Winter is coming to Reston Town Center, at least in spirit, with the return of its ice skating pavilion next week.
The RTC Ice Rink is slated to open for the 2026-2027 season on Tuesday, Nov. 10 and will continue operating daily through March 2027, as the weather allows.
The season was originally expected to open today (Nov. 6), but the date was postponed due to rain in the forecast.
“Located in the heart of Reston Town Center, the open-air rink offers a festive winter experience for skaters of all ages, surrounded by holiday décor and steps from the Center’s shops, restaurants and seasonal attractions,” the town center said in a press alert announcing the opening.
Typical operating hours will start at 11:30 a.m. and end at 9 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday or 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Admission can be reserved online, with tickets starting at $12 for adults, $10 for youth, seniors and military service members, and $15 per person for groups of at least 10 people. Community members can also rent the rink for private events, host fundraisers, and buy gift vouchers and passes.
Reston Town Center has more than 500 pairs of rental skates available, along with penguin and snowman-shaped skate aids for those who need some balancing support.
New for this year, the pavilion will feature Gondola Lounges overlooking the ice rink, allowing spectators “to gather, sip hot chocolate from nearby restaurants and take in the sights and sounds of the season,” RTC says.
According to the alert, the launch of ice skating at Reston Town Center kicks off a holiday season that will also include “festive” mini-train rides, the Reston Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting, and a Run With Santa 5K, among other activities.
Once recognized by USA Today as one of the country’s best holiday parades, the Reston Holiday Parade is scheduled to return for a 34th year on Nov. 27, starting at 11 a.m. The event will include floats, marching bands, live entertainment, community performers and other family-friendly activities, culminating with the tree lighting at 6 p.m., per the event page.
Meanwhile, registration is open for the Run With Santa 5K, which is set for Dec. 6. Early bird pricing of $45, or $35 for kids aged 1-14, is available for both the in-person event and a virtual 5K until 11:59 p.m. this Sunday (Nov. 8).
