A local winter tradition celebrates 20 years

Written by MARLO FONG

Every winter, Walnut Creek Civic Park transforms into a magical winter wonderland, complete with a family-friendly outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy seating areas around multiple fire pits and the Bay Area’s only outdoor ice slide. Decorated with snowflakes, Christmas trees and penguins, the holiday tradition sits in the middle of downtown Walnut Creek. 

This year, Walnut Creek on Ice is celebrating their 20th anniversary. First debuted in Civic Park in 2005, the seasonal ice rink has since become the most popular winter activity for the Walnut Creek community.

Today, the rink offers more than just ice skating. Activities include hockey every Sunday through Thursday at 9:00 P.M. for $20 (skates and hockey equipment not included). For adults and young ones, there are skate and hockey programs for those who want to further their skills. Additional information and special holiday events can be found on the Walnut Creek on Ice website. For many residents of Walnut Creek and the Bay Area, Walnut Creek on Ice has become a recurring visit throughout the holiday season.

For one junior at Las Lomas, Keaton Freed, skating at the rink is nearly a weekly activity throughout the winter season. “Most of the time I go at night so it’s not packed,” said Freed. “It’s just easier to skate around with my friends when there aren’t a ton of people everywhere. I’ve also been going since I was little, so I kinda just grew up with it.” Freed has made going to Walnut Creek on Ice an annual holiday tradition, as do many residents in Walnut Creek. 

Another recurring visitor, junior Sofie Saint-Pierre, described her favorite rink memory. “Drinking hot cocoa with my friends and skating around and just having a lot of fun, especially when a lot of my classmates were there, it was a very fun time,” said Saint-Pierre. For Saint-Pierre, the rink was a place to hang out, enjoy the holiday atmosphere and spend time with friends outside of school. For many students, the rink is a casual, welcoming place to relax and spend time together, offering a simple break from routine and a chance to be with friends. 

From skating with friends and family to enjoying the festive lights and music, Walnut Creek on Ice offers an accessible way for students and the community to embrace the season. If you plan to visit, try going on weekday afternoons for shorter lines, and consider booking tickets online to secure your spot. With its welcoming atmosphere, variety of activities and lasting impact on the community, the rink continues to create memorable winter experiences for everyone who steps onto the ice. Whether you are a seasoned skater or trying it for the first time, there is something for everyone to enjoy.