows for the skating season ahead. Families plan their outings. Friends organize meet-ups. Excitement builds as Detroit prepares to embrace another year of traditions at The Rink. This season brings an opportunity to celebrate, connect, and share the warmth of the holiday spirit.
The Rink represents more than an ice skating destination. It embodies the strength and creativity that Detroit is known for. Each visit reinforces the importance of spaces where people can come together to share in moments of happiness and togetherness. Supporting it ensures that these traditions continue for generations.
This year’s voting opportunity invites Detroiters to show their pride on a national stage. Recognizing The Rink through USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards is a chance to honor its role as a central part of the city’s holiday season. Every vote celebrates the joy and memories that The Rink brings to the community.
The Rink at Campus Martius Park opens its doors to another season of laughter and connection. Skaters and visitors alike will find a space that welcomes them into the heart of Detroit’s holiday traditions. This year’s celebration is a testament to the power of shared moments and the resilience of the community that calls Detroit home.
The opening weekend on November 23 and 24 is set to create unforgettable memories. Visit downtowndetroit.org for information on how to take part in this cherished experience. Detroiters can lace up their skates, embrace the season, and celebrate the spaces that make their city shine.