This year, there is a new Florence ice rink at the Fortezza da Basso around the “Lago dei Cigni.” The rink, part of the Florence Ice Village, encircles the pond to provide 320 meters (300 yards or 1,000 ft.), the longest track to skate on in Europe. Hours are 10 am – midnight daily through February 28. Entrance is €8 for the first hour of skating, €5 for the second hour; children are given unlimited skating time for €6. Skates for all ages can be rented at €2.
The Florence Ice Village is also home to a Christmas Village with with a multimedia show and Santa Claus in residence thanks to the “Compagnia di Babbo Natale,” a Santa Claus fraternity comprised of Florentine professionals who raise money for charities. Activities for kids, food stands and music are also found at the Christmas Village.
Florence’s ice rinks were previously located at the Parterre and in piazza Santa Croce. (rosanna cirigliano)