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After drawing hundreds of visitors to campus during the last holiday season, East Tennessee State University is preparing to once again open its synthetic ice-skating rink to the community.
The rink is located on the ETSU University Commons, adjacent to the D.P Culp Student Center.
Following ETSU’s annual holiday lights celebration on Monday, Nov. 13, the rink will be open for visitors. That evening, ETSU faculty, staff and students may skate for free with an ETSU ID. Members of the community are welcome to skate; rental rates are available on the skating website.
The grand opening celebration, Bucky’s Blizzard Block Party, will be Thursday, Nov. 16, from 5-9 p.m. This event is open to everyone and will include free skating for campus and community members, free food, giveaways and music.
“Last year the rink was positively received by our students and the community, so we are excited to be able to offer it again this year,” said Jeremy Ross, ETSU chief operating officer. “ETSU is a destination year-round, bringing visitors to our campus for arts performances, athletics events, academic pursuits and so much more. At this time of year, we encourage people to visit our campus and enjoy the holiday lights and activities on the University Commons.”
Admission for one hour of skating (including skate rental) is $6 for members of the community and $4 for those with a valid ETSU ID. There also will be skating aids available so that people of all abilities can enjoy the rink.
The 70-foot-long rink is made of Swiss-engineered synthetic ice that mimics the consistency of real ice. Skaters wear real ice skates to glide along its surface.
This year, the rink will be open on select dates through Dec. 17. For a complete list of days/times the rink is open, as well as rental rates, visit etsu.edu/skate. Group reservations are available.
From a lovely green space to the beautifully renovated D.P. Culp Student Center, ETSU has worked to make the campus experience an exceptional one.