Ice rink grand opening celebration on Nov. 9 kicks off festive season.
Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM, Inc.) brings the holidays to the downtown district with a wide array of festive offerings as part of its holiday programming, including the grand opening of the Ice at Santa Monica, presented by Netflix skating rink, produced in partnership with Los Angeles-based Willy Bietak Productions. The beloved ice rink will once again transform the corner of Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue into a winter wonderland, bringing a touch of holiday magic to the beachside community. The rink opens on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 and will be open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays, and from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through Monday, January 15, 2024, alongside a lineup of other exciting holiday events throughout the downtown district. In addition to regular hours, the rink will offer extended hours from December 15 to December 30, open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
This year’s ice rink offerings promise an even more enhanced experience, with special treats and concessions provided by local favorites, Ugo Trattoria and Stefano’s Pizzeria, available for purchase, the opportunity to enjoy exclusive rink-side fire pit experience with artisan s’mores kits by S’moreology, private party tent rentals plus a diverse lineup of special events and themed skate nights. Admission is $22 for a 60-minute session, which includes skate rental. For more information on Ice at Santa Monica, tickets and party rentals, visit iceatsantamonica.com or call 310-807-4822.
Ice at Santa Monica, Presented by Netflix Highlights:
Grand Opening Celebration
Thursday, November 9 | 5 to 8 p.m.
The official grand opening of Ice at Santa Monica, presented by Netflix, takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 9. The evening promises an enchanting atmosphere under the starlit Santa Monica sky, offering free ice skating after the ceremony during the 5:30 and 7 p.m. skate sessions. Guests can groove to the coolest beats spun by a talented DJ while enjoying on-ice entertainers who will add a touch of magic to the skating experience.
Wednesdays on Ice
Every Wednesday from November 15 through January 10 | 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. sessions
Ice at Santa Monica, presented by Netflix, invites guests to join Wednesdays on Ice themed skate nights during the 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. sessions throughout the season. For more information on each themed night, visit iceatsantamonica.com.
Themes:
Nov. 15 | ABBA Disco Night
Nov. 22 | PRIDE Night
Nov. 29 |Holiday Pet Pageant
Dec. 6 | Ugly Holiday Sweater
Dec. 13 | Taylor’s Birthday
Dec. 20 | ¡Y soy Rebelde!
Dec. 27 | SaMo Night
Jan. 3 | Beyhive Ball
Jan. 10 | K-POP Party
Other Holiday Programming:
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, November 16 | 6 p.m.
Downtown Santa Monica transforms with festive lights and decorations adorning the Third Street Promenade, 2nd and 4th Streets for the holiday season. Santa will make a special appearance for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, where he will illuminate the official City of Santa Monica holiday tree (located on the 1300 block of Third Street Promenade between Santa Monica Blvd and Arizona ) along with live entertainment from Westside Ballet, Samohi Choir and Lincoln Middle School’s Madrigals.
Holiday Conscious Market
Saturday, December 2 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Downtown Santa Monica will host the Holiday Conscious Market on the Third Street Promenade. This artisanal pop-up market features over 40 local vendors with a focus on elevated and sustainable brands, offering an excellent opportunity for guests to shop for unique holiday gifts while supporting local businesses.
Hanukkah in Santa Monica
Thursday, December 7 through Thursday, December 14 | Sundown
Celebrate the Festival of Lights during the Hanukkah season with nightly menorah lightings on the 1400 block of Third Street Promenade (located between Santa Monica Blvd and Broadway). The lighting ceremonies will begin at sundown. The final lighting ceremony will take place at the ice rink.
Ring in the New Year: East Coast Countdown Celebration
Sunday, December 31| 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Ring in the New Year with a family-friendly East Coast Countdown Celebration. Ice at Santa Monica, presented by Netflix, invites guests to join in a heartwarming and unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration tailored for families and kids of all ages. Experience ice skating under the stars, indulge in delicious food and drinks and join in the excitement of a countdown to midnight (East Coast time).
For more information on holiday happenings in Downtown Santa Monica, visit downtownsm.com.
