5 outdoor ice rinks in Alabama you need to check out this holiday season

If you’re like me, there’s one thing that’ll make you brave the Alabama cold: ice skating. There’s something magical about bundling up in long coats and warm socks, grabbing hot chocolate and skating around under the stars (even if it means falling a few times).

Here are five outdoor ice rinks in Alabama where you can enjoy the holiday spirit this fall and winter.

1. Holidays on the Plaza—Tuscaloosa

Each year, the City of Tuscaloosa welcomes crowds of skaters to Government Plaza for Holidays on the Plaza. In addition to outdoor skating, the festivities include the glittering Tinsel Trail benefitting Tuscaloosa’s One Place.

• When: November 24-January 15
• Where: Government Plaza, 618 21st Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
• More Info

2. Sand Mountain Skate—Albertville

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Ever wanted to skate inside an amphitheater? Here’s your chance. Sand Mountain Skate is back this year, bringing a beautiful ice rink to Albertville. Plus, they have amazing food and drink on-site, and you can even book private events there!

• When: November 18-January 13 (full schedule)
• Where: Sand Mountain Park + Amphitheater, S.M.P.A. Blvd, Albertville, AL 35950
• More Info

3. Skating in the Park—Huntsville

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Now in its eleventh season, Skating in the Park has become a Huntsville holiday tradition. Planted in the heart of downtown Huntsville’s Big Spring Park, this ice rink is always filled with smiling faces, holiday music and twinkling lights.

• When: November 17-January 2 (full schedule)
• Where: Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church St SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
• More Info

4. Downtown Holiday Ice Skating—Auburn

Downtown Auburn is going to get a bit brighter starting December 15 with the City’s over-1,000-square-foot ice rink. Be sure to stop by downtown’s adorable shops and restaurants while you’re there.

• When: December 15-31 (full schedule)
• Where: Gay Street Parking Lot
• More Info

5. Christmas on the Coosa—Gadsden

Each day December 2-23, Christmas on the Coosa’s will host vendors, skaters, crafters, food trucks and more for a holiday celebration by the beautiful Coosa River. At the Polar Bear Club, visitors will find life-size polar bear statues (for some great Instagram photos), and special guests like the Grinch and Santa will make appearances.

• When: December 2-23
• Where: 344 S 1st St, Gadsden, AL 35901
• More Info

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