THE ICE RINK AT ROCKEFELLER CENTER TO OPEN COLUMBUS DAY

10-03-2008

 

NEW YORK, NY – October 1, 2008 – The Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center will open on Columbus Day, October 13^th, to kick off the 2008-09 winter season.  It is the world’s most famous ice skating rink, with more than one quarter of a million skaters visiting each year between October and April.  This year’s Rink opening marks the beginning of the festivities leading up to the 76^th anniversary of the beloved Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.

 

The Rink will open this year with a special “Chefs on Ice” show from Ice Theater skaters.  Three skating chefs will offer cookies baked by Rock Center Café and The Sea Grill’s Pastry Chef Michael Gabriel to all visitors on opening day.  The skating chefs will perform from 9 am–4 pm, and a special press reception will be held from 9-11 am.

 

“Attracting skaters of all ages and levels, The Ice Rink is a tradition we are proud to be a part of,” said Nick Valenti, CEO of Patina Restaurant Group, which operates The Rink and its surrounding restaurants, The Sea Grill and Rock Center Café.  “Visiting The Ice Rink and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree has spanned generations and lasted throughout the decades, with more memorable years to come.”

 

The Rink first opened on Christmas Day in 1936 as the premier artificial outdoor skating pond built in New York City, complete with modern amenities: night skating, a heated house for changing skates, piped-in music and rink-side dining.  Over the past 72 years, The Rink has become one of the most visited sites in NYC – and even the world.

 

The perfect destination for both families and lovebirds, The Ice Rink has several programs planned for the upcoming skating season: “Engagements on Ice” will be available throughout the season, which offers couples private time to propose marriage on the Ice Rink, followed by a champagne toast at Rock Center Café.  “Breakfast with Santa” will begin late November and last through Christmas Eve for children to spend quality time with St. Nick, enjoy a delicious breakfast at Rock Center Café and partake in a skate session.  For those looking for a unique morning workout, Olympic gold medalist Jojo Starbuck hosts a morning “Cool Workout Sessions” program.  Finally, back by popular demand, “Skate-a-Date” will begin January 2009.  The program includes dinner for two at Rock Center Café and VIP skating on The Rink.

 

The Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center is located on 5^th Avenue between 49^th and 50^th Streets.  For schedules and skate rental information, please visit www.therinkatrockcenter.com.

 

Opening Day Press Reception: 9-11 am on October 13^th.  To RSVP please contact Kelly David at kdavid@5wpr.com.

 

About Patina Restaurant Group

Patina Restaurant Group (www.patinagroup.com) is the nation’s leading multi-concept operator in the premium segments of the restaurant and food service industry.  On the East Coast its portfolio features New York City’s world-famous Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, Rock Center Café, The Sea Grill, Brasserie, Brasserie 8½, Naples 45 and The Grand Tier Restaurant at the Metropolitan Opera. Other East Coast properties include Tutto Italia Ristorante at the Epcot World Showcase in Orlando, FLA and Tanglewood Music Center in Lenox, MA.

 

On the West Coast the portfolio includes the renowned Patina Restaurant in Walt Disney Concert Hall, Paperfish in Beverly Hills, Nick & Stef’s Steakhouse, Café Pinot at the Maguire Gardens, Zucca Ristorante, Catal and three other restaurants in Anaheim’s Downtown Disney District®, Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge at the Orange County Performing Artscenter, Pinot Brasserie in Las Vegas and catering and food service in museums and cultural centers throughout Southern California.

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