Illustration of skaters in knitted hats on an outdoor ice rink ringed with trees and string lights (Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden)
Other Christmas Activities

Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden

Visitors can take to the ice on an outdoor rink situated within the Sculpture Garden. Each skating pass covers two back-to-back skating sessions with a brief intermission for ice maintenance. Skaters can bring their own skates or rent equipment on site, with free lockers provided for storage.

Nov 23, 2026 – Mar 7, 2027 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

$15 for ages 13+; $12 for ages 12 and under, people 60+, military service members with ID, and students with school ID; $265 season pass; skate rental $7. Fees cover two back-to-back 45-minute skating sessions. Free lockers are available first come, first served.

Hours

Sunday–Thursday, 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 11:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m.

Neighborhood

National Mall

Accessibility

Skating aids such as penguins and seals are not allowed on the ice; adults can support children directly or join a lesson.

Location

Sculpture Garden · 7th St and Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20565 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Outdoor skating fans and families with older children

Vibe

Active and wintry

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive close to the start of a session, as skating sessions begin on the hour.
  • Buy individual or small-group passes at the rink; groups of 20 or more can arrange tickets in advance.
  • Leave food, drinks, phones, cameras, bags, and skating aids off the ice because they are not permitted there.
  • Use the free lockers if available, and check whether the rink is open before setting out during rain or extreme temperatures.
  • Bring an adult onto the ice with any child under 12, as children in that age group must be accompanied.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Reduced admission for children 12 and under, people 60+, military service members with ID, and students with school ID.
  • Groups of 20 or more can buy tickets in advance.
  • Weekday group packages are available for schools, birthday parties, and private groups, subject to rink availability.
  • Private and group skating lessons are offered separately; lesson tickets include walk-up lessons or multi-lesson passes.
  • December drop-in lessons are offered on Saturdays; January lessons are offered on Saturdays and Sundays, with listed dates.

Links & Contact

Run by National Gallery of Art

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

What does a skating pass include?

Each pass covers two back-to-back skating sessions, with ice maintenance between them.

Can I buy tickets in advance?

Individual and small-group passes are sold at the rink. Groups of 20 or more can book ahead; season passes and skating lessons are available online.

Can children skate without an adult?

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult on the ice.

Can I bring food, drinks, or skating aids onto the ice?

Food and drinks are not allowed on the ice, and skating aids such as penguins or seals are prohibited. Parents or guardians can support children directly.

Are lessons available for different ages and abilities?

Washington Elite Skating School offers group and private lessons for all ages and abilities, including classes for young children and adults.

Browse Christmas in Washington

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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