Walking that same nature path getting a little boring? Looking for a fun family activity to do during the holidays – outside?

Panther Island Ice is the only outdoor ice skating rink in Fort Worth – or in Dallas, for that matter. Located just north of downtown Fort Worth, it’s easy to find. Just look for their neighbor, the Coyote Drive-In.

Panther Island Ice will be open through January 18, seven days a week, including holidays. There you go.

Shanna Cate is Director of Programming with the Tarrant Regional Water District which operates Panther Island Ice.

Photo: Tarrant Regional Water District

Cate said this is the eighth year for the outdoor skating rink. For all that time, they’ve kept the same family-friendly format and, each year they’ve continued to see it grow in popularity. But this being 2020 – they are operating things a little differently.

“This year, advanced reservations are required online so you know, we encourage everybody to get online and purchase your tickets before you come to the ice skating rink where we are operating at 50% capacity.”

Cate recommends people make their reservations during the week and during off-peak times. And don’t forget to bring your masks. They are required.

Photo: Tarrant Regional Water District

Admission covers the cost of skate rentals. There’s a full menu concession stand with beer and wine options. There’s a covered seating area with gas heaters so you can warm up after skating – or stay warm watching your young ones trying to maintain their balance while not colliding with fellow skaters.

“If you want to expand the fun, you can purchase a ticket and stay for a movie,” said Cate.

“We encourage everybody to come out and find us and enjoy this Fort Worth holiday tradition.”

Photo: Tarrant Regional Water District

Proceeds from the ice rink go back into the TRWD recreation fund to help support the Trinity Trails and to fund events along the trails.

Which means you not only can have a fun family activity, you can help support recreational opportunities in  Fort Worth.

For a list of even more holiday activities around the North Texas area, check out Art&Seek’s Holiday Event Guide.

Got a tip? Email Gila Espinoza at gespinoza@kera.org. You can follow her on Twitter @espinoza_kera.

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