Minneapolis

Free Family Ice Skating Event with Bonfire and Hot Cocoa Hosted by Saint Paul Parks and Recreation

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Published on January 22, 2026
Free Family Ice Skating Event with Bonfire and Hot Cocoa Hosted by Saint Paul Parks and RecreationSource: Unsplash / Jim Luo

For those looking for a chill way to slide into the weekend, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is hosting a free ice skating family party at the Palace on January 31. In a social media update that is anything but cold, the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation spread the word: "Enjoy a fun Saturday afternoon of ice skating at Palace on Saturday, January 31 from 11am-12:30pm." Known for its community events, the department ensures that cost won't freeze anyone out of this gathering.

Gathering your family and friends for this event might just prove to be the perfect way to break the ice on a frosty winter day. The Saint Paul Parks and Recreation has promised to provide "a bonfire and hot cocoa," ensuring that guests are kept warm as they partake in the festivities. Be prepared to bring your own skates or winter boots from home, since rentals are not part of the deal. It's a fun opportunity to swiftly glide—or in my case, probably to somewhat clumsily slide—across the ice.

Set against the backdrop of the Palace, a popular spot for winter activities, this event is about more than just ice skating. It's about building community and making warm memories in the midst of a chilly season. Hot cocoa is there to thaw out the chill, and the bonfire to provide a cozy place for laughs and conversation. Let's face it, activities like these are what make enduring the long winter months a tad more bearable.

For those who are new to ice skating, don't worry about having to perfectly balance on the ice right away. The entire event is family-friendly, welcoming everyone from seasoned skaters to rookies who are just looking to give it a try. And if you've been secretly dreaming about an excuse to finally get to non-aggressively show off your triple axle, here's your chance. With the community spirit high and costs low, there's no reason not to join in the fun and to quickly fall in love with this quintessential winter sport.

Mark your calendars, bundle up, and brace for a stellar Saturday skate session. The Saint Paul Parks and Recreation department is ready to welcome you with open arms and hot drinks. Don't forget to check out the original post from the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Facebook page for more details. The event, as they tell us, "is free; we'll provide a bonfire and hot cocoa, while you bring your skates or winter boots from home!"