From the UWS Balloon Inflation and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to volunteering and Thanksgiving feasts, there are tons of tried and true traditions we look forward to during the holiday season–and, as it turns out, one of America’s most beloved Thanksgiving traditions can be done right here in NYC!
The team over at Mixbook surveyed 3,000 people to find out what traditions people would most like to experience this Thanksgiving season, and coming in at the eighth spot was ice skating at Central Park!
The study reads:
Ice skating at Central Park during Thanksgiving is a quintessential American experience that many families dream of. As the autumn leaves of Central Park transform into a rich mix of golds and reds, the famous Wollman Rink becomes a hub of activity, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline and the park’s serene landscapes. For many, gliding on the ice with the crisp November air against their cheeks, surrounded by the iconic imagery of Central Park, captures the essence of the holiday season. It’s not just about the act of skating; it’s about the ambience—the soft hum of conversation, the laughter of children, and the distant melodies of street performers—all set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most iconic urban parks.
Located at 59th Street and 6th Avenue within Central Park, New Yorkers and tourists alike have been enjoying ice skating on Wollman Rink for decades–it’s been around since 1949. Offering private sessions and classes like figure skating and ice dance, it didn’t take long for the rink to solidify itself as a beloved NYC activity
Ice skating in Central Park even ranked higher than heading to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which also made the list at the #13 spot!
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will return for its 97th anniversary this year on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 23rd, welcoming back its signature mix of giant character helium balloons, fantastic floats, marching bands, performance groups, celebrities, clowns, and of course, Santa Claus.
Time to go lace up our skates, we’ll see you at the rink!
The full study can be found here.