Submitted by Tacoma Art Museum
Tacoma’s only open-air ice skating rink is back for a seven-week run at Tollefson Plaza thanks to presenting sponsor CHI Franciscan Health and organizing partner Tacoma Art Museum (TAM). New this year and bringing more action to the rink, TAM welcomes additional operating partner Metro Parks Tacoma.
The seasonal excitement begins with an opening celebration on November 21, 2015, and continues through January 10, 2016. Hours of operation, costs, and a full schedule of events will be posted in mid-October at www.PolarPlaza.com.
“CHI Franciscan Health has been proud to partner with the Tacoma Art Museum for the last five years in sponsoring Polar Plaza,” said Dianna Kielian, Vice President of Mission with CHI Franciscan Health. “The rink provides local families with a fun, healthy way to be active together. We hope everyone will come out this year and experience all the activities Polar Plaza has to offer.”
The rink welcomes all ages. Those new to ice skating can gain confidence by using double-bladed skates or skate aids (a walker for use on the ice) for stability. Ice skating downtown makes for a lively daytime activity; combine with a visit to Tacoma’s museums, shops, and restaurants clustered near Pacific Avenue for even more fun. Evening skaters can enjoy twinkling city lights and crisp night air.
Samantha Kelly, TAM’s Director of Education, is pleased to see the rink return. “Exercising helps open our minds to new creative potential and expanded cognitive abilities, and makes us feel better overall. The rink is a great way to teach children the benefits of an active lifestyle. TAM’s mission is connecting people through art, and with CHI Franciscan Polar Plaza, we also get to connect people through sport. We welcome skaters to stop by TAM and stretch their creative skills in the free TAM Studio, too.”
With their year-round activities and classes, Metro Parks is a natural fit to partner in the ice rink. “Polar Plaza is quickly becoming a winter tradition in downtown Tacoma. We are excited to partner with TAM and CHI Franciscan Health to help provide an even greater experience for the community,” added Dave Lewis, the Director of Recreation & Community Services for Metro Parks Tacoma. “We’ll bring new events and activities to add to the vibrancy and excitement.”
