While it seems like Fall has just begun – an iconic winter activity in New York City has just opened for another season of fun! The world famous Rink at Rockefeller Center opened today for its 80th Anniversary Season.
The Rink was in good company to celebrate this amazing anniversary feat. From performances to guest appearances, Today Show coverage, and amazing future Olympians — it was an incredible occasion fit for an 80th anniversary celebration.
Olympic medalist Sasha Cohen hosted the festivities, and lead the first skate of the season while child skaters from Ice Theater of New York and Figure Skating in Harlem joined in.
The Today Show cast joined on the ice and took in a skate lesson first hand from Sasha and friends.
Tamron Hall and Carson Daly taking a lap around the famous rink!
After the first skate took place – A trio of figure skaters from Ice Dance International paid tribute to The Rink’s 80th anniversary by preforming “The Three Smokers.” The piece was originally commissioned by Ice Theater of New York and choreographed by famed NYC Ballet choreographer Edward Villella, who was on hand for the festivities (and was also celebrating his 80th Birthday!).
Such an incredible performance!
After the performance, Olympic Medalist Sasha Cohen joined choreographer Edward Villella on the ice to officially cut the opening ribbon for the season….
…to the cheers of an onlooking audience. The rink is open!
The ceremony ended with the Olympians of tomorrow linking hands – forming an 8 and a 0 in the center of the rink. Such a beautiful experience!
Striking a silly pose!
The Anniversary celebration continues through The Rink’s Skate House – where pictures from the last 80 years and historical timelines beautifully line the walls.
The Rink will also play Billboard #1 songs from the last 80 years while guests skate for a full immersive experience. Here – sign posted in the Skate House with the top hts of 1936!
Beyond the rink- the surrounding restaurants will pay tribute to its opening year with nostalgic touches from menu offerings, music and decor.
While in the rental area I decided to grab some skates too. Can’t leave this famous rink without a twirl around the ice or two!
The twirl around was rewarded with this incredible view.
A look through the ice sculpture for a behind the scenes view.
Loved getting up close with Prometheus, the famous 18-foot-tall, eight-ton, gilded cast bronze sculpture that was created by Paul Manship in 1934. The sculpture has been in the background of countless concerts, tree lighting celebrations, skating shows and special events. It is said that it is the most recognizable statue in New York City, behind the Statue of Liberty. To see it up close was incredible!
A huge Thank You to The Rink at Rockefeller Center for having me – cheers to an amazing anniversary!
The Rink at Rockefeller Center – NOW OPEN
600 5th Ave (between 49th and 50th Streets) New York, NY
Admission:
Adult General Admission: $25, Holidays $27, Peak $32
Children under 11 and seniors $15
Skate Rental $12
Skate Lessons $50
