Central Park’s Wollman Rink has joined Bryant Park’s ice rink in opening early for the season — and actually, it has opened even earlier than the Winter Village, as it officially opened for the season on Sunday, October 23.
As we announced a few weeks earlier, the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park will open on Friday, October 28.
Located at 59th Street and 6th Avenue, within Central Park, Wollman Rink has been around since 1949! Though it was formerly operated by the Trump Organization, the city terminated all contracts with them last year.
As of last November, the rink it is being managed by the newly established Wollman Park Partners LLC (WPP), who will be operating the rink for the next five years. The new operators feel strongly about reinvesting in the community and making sure the rink is a welcoming place for all, which includes (as shared in a press release):
- Not seeking or accepting any of the profit from operating Wollman Rink NYC. Any net proceeds generated during the concession term will be reinvested in the facility, and through community partners providing services at Wollman Rink NYC
- Introducing skating to a more diverse audience, particularly children and families from underserved and marginalized communities
- Offering a platform for members to enjoy and experience an iconic institution that they might not have been able to otherwise
Some wonderful reconstructions and renovations — including the Wollman Café — were unveiled last year, and could be seen at the amazing roller DiscOasis the rink turned into over the summer (though it closed for the season on October 2).
Now, the ice season has returned as of October 23. Those who visited on opening day were able to take advantage of free skating (including skate rental) for that first day, in addition to entertaining programming showcasing professional skaters, Broadway performers and local DJs. Starting October 24 through March 15, ticketed entry will resume as per usual. Wollman Rink will also offer private sessions and classes like figure skating and ice dance, and offer season passes (more to come on that soon).
New to patrons this year will be monthly releases of free skating admission tickets starting November 1st, thanks to Culture Pass distributing free ‘WRAP’ tickets to New Yorkers, mostly in underserved communities. A New York City Library or idNYC card will grant skaters an on-site WRAP package for discounted entry at the box office, operating on a first come first served basis.
It appears Wollman Rink will be open for the same hours as last year: 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays; 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Wednesdays through Thursdays; 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays. And reservations are already open!
All are welcome to hit the ice for $15 for adults off-peak & $25 during peak hours, and skates will be available to rent as well! Find out more info on their website here.
Also published on Medium.