It's officially the most wonderful time of the year.
That's because the ice skating rink at Millennium Park opened for the season on Friday, kicking off the holidays with special performances.
Professional skating group American Ice Theatre Chicago, as well as the Starlights Synchronized Skating Teams, will take the ice for the opening program, according to the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
"Millennium Park Campus is a magical place to be during the holidays and throughout the winter months," DCASE Commissioner Mark Kelly said in a statement. "Visitors and residents are invited to make memories with family and friends while ice skating, celebrating, singing and experiencing the heart of Chicago’s cultural scene."
The park will offer free skating lessons for all ages and skill levels beginning at 11 a.m. on Fridays and at 9 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as daily at 9 a.m. from Dec. 21 through Jan. 5 (except on Christmas and New Year's Day) for school winter break. Lessons will also be offered at 9 a.m. on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and President’s Day.
Every first and third Thursday of the month beginning in December, the rink will have DJs playing music from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for everyone skating.
Skating is free and open to the public. Skate rentals are available for $13 from Monday to Thursday and for $15 Friday through Sunday as well as on holidays. The rink is open through March 8.
