Schenectady, N.Y. – Discover Schenectady today announced a new winter attraction coming later this fall and winter to Mohawk Harbor. The Schenectady River Rink will launch in December and run through February. During the holidays, Beekman 1802 will host a Holiday Pop-up Shop at the River Rink.
The new outdoor winter attraction will feature a 60’x100’ ice skating rink open to the public that will be located next to Druthers at Mohawk Harbor. The new winter rink will include skate rentals, entertainment, heated hospitality tent and themed kiosks around the rink adjacent to the amphitheater area where the successful summer concert series, Harbor Jam, is held.
“Mohawk Harbor is one of the largest and most successful waterfront developments in Upstate New York,” said Cathy Gatta, Schenectady County Legislator and President of Discover Schenectady. “It has become a community hub that attracts visitors from around the Capital Region and beyond. We are excited to launch the new River Rink at Mohawk Harbor.”
Druthers Brewing Company, Shaker & Vine and Rivers Casino & Resort will provide food and beverage options at the River Rink. Beekman 1802, which has its corporate headquarters at Mohawk Harbor, will offer a Pop-up Shop during the holiday season. Other events are planned for Christmas week, New Year’s Eve, Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day and President’s Week. A ribbon cutting and opening ceremony is planned for early December. Discounted season passes and family package tickets are on sale now at www.flightonice.com. Hotel packages will also be offered. Businesses interested in sponsorship packages should visit www.flightonice.com and click “sponsor a rink.”
Todd Garofano, Executive Director for Discover Schenectady said, “We are thrilled to partner with the Galesi Group, Metroplex, Flight Entertainment Group, Beekman 1802 and Rivers Casino & Resort to create a wonderful outdoor winter attraction that will attract visitors and locals alike. As the tourism sector rebounds, we know people feel safer in outdoor settings. This new outdoor experience extends our tourist season which supports our local economy and protects jobs.”
“Flight on Ice is proud to be a part of the revitalization happening all around Schenectady. Our hope is to establish a great experience and create special wintertime memories for the community and visitors alike, ” said Rob Wright from Flight Entertainment Group.
“Metroplex is excited to support efforts to bring outdoor skating and the Beekman Holiday Pop-up Shop to Mohawk Harbor,” said Ray Gillen, Chair of the Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority. “Mohawk Harbor is already well known for its outdoor dining and summer concerts. Now we continue the fun all winter long.”
“There is no kinder way to ring in the season with our neighbors than with a celebration that includes all of our favorite things – ice skating, holiday food, and spreading holiday cheer and kindness throughout our community,” said Dr. Brent Ridge one of the “Beekman Boys” founders of Beekman 1802. “Building community has always been a part of Beekman 1802, and we are so proud to work with Galesi Group and the other sponsors this holiday to bring our neighbors out for a little fun and festivities.”
David Buicko, President and CEO of the Galesi Group said, “From our first meeting with Flight Entertainment and Metroplex, we knew that we wanted to bring this new attraction to Mohawk Harbor. This is a live, work and play waterfront development and now Schenectady will be the place to be this winter for great skating, food, entertainment and shopping.”
About Discover Schenectady
Discover Schenectady is a non-profit organization responsible for promoting travel, tourism, conference and convention assets and opportunities throughout Schenectady County. Discover Schenectady inspires visitors to experience and enjoy that Schenectady County has to offer, from its vibrant communities with dining, entertainment and shopping to its gorgeous waterfront and outdoor activities.
For more ways to Discover Schenectady County all year long, visit www.discoverschenectady.com