The 2023 debut of the Winter Wonderland synthetic ice rink was welcomed warmly by the Bridgeport community. It’s back for this winter season. Located in the tennis courts by Bridgeport Pool, the rink opens 6-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15. Thereafter, the rink will be open 4-8 p.m. Saturdays. Reservations are not being taken. Rates – $5 for those under 17 and $10 for adults (cash or credit card) – include skate rental and one hour of skating.
Having learned from the first year, organizers have implemented some changes – and exciting additions.
“The community was super excited, and the turnout was great for the beginning of the (2023) season,” said Madolyn Mallory, marketing coordinator for The Bridge Sports Complex. “It tapered off after New Year’s, so this year we are introducing group rates, private rentals, and special events.”
The first special event will be “Santa Skate” and will include complimentary hot cocoa and the opportunity to take your picture with Santa. There will not be a professional photographer on site, but community members are welcome to take their own photos. The event is slated for 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15.
Skate sizes available are children’s size 8 through men’s size 13.
Group rates are available and private rentals are available 2-4 p,m. Saturdays. For more information, email jwiant@thebridgewv.com.
This year’s Winter Wonderland also features a toy and clothing drive. New, unwrapped items for ages birth through 17 will be collected at the ice rink, as well as Citynet Center at The Bridge. The drive runs from Nov 15 through Dec. 14 and all items will be distributed to local children in need.
“We talked about a tree like at the mall where ‘you get a specific child, but decided a toy and clothing drive would be able to reach more kids,” said Mallory who is spearheading the drive. “We haven’t finalized where we will be donating them yet because we’re hoping to get such a big turnout that we can split it among multiple communities beyond just Bridgeport, and possibly beyond just Harrison County.”
For more information about the drive, contact mmallory@thebridgewv.com.
The popularity of Winter Wonderland is expected to continue this winter
.
“We’re excited about the ice rink because it is something different from what we usually do, and there’s nothing else like it in Bridgeport,” Mallory said.
Editor’s Note: Pictured top are people enjoying the rink in 2023. (Photo by Joe LaRocca). Also pictured are employees of The Bridge Sports Complex and Bridgeport Parks and Recreation prepping for the 2024 season.