Illustration of skaters on a frozen woodland pond with a bonfire on the bank and lanterns in the trees (Skate with Santa)
Other Christmas Activities

Skate with Santa

Visitors can take to the ice for a holiday-themed public skating session. The event features sweet treats like cocoa and candy canes, along with a special appearance by St. Nick. Skaters can also participate in a community food drive supporting the Wilmette Food Pantry.

Thu, Dec 24, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

$5 fee with a non-perishable food donation to Wilmette Food Pantry; 5 & under are FREE; standard student fee $8; standard adult fee $9; standard 5 & under fee $4; skate rental $5.

Hours

11 am-12:30 pm.

Food & Drink

Cocoa and candy canes will be available at the event.

Location

Centennial Ice Rinks · 2300 Old Glenview Rd., Wilmette, IL 60091 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday-loving skaters

Vibe

Festive and active

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Bring a non-perishable food item for the Wilmette Food Pantry, because it gets you the reduced rate and lets kids five and under skate free.
  • Don't plan on the regular afternoon public skate on December 24, because Skate with Santa replaces it that day.
  • If you don't have your own skates, you can rent a pair at Centennial Ice Rinks for an extra fee.
  • Dress in warm layers and bring gloves, since you'll spend the session on the ice before warming up with cocoa.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Bring a non-perishable food donation for the Wilmette Food Pantry to get the reduced rate. Kids 5 and under skate free.

Links & Contact

Run by Wilmette Park District

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 happens at Skate with Santa?

It's a holiday-themed public skate with cocoa and candy canes, plus a visit from St. Nick.

Should we bring anything?

Bring a non-perishable food donation for the Wilmette Food Pantry. Skaters who bring a donation get a reduced rate, and kids 5 and under skate free.

Can I rent skates?

Yes, skates can be rented at the rink for an extra fee.

Who is it for?

It's open to all ages.

Is there a regular public skate later that day?

No. There's no public skate later in the afternoon on December 24, so come to Skate with Santa instead.

Browse Christmas in Wilmette

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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