Bermuda’s warm climate won’t stop it from boasting an outdoor ice skating rink this winter, with the project set to offer a seasonal activity typically not available to the island.
With the use of synthetic ice, Planning Factory Bermuda will open the rink next month in St. George’s, with the public invited to take advantage of the unique opportunity from November 26 until January 1 at Somers Garden.
The rink will feature not only skating, but also festive music, lighting, and vendors offering snacks and drinks, adding to the seasonal atmosphere.
“We wanted to bring a new event to St. George’s, something that had never been done before, that would be of high interest and that everyone could enjoy,” said Cher Przelomski, Vice President of Planning Factory Bermuda.
“Since launching our event management company here eight years ago, we concentrated on corporate events and meetings. However, we always hoped to bring a community event to the island. Before now the timing has never been exactly right, but we’re grateful St. George Skates has been something both the community and sponsors have been quick to embrace.”
Kathyrn Massa, the CEO of Planning Factory Bermuda, said they were “thrilled” to welcome RUBiS and Bermuda Gas as their Presenting Sponsors for the next two years. “Their generous support is making the skating rink possible,” Ms. Massa said.
“The Bermuda Tourism Authority has also seen the potential in an event like this to engage tourists during the slower off season months and warmly offered their backing. Overall, we see this as an all-inclusive event for Bermudians and tourists to enjoy and are working to add more sponsors who see the value in our efforts and their sponsorship benefits.”
Graham Redford, Managing Director of RUBiS, which is sponsoring the endeavor, said, “RUBiS is known for being an innovative company. As this event is something new and exciting for Bermuda, it aligns perfectly with our company culture and philosophy.
“On top of that we are always keen to support anything that helps stimulate business in St George’s. We are looking forward to seeing residents get out there on the ice and enjoy something they ordinarily might not be able to.”
St. George Skates was inspired last year by a conversation with Ray Lambert, the Economic Development Officer in St. George. He felt it would be great to have an ice rink on the island since he and Corporation of St. George, Bermuda’s oldest town, had already considered such an endeavour in the past.
Until the week of Christmas, the rink will be open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and closed during the week. After December 20, it will be open from Tuesday to Sunday – with the exception of Christmas and Boxing Day. On New Year’s Eve the rink will be available to skaters until 11pm. See the website for exact scheduling details.
An hour of skating, including transition on and off the ice, costs $20 per person, including skates; however, with a $5 discount coupon per person obtained at any RUBIS gas station, the entrance fee will be discounted to $15.
The company said, “Skates from Children’s size 8/9, all the way up to Men’s 13 will be offered. In addition, if anyone has skates of their own they are welcome to bring those to the rink in order to test their skills on the ice or learn to skate.”
For more information, visit the website.
