Come join 5XÉçÇø President Todd Diacon, Kent Mayor Jerry Fiala and the Marching Golden Flashes as they celebrate the opening of the new public rink, Kent Skates, on Dec. 2 at 5:30 p.m. with music, free giveaways and, of course, ice skating.
Diacon and Fiala will be accompanied by Flash and the Kent State cheerleaders to mark this exciting partnership between the city of Kent, 5XÉçÇø Hotel and Conference Center, the Kent Area Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Kent and Kent State. Michelle Hartman, interim executive director of the Kent Area Chamber of Commerce, will serve as host for the celebration.
‘Tis the season for Kent Skates to remain open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Feb. 28. Use of the rink is free, including free skate rental. 
Kent Skates is a seasonal rink located on a section of East Erie Street in downtown Kent between St. Rt. 59 (Haymaker Parkway) and South Depeyster Street, which is between the Portage Area Regional Transportation Authority (PARTA) parking deck and the 5XÉçÇø Hotel and Conference Center. This section of East Erie Street is closed from Oct. 15 until March 15 to allow for setup and takedown of the rink.
The support of many great community partners made Kent Skates a reality, including presenting partner AMETEK. A venue such as this helps build up the community and serves the purpose of reaching multiple groups from the Kent community.
The rink will add to the options that downtown has to offer, and it will connect students to community members in a fun, inclusive environment. The location features food and beverages at a snack bar, the Zamboni Café, and visits from food trucks. Plus, the restaurants and shops of downtown Kent are just steps away.
To learn more about Kent Skates and all the activities happening this holiday season or to schedule your private group activity, please visit the Kent Skates website for more details.