Huntsville, Ala. – The Huntsville Museum of Art (HMA) and presenting sponsor Redstone Federal Credit Union are excited to announce the Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening of the Seventh Annual Skating in the Park.

The outdoor ice skating rink will officially open at 4 p.m. on Friday, November 16th, with special remarks from Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle and a special appearance by the Snow Sisters – Anna and Elsa – beginning at 3:45 p.m.  Free popcorn and hot chocolate will be served for the first hour and the first 25 skaters will receive free admission passes to the Museum, as well as being entered into a drawing for a free family membership to the Museum.

Skating in the Park was created by the Huntsville Museum of Art’s Foundation Board and since its inception, this unique holiday tradition has quickly grown into one of the largest fundraisers for the Museum.

“We are very proud to open for our seventh season,” said Laurie Heard, HMA Foundation Board President. “This event is a major collaborative effort between the City of Huntsville, our generous sponsors and the Museum Board and Staff. We thank everyone who has helped make this a tradition in our community.”

Heard continued, “This yearly holiday tradition creates a magical experience for all to enjoy and we hope everyone in the community comes out 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. Rink hours change at different points of the season and can be found at hsvmuseum.org.  Admission: $15 ages 10 and up; $10 ages 9 and under; $13 for groups of 10 or more; and $5 scooter rental.  There is a $5 discount for those who bring their own skates.

“The Museum is the place to visit during the holiday season,” remarked Christopher Madkour, HMA Executive Director.  “Make your plans now to visit the Museum Store for your holiday shopping, view the renowned

Louis Comfort Tiffany exhibit that is currently on display, and of course – lace up your skates and hit the ice with family and friends!”

After skating, visitors may come inside and warm up while viewing the Museum’s holiday exhibitions including: Louis Comfort Tiffany: Treasures from the Driehaus Collection, Encounters: Denise Stewart-Sanabria, People, Places & Things and much more.

Visitors who show their skating wristbands may take advantage of a 20% discount at the Museum Store.  Pane e Vino will also have specials for guests with Skating in the Park wristbands.  For more information, visit hsvmuseum.org.

To stay updated on all Skating in the Park events and any weather related closings or delays, be sure to follow the Facebook page @SkatingInThePark.

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About the Huntsville Museum of Art

The Huntsville Museum of Art is a nonprofit municipal corporation established by the City of Huntsville, Alabama, and governed by a city appointed Museum Board.  The Museum seeks to foster understanding of the visual arts and appreciation of artistic achievement. In addition to its galleries and exhibitions, the Museum offers art classes for children and adults along with special programs, lectures and musical presentations. Rental space is also available for weddings, meetings and other events.

 About the Foundation Board at the Huntsville Museum of Art

The mission of the Foundation Board at the Huntsville Museum of Art is to secure resources necessary to expand the Museum’s influence, presence and permanence in the community. The Foundation Board has now brought Skating in the Park to Huntsville for seven consecutive years. The 25 voting member board keeps abreast of all the Museum activities, exhibitions and events. Additionally, the Foundation Board sponsors several opening exhibition receptions during the year.