Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park ice rink prepares to welcome skaters as the winter season begins on Nov. 24

Rochester, New York – Rochester is ready to glide into winter as one of the city’s most recognizable cold-weather traditions returns. The outdoor ice-skating rink at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park will open its gates for the season on Monday, Nov. 24, 2025, inviting residents and visitors alike to step into the familiar rhythm of blades carving into fresh ice. The facility, located at 353 Court Street in the heart of Downtown, will remain open through March 8, 2026, so long as winter temperatures hold steady enough to keep the rink in shape.

City officials say the annual opening marks more than the return of a recreational space. It’s a signal that Rochester’s downtown winter scene is beginning to take shape once again, transforming the park into a gathering spot filled with movement, laughter, and the cozy rituals that tend to define local winters. Mayor Malik D. Evans emphasized the role the rink plays in the larger landscape of seasonal activities, noting its long-standing appeal. “Ice skating is a classic winter pastime that offers fun for all ages – and we’re fortunate to have a picture-perfect outdoor rink right in Downtown Rochester,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “I encourage the community to embrace the season at MLK Park!”

This year’s schedule introduces a lineup designed to cover nearly every type of skater—from families arriving with bundled-up children to adults who prefer a quieter, more relaxed hour on the ice. Weekday sessions will roll out in several waves: 12 to 1:30 p.m.; 1:50 to 3:20 p.m. (an adults-only window except during school recess); followed by three evening blocks at 3:40 to 5:10 p.m., 5:30 to 7 p.m., and 7:20 to 8:50 p.m. The final session may be subject to occasional private rentals, with officials recommending a quick call to 428-7541 if skaters want to confirm space.

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Weekend hours follow a similar rhythm. On Saturdays, visitors can step onto the ice starting at 12 p.m. and continue through the evening with five skating blocks stretching to 8:50 p.m. Sundays feature four sessions, ending at 7 p.m. The rink will observe holiday closures on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, providing staff and families a chance to celebrate indoors while temperatures dip outside.

One of the season’s biggest draws returns in early December, as the popular Roc Holiday Village brings a wave of extended hours, festive programming, and free access made possible through sponsorship from Wegmans. From Dec. 5 through Dec. 28, the rink will operate under a special schedule: 4 to 10 p.m. on Wednesdays through Fridays; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays. For many families, this stretch has become a highlight of the season, offering hours of cost-free fun in an area filled with markets, lights, and other attractions.

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While MLK Park offers the charm of an open-air setting, those who prefer a slightly warmer environment can take advantage of indoor skating at the Genesee Valley Park Sports Complex Ice Rink, which will remain open through April 5, 2026. Details on schedules and admissions are available through the city’s website.

Residents looking for more information or planning their winter outings can call 428-7541 or visit the City of Rochester’s dedicated ice rink pages. With the winter season gearing up, the city hopes skaters of all ages will step onto the ice, whether for a first slow glide or a familiar seasonal tradition that returns year after year.