FAQ's

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1. How much are ice skating tickets?
   Ice skating tickets are $7 for all ages for an all-day pass and skates are included.

2. Are skates available for rent?
   Yes, skates are included in your ice skating ticket purchase, although you may also bring your own skates if you prefer.

3. What are the rental skate sizes available?
   Skates are available in sizes ranging from Toddler-10.5 to Adult-15. For young children, we also offer double-runner ice skates, which feature two blades for added stability.

4. Do you offer skate aids for toddlers?
   Yes, we provide plastic whale-shaped skate aids that can be pushed along the ice to assist children who are learning to skate. Children may also sit on these whales while a parent pushes them. Since availability is limited, we ask that these skate aids be shared with other skaters after use.

5. What should I wear to go ice skating?
   Please dress appropriately for the weather, and consider wearing layers if you are in a cold climate. Socks and gloves are available for purchase on-site if needed.

6. Are there any age restrictions?
   There are no age restrictions; our motto is "if you can walk, you can skate." However, we ask that anyone under the age of 12 be accompanied by an adult. Please note that parents are not allowed to carry their children while skating.

7. Do you need to wear socks?
   Yes, wearing socks is required.

8. Is Winterfest handicap accessible?
   The park surface is covered with crushed pea gravel, which allows for wheelchair access, and city sidewalks surround the park. However, the ice rink itself is not handicap accessible.

9. When does Winterfest start and end?
   Winterfest will run from November 28, 2025 to January 4, 2026.

10. What are the ice skating hours?
    Open skate hours are as follows: Thursday and Friday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Saturday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

11. Is there food available?
    Yes, food trucks will be available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. There are also several excellent restaurants within walking distance of Winterfest.

12. Does Winterfest close for rain?
    Winterfest will remain open during light rain. In the case of heavy rain, lightning, or strong winds, the event will close. For updates during inclement weather, please check our Facebook page.

13. Will Santa be at Winterfest?
    Yes, Santa will be making appearances at Winterfest. Times will be posted on our website and Facebook pages.

14. What is Santa's Magical Elevator?
    ​Santa's Magical Elevator is not a real elevator, but a very magical experience that feels like you are taking an elevator ride to the North Pole. When you arrive at Santa's front door, you ring a doorbell, open the door, and get to visit with the real Santa! The elevator ride is $3/person for all ages and the experience takes around 5 minutes.​

15. Will there be vendors set up?
    Yes, vendors will be present every Saturday through the ECDI's Women's Business Center of Central Appalachia's Maker's Market. Please see their FB page for more info.

16. Where can I find more information on the schedule of events, special events, Christmas store, and Santa hours?
    For the latest information, follow us on our website at www.friendsofportsmouth.com, on Facebook at Friends of Portsmouth, and on Instagram.

17. Where can I catch carriage rides, and where is the schedule?
    The schedule for carriage rides will be posted on our social media channels. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket booth located across from Market Street near the National Church Residence Fountain Square.