The seasonal attraction brings a winter experience to the heart of Los Angeles, where visitors can enjoy skating, festive decorations, themed music nights, and special holiday activities.
Organizers also announced an opening celebration on November 19 featuring entertainment, refreshments, and a holiday tree lighting.
For residents and tourists, the event is an opportunity to enjoy Downtown LA beyond its usual restaurants, offices, and entertainment venues.
This guide explains the confirmed skating dates, ticket prices, special events, transportation options, and practical tips for planning a visit.
Pershing Square Ice Rink 2026: Dates, Location and Tickets
The Holiday Ice Rink is located at Pershing Square, 532 South Olive Street, Los Angeles, California 90013.
The venue sits within Downtown LA’s central business and entertainment district, close to restaurants, hotels, historic buildings, and Metro rail service.
Opening Dates, Admission and Skating Sessions
The official skating season runs from Thursday, November 12, 2026, through Sunday, January 3, 2027.
Organizers describe the temporary rink as a 7,200-square-foot outdoor skating facility.
Ticket Prices and Optional Skate Rentals
General admission includes skate rental, making it convenient for visitors who do not own skating equipment.
The October 21 event announcement listed general admission at $22.
However, the operator’s online pricing page lists a checkout amount of $23.32.
Visitors should confirm the current total when purchasing, since online fees or other pricing adjustments may affect the amount charged.
Optional extras include locker rental and skating helpers for beginners.
The pricing page lists a locker at $5.30, a skate helper at $6.30, and gloves at $5.
These accessories are not included in the standard admission price.
Guests should check the availability and suitability of skating helpers before visiting with younger children.
Tickets are available through the official Holiday Ice Rink website.
Buying in advance may be useful during weekends and holiday periods when popular skating sessions could fill quickly.
However, an online ticket does not eliminate the need to arrive on time and follow venue instructions.
Operating Hours and Session Length
The operator has published 60-minute skating sessions, with new sessions scheduled approximately every 90 minutes.
Regular weekday hours are listed as 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday skating is generally available from noon until 10 p.m.
During Thanksgiving week, November 21 through 29, the venue lists extended daily hours beginning at noon.
The same noon opening arrangement applies during the holiday break from December 21 through January 3.
However, special events and private bookings may affect the usual session schedule.
Always select a specific date and session through the official booking system before making firm plans.
Visitors should arrive before their scheduled entry to allow time for checking in, fitting skates, and storing belongings.
A 60-minute session can feel shorter if too much time is spent adjusting equipment.
Properly fitted skates are particularly important for beginners because loose equipment can make balance more difficult.
Special Events and Holiday Entertainment
The Holiday Ice Rink offers several themed events in addition to ordinary skating sessions.
Its 2026 programme includes music nights, special performances, and a November celebration.
November 19 Opening Celebration and Tree Lighting
The official opening celebration is scheduled for Thursday, November 19, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Although the rink begins regular operation on November 12, this later event serves as the seasonal celebration.
The announced programme includes performances by LA Ice Theater, holiday jazz carolers, a hula hoop skater, and a special appearance associated with Elf the Musical.
Organizers also plan festive refreshments and a holiday tree lighting.
The celebration creates an opportunity to experience the public square even for visitors who are primarily interested in the entertainment.
However, admission arrangements for skating should be checked separately from the celebration programme.
Do not assume that free entertainment automatically includes a skating ticket.
The event’s specific lineup may change, so consult the official schedule before attending.
DJ Nights, Classical Sundays and Themed Tuesdays
Several recurring programmes offer different ways to experience the rink.
Classical Sundays feature skating sessions accompanied by classical music at noon and 1:30 p.m.
DJ Spotlight Nights are scheduled for December 3, 10, and 17, with evening sessions at 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Tuesdays After Dark introduces themed skating experiences each Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
The published schedule includes a onesie-themed session on November 17 and Friendsgiving on November 24.
December events feature Broadway music, Latin holiday music, K-pop, country music, and Y2K nostalgia.
