Ice Cube at Christmas transforms Millennium Square in Leeds into a vibrant winter wonderland starting November 22, featuring a 400sqm outdoor ice rink, festive food stalls, and thrilling rides like the Starflyer. Visitors can enjoy skating, delectable treats, and the cozy Ski Bar, creating a magical holiday atmosphere for everyone until New Year’s Eve.
What festive activities can you experience at Ice Cube at Christmas in Millennium Square?
Ice Cube at Christmas in Millennium Square offers a range of festive activities including:
- Skating on a 400sqm outdoor covered ice rink
- Enjoying food from Bavarian-style market stalls
- Relaxing at the alpine-inspired Ski Bar
- Thrilling rides such as the Starflyer and Golden Gallopers carousel
- Savoring sweet treats like churros and waffles
- Accessible skating sessions and private lessons available
A Winter Wonderland Awaits
Millennium Square, a cornerstone of Leeds’ bustling city centre, is poised to transform into a picturesque winter paradise as Ice Cube at Christmas makes its anticipated return. Starting November 22, this annual extravaganza will envelop Victoria Gardens and Cookridge Street in the spirit of the festive season. A tapestry of attractions for all ages awaits, including an outdoor ice rink, a variety of market stalls, and a plethora of seasonal delights. The event promises a daily dose of holiday cheer from 12pm to 9:30pm Monday through Thursday, extending to 10pm on Fridays, 11am to 10pm on Saturdays, and a cozy 11am to 7pm on Sundays, with special hours adjusted for Christmas and Boxing Day, all the way up until New Year’s Eve.
The event’s centerpiece, a massive 400sqm outdoor covered ice rink, stands proudly in the square. A marquee, both transparent and elegant, ensures that skating sessions can proceed without a hitch, irrespective of the whims of the weather. The Penguin Club, a beloved fixture of the event, returns to offer children under nine the joy of skating with the help of charming penguin aids. These sessions run every weekend at 10:30am, with extra slots available during half-term, making it a prime spot for young ones to make their first glide on ice.
Adventurous spirits and those new to skating can take advantage of private lessons offered each weekend. Accessibility is a cornerstone of the event, with dedicated sessions for wheelchair users and disabled patrons available every Thursday. The commitment to inclusivity underscores the event’s welcoming nature, ensuring that everyone can partake in the festive fun.
Gastronomic Delights and Festive Atmosphere
Beyond the ice, the event serves up a banquet of festive treats. Bavarian-style market stalls beckon visitors with an international array of gastronomic delights – from traditional German bratwurst to Yorkshire pudding wraps, Canadian poutine, and festive Philly cheesesteak. For those with a sweet tooth, an indulgent spread of churros, waffles, and hot crumble and custard awaits, perfect for satisfying those winter cravings.
At the heart of relaxation and revelry stands the alpine-inspired Ski Bar. Its signature, a four-metre-high illuminated Ski Bear, beckons patrons to unwind with a drink and immerse themselves in the festive ambience. Here, family and friends can gather to warm their spirits amidst the hustle and bustle of the market, creating memories that linger well beyond the holiday season.
For families and thrill-seekers, there is no shortage of excitement. The towering 30m-high Starflyer, the classic Golden Gallopers carousel, and the dazzling 110ft Leeds Wheel of Light are sure to captivate and thrill. Cookridge Street and Victoria Gardens will host a collection of children’s rides and winter-themed games, rounding out a festive experience that’s as enchanting as it is exhilarating.
Celebrating Leeds’ Festive Spirit
Roger Tuby of International Funfairs expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with Leeds City Council, which brings not only the Ski bar but also a variety of rides and attractions to the event. The collective effort aims to create a magical winter wonderland feel that appeals to everyone. The Ice Cube at Christmas event stands as a testament to a city that embraces the holiday spirit with open arms.
Complementing the frosty fun of Ice Cube at Christmas, the revamped Leeds Christmas Market will take over City Square from Friday 22 November to Sunday 22 December. Visit Leeds offers further details on what visitors can expect from this festive venue.
Adding to the city’s festive offerings, Thor’s Tipi plants itself in front of Leeds Art Gallery, bringing with it a cozy Viking-inspired retreat complete with hearty dishes, festive drinks, and live music. Further details about Thor’s Tipi’s presence this Christmas can be found on their official website.
Amanda Monaghan, Director of THOR’S tipi, commented on the anticipation of their return, highlighting the addition of Christmas trees, twinkly lights, and a new mulled wine recipe. Councillor Salma Arif of Leeds City Council also shared her excitement for the event’s return, reinforcing the sentiment that Leeds is gearing up for a particularly memorable festive season.
Tickets for the ice rink are on sale from October 3, with pricing and discounts tailored to encourage participation across the community. Ice skating enthusiasts can book their sessions online at Ice Cube Leeds, where they’ll find comprehensive details about the event and attraction specifics.
With no conclusion to draw, as the festivities speak for themselves, Ice Cube at Christmas invites one and all to experience the joy and splendor of the season in the heart of Leeds.