Bayfront Festival Park’s outdoor ice rink opens for the season

After a warmer than average beginning to the winter season, the Bayfront Festival Park’s outdoor ice rink opened for the 2025 season on Saturday, January 11th.

On Sunday, Olivia Sjelin came to the rink with her three daughters, looking forward to the fresh coat of ice despite the windy weather.

“We really like skating. We try to come every year and as soon as we saw that was fresh ice, we wanted to get out there because there’s nothing like fresh ice. It’s just once it gets cold, it’s not really as good,” said Sjelin.

Marcus Saffold, a worker for the City of Duluth, chose to oversee the outdoor ice rink for the friendly faces and to help others stay active.

“Well, for me, I would say it’s super laid back and everyone just here is super nice and friendly,” said Saffold. “Duluth, I like to consider a very outdoor area. Ice skating is a great way to be outside and stay in shape. And it’s not too physically demanding either. It’s more of a casual activity, I want to say. Something you can bring with friends, do with friends, do with family,”

The Bayfront outdoor ice rink is free to the public and open seven days a week. Click here to view their 2025 schedule and hours of operations.