Illustration of two skaters in red coats and knitted hats on a small ice rink beside a snowman, trees and a glowing hut (San Mateo On Ice)
Other Christmas Activities

San Mateo On Ice

Visitors can skate on an outdoor rink featuring 11,000 square feet of real ice in Central Park. Skaters of all experience levels can glide under the daytime sunshine or skate beneath the stars at night. Ice skate rentals are included with admission, and skating support aids are available for beginners.

Nov 13, 2026 – Jan 10, 2027 4+

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Public Skate Sessions from $24.61; listed for ages 4+.

Neighborhood

Central Park

Food & Drink

A visitor review mentions hot chocolate; non-alcoholic beverages are permitted, while outside food is allowed only with a private tent rental reservation.

Location

Central Park · 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, United States Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, friends, and beginning skaters

Vibe

Lively and welcoming

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • If a beginner needs a Skate Buddy, reserve one ahead for the first hour of your session, because only 30 can be booked and later availability isn't guaranteed.
  • Add your QR code ticket to your phone's digital wallet before you arrive so it's ready to scan at check-in.
  • Dress for the weather, since this is an outdoor rink that keeps running in the rain unless conditions turn dangerous for skaters.
  • Leave your valuables at home, because the rink isn't responsible for lost or stolen items, but do bring a camera for your skating memories.
  • Bring a helmet if you have one, because helmets are recommended but not required and everyone skates at their own risk.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Free Community Skate Days on November 16, December 1, December 8 and December 10, thanks to local sponsors.
  • Private tent rentals for up to 40 people for two hours, booked separately.
  • Private ice sessions that reserve the entire rink, booked by phone.
  • Skate Buddy walker rentals for beginners for an extra fee, with 30 available to reserve ahead for each session's first hour.

Links & Contact

Run by On Ice Rinks

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can skate at public sessions?

Public skate sessions are for ages 4 and up. Skaters of every level are welcome, whether they come alone, with family or with friends.

Are skates included, and is there help for beginners?

Skates come with admission. Beginners can rent a Skate Buddy, a plastic walker that glides along with them on the ice, for an extra fee in one-hour blocks.

Can we bring food and drinks?

You can bring non-alcoholic drinks. Outside food is only allowed if you've reserved a private tent.

What happens if it rains?

The rink stays open in the rain but will close if conditions become dangerous. All ticket sales are final, and there are no refunds for rain or other weather.

Can we hold a party at the rink?

Yes. You can book a private tent online for up to 40 people for two hours. For a private ice session, which reserves the entire venue for your group, call the rink.

Browse Christmas in San Mateo

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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