CHRISTMAS revellers have been getting their skates on and enjoying a huge pop-up ice skating rink in Colchester.
After its success in bringing festive cheer last year, the rink outside Firstsite art gallery, in Lewis Gardens, has returned.
It follows the success of the Art Fund Museum of the Year’s first outdoor skating rink in 2020, and it now boasts a bigger and better version this year.
Covering 200 square metres, the new rink features a specially designed surface used by professional skaters, which will allow users to glide around like a true star of Dancing on Ice.
It sits next to Firstsite’s newly-refurbished café which has a balcony from where onlookers can enjoy refreshments from an ideal vantage point.
Firstsite director Sally Shaw said: “Christmas is all about having fun with your friends and family but, after another tough year, the need to make the most of the festive season has possibly never been more important.
“That’s why we’ve brought a bigger and better rink to Firstsite, putting a smile on your face with Background Bob and providing a chance to explore all aspects of creativity and its benefits with Life with Art.
“Plus our café will have loads of delicious and warming treats to enjoy over the festive period.
“Our new Sculpture at Firstsite also means everyone can enjoy some incredible artworks in the fresh air and at any time of day.
“Skaters attending our later time slots, or visitors who come to Firstsite after dark, also have the wonderful opportunity of seeing these artworks lit up against the night’s sky, which creates a really magical feel to Firstsite’s outdoor area, and a wonderful way to end your day out at Firstsite.”
The pop-up rink in 2020 proved a hit for residents during what was a thin Christmas calendar amid on and off Government Covid-19 restrictions.
Each skating session lasts 45 minutes and is priced from £13 for adults and £6.50 for children under 14-years-old.
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