Credit: Hilltop Sports

Public skating is making a comeback at St. George’s Ice Rink, thanks to a new initiative by Hilltop Sports.

In an email to What’sUpNewp on Wednesday, December 18, Chris Simon, a representative from Hilltop Sports, announced the return of public skating sessions after years of absence.

“This is the first time in years St George’s has offered public skating,” Simon says. The company, which currently provides skate sharpening and concessions at the rink, is spearheading the effort to bring this winter activity back to the community.

The public skating schedule includes seven dates between December and March, with each session running from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Graphic provided by Hilltop Sports

Admission for the two-hour sessions is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12, with fees and taxes included in the price. Hilltop Sports is limiting each session to 200 participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all skaters.

Simon emphasizes the importance of proper attire for the skating sessions. While no formal lessons are offered during public skate times, the rink provides amenities to enhance the experience.

“Concessions and skate sharpening will be available,” Simon notes. However, participants are required to bring their own skates.

Parking at the venue is limited, and Hilltop Sports encourages attendees to consider drop-off options when possible. The company has set up online registration, but skaters can also pay at the door.

In addition to the regular public skating sessions, Hilltop Sports is organizing a special “Christmas Sweater Skate” event on Dec. 22 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Participants wearing Christmas sweaters will receive a free bag of popcorn, and Christmas music will play throughout the event.

Graphic provided by Hilltop Sports

Participants are reminded that by paying for the event, they agree to all terms and conditions set by Hilltop Sports. The company reserves the right to deny or remove any participant without questions or refunds, ensuring a safe environment for all skaters.

For those interested in lacing up their skates and hitting the ice, more information and online registration are available at https://www.hilltopsports.org.

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...