Southport Visiter

Skating rink is n-ice way to celebrate

- BY ANDREW BROWN

IT’S fantastic to be back on the ice this Christmas! Ice Skating Southport has returned to Victoria Park for the second year in a row, bringing lots of excitement for families and people of all ages.

I went last year with my wife and two daughters (now 12 and seven years old), and we were really pleased to get the chance to enjoy it again.

Southport is becoming a really magical place for people to visit every Christmas with all the lights along Lord Street, the beautiful illuminate­d Christmas tree, bear and reindeer in front of The Atkinson, all the Christmas fayres and Christmas lights switch-ons, and everything else happening.

Being able to go ice skating just takes it up another level.

The ice skating takes place indoors, not outdoors, so weather is not an issue.

Everything happens inside a large heated Bavarian-themed marquee provided by organisers Southport TV and North West Marquee Hire.

You can book sessions on the ice – or stand and watch, depending how brave you are!

It doesn’t matter whether you’re the next Torvill and Dean or an ice skating novice.

There are people of all abilities, some whizzing around the rink, while others hold onto the sides to keep their balance as they get used to the skates, while you can also hire polar bear ice skating guides.

The lights are shining, the music is playing, and the atmosphere’s brilliant.

You can make a day or night of it too.

Next door to the ice rink is a

Bavarian style dining hall with a Bavarian themed bar, where you can enjoy food, hot drinks, cold drinks, alcoholic drinks, and sit listening to live music.

When we were there we enjoyed listening to superb local soul singer Dave Broe and the excellent duo, Decoy.

There were lots of other people enjoying the occasion, it was nice to catch up with some familiar faces.

The exciting family attraction will be back at Victoria Park in Southport until December 31 2023 with tickets available at: https://www.iceskating southport.com/.

Ice Skating Southport has been brought back after proving to be extremely popular with families last year.

Look out for special music nights, character visits and more.

Event organiser Mark Pickup said: “We’ve got a spectacula­r line-up of festivitie­s waiting for you.

“Step into our heated Bavarian themed bar and savour the authentic flavours of Germany!

“Enjoy delicious German food and a wide selection of beers that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Bavaria as well as all your traditiona­l faves including mulled wine and loaded hot chocolates.

“Weekends are where the party’s at! We’ve got an incredible lineup of bands, DJs, and singers to keep the good times rolling. Dance, sing, and celebrate with us next to the ice!

“Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

“So, grab your friends, family, or that special someone, and let’s make this holiday season one to remember.”

 ?? Photos by Stand Up for Southport ?? Ice Skating Southport has returned to Victoria Park in Southport
Photos by Stand Up for Southport Ice Skating Southport has returned to Victoria Park in Southport
 ?? ??
 ?? ?? Mark Pickup and Dave Broe at Ice Skating Southport at Victoria Park in Southport
Mark Pickup and Dave Broe at Ice Skating Southport at Victoria Park in Southport
 ?? ?? Decoy at Ice Skating Southport at Victoria Park in Southport
Decoy at Ice Skating Southport at Victoria Park in Southport
 ?? ??
 ?? ?? Ice Skating Southport has returned to Victoria Park in Southport
Ice Skating Southport has returned to Victoria Park in Southport

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom