Minneapolis Ice Rinks Set to Open for Winter Break
Great news for Minneapolis residents! After the first significant snowfall of the season, the Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Board (MPRB) has announced plans to open all city-operated ice rinks in time for many students’ winter break. This comes after past seasons faced challenges, and the community is eager for winter fun.
A Rocky Past: Rink Closures and Climate Concerns
The journey to fully open rinks hasn’t always been smooth. In 2023, Minneapolis faced significant hurdles when all 22 outdoor rinks had to close just eight days after opening due to unseasonably warm conditions. This abbreviated season cost the city nearly $888,000, leading to a proposal in 2024 to permanently close five rinks.
The MPRB cited a lack of funding, “uncertain climate fluctuations,” warming room rental costs, and inflation as key reasons for these proposed closures. While public input led to most of the proposed rinks remaining open, Windom park’s rink was ultimately closed.
This Winter: 44 Rinks Across 22 Parks!
Despite previous challenges, the MPRB is coming back strong for the current winter season. Officials have confirmed plans to open 44 outdoor ice rinks spread across 22 different city parks. The goal is to have these rinks ready for skating by December 22, coinciding with the start of Minneapolis Public Schools’ Winter Break, assuming Mother Nature cooperates with favorable conditions.
These rinks, along with their neighboring warming rooms, will be free for public use and are expected to remain open until at least 9 p.m. It’s a massive, coordinated effort by dedicated park staff to construct and maintain these facilities for the community.
Adapting to Change: Powderhorn and Webber Return
In a notable adaptation, Powderhorn and Webber parks, which were part of the previous closure discussions, will see their rinks return this season. However, in a strategic move to combat unpredictable ice conditions, these particular rinks will be built on land rather than on Powderhorn Lake or Webber Pool. This innovative approach aims to provide more consistent and reliable skating opportunities despite climate uncertainties.
Understanding the Rink Changes
To clarify the recent changes and the current status of some key rinks, here’s a brief comparison:
| Park Name | 2024 Status (Proposed) | 2025 Status (Confirmed) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lyndale Farmstead | Proposed for permanent closure | Open | Reopened after public input. |
| Powderhorn | Proposed for permanent closure | Open | Rink built on land, not the lake. |
| Webber | Proposed for permanent closure | Open | Rink built on land, not the pool. |
| Matthews | Proposed for permanent closure | Open | Reopened after public input. |
| Windom | Proposed for permanent closure | Closed | The only one of the five to remain closed. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Minneapolis Ice Rinks
- When will the ice rinks open?
Crews hope to have rinks ready by December 22, 2025, to coincide with Minneapolis Public Schools’ Winter Break, weather permitting. - How many ice rinks will be open this winter?
The Minneapolis Parks & Recreation Board plans to open 44 outdoor ice rinks at 22 different city parks. - Is there a cost to use the rinks or warming rooms?
No, all rinks and neighboring warming rooms are free to use. - Where can I check the latest ice conditions?
You can find the latest information on ice conditions throughout the season at minneapolisparks.org/rinks. - Why were some rinks nearly closed in previous years?
Previous closures were attributed to low funding, high operational costs, and “uncertain climate fluctuations” that made maintaining natural ice difficult.
As Minneapolis embraces the colder weather, be sure to bundle up and take advantage of these fantastic, free community resources. Always check the ice conditions before heading out, and enjoy a quintessential Minnesota winter experience!
Minneapolis Ice Rinks Open For Winter Fun
