It took some effort and coordination to put it together – the crew worked all day on Friday pounding the plastic sheets into place and erecting the barriers — but when it was finished it was an ice rink.
Although there is actually no ice, it’s going to be a place to skate right here in Gettysburg.
The rink was assembled from a kit made by XTraice Rinks. The synthetic ice is made of polyethylene with a very high molecular density. The ice is self-lubricating, offering a gliding level that has almost the same speed as real ice. The ice has been used around the world, even by the Detroit Red Wings hockey team.
Because the synthetic ice uses no water, no refrigeration, and requires no maintenance, it provides an environmentally-friendly skating environment.
According to XTraice, synthetic ice is also softer, resulting in fewer injuries.
The rink is located off Steinwehr Avenue between McDonald’s and the KFC, south of town.
The rink will be open to the public from November 22 to January 5.
Skating is $5 per hour per person, with skates available at no extra cost. Or you can bring your own skates. Both figure and hockey skates are allowed.
Hours are M-Th: 3-7; F: 3-8; Sa and Su: 1-8
The rink will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day from 12-7 but will be closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
The Gettysburg Area Recreation Authority (GARA) is responsible for operating the rink.
Charles (Chuck) Stangor is Gettysburg Connection's Owner, Publisher, and Editor in Chief. I would like to hear from you. Please contact me at cstangor@gettysburgconnection.org.