These special sessions may appeal to visitors who enjoy music and social activities alongside skating.
Nevertheless, participants should focus on rink safety even when the atmosphere is lively.
Dress in clothing that allows comfortable movement and does not create tripping hazards.
Themed attire should never interfere with visibility or skate control.
For current programming, visit the organizer’s official 2026 event announcement.
How to Plan Your Downtown Los Angeles Ice Skating Visit
Pershing Square is centrally located, which makes it convenient for public transportation and for combining skating with another Downtown LA activity.
However, holiday crowds and downtown traffic can affect travel times.
Metro Access, Safety Tips and Nearby Attractions
Visitors can reach the square using rail, buses, or a combination of walking and driving.
Planning the route before departure may make the outing more relaxed.
Taking Metro to Pershing Square
Pershing Square Station provides convenient access to the rink area.
The station serves Metro’s B and D lines and connects with other downtown rail services through nearby transfer stations.
Using public transportation can reduce the need to search for parking in a busy business district.
However, visitors should check current service alerts, fares, and operating hours before travelling.
Metro schedules may change around holidays or construction activity.
For ideas about traveling around Downtown LA, read our DTLA neighborhood and transportation guides.
Choosing rail can also make it easier to enjoy a nearby restaurant or cultural destination without moving a vehicle several times.
Parking and arriving by car
Several paid parking facilities operate around the Financial District and Historic Core.
However, prices, entry points, and operating hours vary between garages.
Drivers should compare options and confirm whether a facility remains open when their skating session ends.
Do not leave valuables visible inside a parked vehicle.
Visitors attending an evening session should also identify a comfortable walking route between parking and the rink.
What first-time skaters should bring
Comfortable clothing, long socks, and gloves can make skating more enjoyable.
Even though Los Angeles has a mild winter climate, the ice surface and evening air can feel cool.
Skaters should wear clothing that allows natural movement without loose fabric dragging near their feet.
Beginners may prefer to start near the rink barrier while becoming familiar with balance and stopping.
Children should be supervised according to the venue’s safety requirements.
Visitors should follow all posted rules and staff instructions.
Pair skating with Downtown LA dining
A holiday visit becomes more enjoyable when it includes one nearby meal rather than several distant stops.
Pershing Square sits near restaurants in the Financial District, Historic Core, and other central downtown neighborhoods.
For example, visitors might schedule an afternoon skating session before having dinner.
Others may prefer lunch followed by an early evening experience under the holiday lights.
Our Downtown LA restaurant guide provides options across multiple neighborhoods.
However, restaurant opening hours and reservation policies should be confirmed directly.
Holiday schedules can differ from ordinary business hours.
Other attractions near the rink
The Bradbury Building, Grand Central Market, and several historic downtown streets are within the wider central DTLA area.
Visitors interested in architecture can explore nearby public areas before or after skating.
However, individual attractions have their own access restrictions and opening hours.
Do not assume every interior space remains open late into the evening.
For a simple outing, choose one nearby attraction rather than trying to cover several neighborhoods during a single short skating session.
Frequently asked questions
When does Pershing Square Ice Rink open?
The rink opens November 12, 2026, and continues through January 3, 2027.
How much does skating cost?
The operator announced a $22 admission including skate rental, while its online booking page lists $23.32. Confirm the checkout total.
When is the opening celebration?
November 19, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
How long is each session?
The operator lists 60-minute skating sessions.
Is the rink suitable for beginners?
Yes. Beginners can participate, and optional skating helpers are available subject to venue rules.
Final thoughts
Pershing Square Ice Rink 2026 offers a festive way to experience Downtown Los Angeles during the holiday season.
With themed skating sessions, a November celebration, and convenient Metro access, the attraction suits families, friends, couples, and visitors exploring the city.
Book an appropriate session, review current ticket information, and plan extra time for holiday crowds.
Editor’s note: Event information reflects announcements available October 27, 2026. Prices, sessions, and programme details may change.