For one month of the year, the popular Beestenmarkt is transformed from a hip patio atmosphere to a surprisingly large artificial skating rink.
The Dutch would call this cosy or gezellig and it certainly is. During the day, the rink is full of spirit and rosy cheeks and by night the trees are twinkling with fairy lights and skaters are holding hands. The skating rink operates from December 6 to January 6.
It’s open every day and opening times start early and go late with the month separated into before the Christmas vacation (December 7-20) and Christmas vacation (December 21-Janurary 6). They are even open on Christmas Eve, day and Boxing Day as well as on New Year’s Eve and Day.
If you don’t have your own skates, it’s possible to rent them for €5.75 at the door. You can also rent a pair of mitts for €3 if you forget your own. Plan ahead and buy your tickets and rentals online in the webshop for a discounted price.
During most of the day the skating rink can be busy. If you are an early bird it’s only €3 and you might have more space to practice your fancy footwork. Every Saturday from 10:00-12:00 and from December 21-January 6 Monday to Saturday from 10:00-12:00 is the Early Bird special.
For ladies only, there is a Ladies Winternight planned on December 9 from 19:30 – 22:30. According to the website, you can “Experience, taste, make, learn, try, enjoy and of course skate” on this fun night. Make sure to buy your tickets in the web shop for €5.75 or €7 at the door.
Another event planned is an Ice Disco – Guilty Pleasures. On December 21 from 20:00-22:00, music from the 80’s and 90’s will be playing for this skating party.
After skating, you can warm up with a cup of cocoa or an Irish coffee in the adjoining restaurant De Schaatskoe. Taste test Dutch winter classics like erwtensoep and stampot for something hearty. Cheese fondue, Glühwein and other treats are available. With frost in the air, and Christmas carols in your head, there is something magical about ice skating.
Get the complete hours on their website: www.schaatsbaandelft.nl/openingstijden
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