Huntsville, Ala. – The Huntsville Museum of Art and Redstone Federal Credit Union open Skating in the Park for its fifth consecutive year. The outdoor ice skating rink officially opened at 4 p.m. on Friday, November 18, with a ribbon cutting that included remarks from Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle and Museum representatives, while Ava’s One Wish characters from the Huntsville Skating School & Training Academy shared the ice with the first skaters of the season.

“Skating in the Park has become a holiday tradition for our families, and we are delighted the rink will return for another season,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “There aren’t many places in Alabama where you can enjoy some winter magic while wearing short sleeves.”

Skating in the Park was created by the Huntsville Museum of Art’s Foundation Board and over the last five years this unique holiday tradition has grown into one of the largest fundraisers for the Museum.

“What an ideal opportunity for all to enjoy by coming to the Huntsville Museum of Art to celebrate the holidays with family and friends,” said Christopher Madkour, Executive Director of the Huntsville Museum of Art. “This yearly holiday tradition creates a magical experience for all to enjoy and we hope everyone in the community comes out this season to join us at Skating in the Park!”

Located directly behind the Huntsville Museum of Art in Big Spring Park, Skating in the Park will be open seven days a week, including holidays. Monday Thursday 4 p.m. 10 p.m.; Friday 4 p.m. midnight; Saturday 10 a.m. midnight; and Sunday noon 8 p.m. Admission: $10 ages 9 and up; $5 ages 8 and under; $8 for groups of 10 or more; $3 skate rental and $5 scooter rental.

“We are very proud to open for our fifth season,” said Kerry Doran, Huntsville Museum of Art’s Foundation Board President. “This program is a major collaborative effort between the City of Huntsville, our wonderful sponsors and the Museum Board and Staff. We thank everyone who has helped make this a tradition in our community. During the holidays, it is wonderful to see all ages and all levels of skaters (even a skating Santa!) come together on ice at the Museum.”

After skating, visitors may come inside and warm up while viewing the Museum’s holiday exhibitions including: What’s Up, Doc? The Animation Art of Chuck Jones; The Way We Were: American Paintings from the Betsy and Peter Lowe Collections and much more.  Visitors who show their skating wristbands may take advantage of a 20% discount at the Museum Store.  For more information, visit www.HSVMuseum.org.

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