Carolina Wren Park Holiday Ice Marks Another Strong Season

The ice was nice for downtown again this year.

More than 4,700 visitors strapped on the skates at the Carolina Wren Park Holiday Ice rink during the 2017 season, which ended Sunday.

“Our staff is always heartened by the looks of pure joy as we see parents and grandparents watch the little ones take to the ice for the first time or young people live out their dreams of gliding across the ice with professionally styled twirls,” said Bobby Beville, Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Anderson. “It’s just great fun for everyone.”

Beville said based on their analysis, another 4,800 non-skating visitors were also part of skating parties, brining the total number to 9,500 from the Upstate, Georgia and 27 other states.

Open from Nov. 22-Jan, 7, the rink attracted more skaters this year despite seven days of weather-related closings.  

“We can attribute this year’s success to several specific, strategic marketing and operational changes,” said Beville. “We introduced a new logo and brand identity and we made better use of social media. This, along with our efforts to target Northeast Georgia, translated into stronger participation.”

The rink also offered private-event nights, school nights and visits with Santa, attracted visitors and skaters from across the Upstate, Georgia and 27 states. 

A number of downtown merchants and restaurants have suggested the ice rink is good for business during the holidays.