So, it's not exactly a land of blizzards, but when the holidays roll around, Orange County knows how to do ice skating. Rinks pop up all over, swapping palm trees for giant Christmas trees and twinkling lights for the perfect winter photo op. Grab your scarves and gloves (you might need them for the falls!), and hit the ice at these OC locations.

 

Irvine Spectrum Outdoor Ice Skating Rink

Skating Under The Stars at Irvine Spectrum Center

This is one of the most popular Orange County ice skating destinations, and for good reason. The Irvine Spectrum ice rink is set up right next to the Giant Wheel, meaning you're skating under thousands of lights with a massive Ferris wheel as your backdrop. The rink is open daily, hosts fun themed nights (like Ugly Sweater Night), and is surrounded by great shopping and dining, perfect for a family outing or holiday date night.

winterfest-ice-rink

 

Winter Fest OC: The Arctic Ice Trail

If you want an entire winter carnival wrapped around your skating experience, head to Winter Fest OC at the OC Fair & Event Center from November 28, 2025, to January 4, 2026. When you're done skating, ride the massive Snowflake Summit slide, visit Santa, and explore a full winter wonderland festival, complete with snowman building and a snow tossing zone! It's a one-stop shop for family holiday activities with great food and photo opportunities. 

Indoor Ice Skating in Orange County

If looking for a more permanent setup, Orange County also has great indoor options for ice skating year-round:

  • The Rinks Anaheim ICE: This state-of-the-art facility features both NHL and Olympic-sized rinks, making it a choice for skaters of all levels.
  • The Rinks Great Park ICE: Offers massive, year-round, indoor NHL-sized rinks with daily public skating sessions. It's affordable, reliable, and they often have skate aids for newbies.
  • Yorba Linda ICE: Known for daily public skating sessions, this complex boasts well-maintained rinks and offers skate mates for those new to the ice.
  • Lake Forest Ice Palace: A popular, modern ice rink offering public skating sessions throughout the week during select times.
  • Aliso Viejo Ice Palace: This local favorite offers public sessions and skating lessons for all ages. It’s perfect for families, with equipment rentals and even a dedicated skate school.

 

Image of two kids in Christmas hats overlooking an ice skating rink.

 

Winterspace in San Juan Capistrano

 

Ice Skating: Know Before You Go

Most outdoor rinks run from mid-November through early January, so check dates before you head out. Tickets usually run between $15 and $35 for admission (which includes ice skate rentals).

Weekends can get pretty busy, especially between Christmas and New Year's, so book ahead or show up early. Depending on your party size, many rinks also offer group rates and private ice time, so do your research before lacing up your skates!

Outdoor Ice Skating In Anaheim

Whether you're twirling on the ice or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, Orange County's ice skating spots offer a delightful way to celebrate the season. But if you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, grab a hot cocoa and skate under the stars with these outdoor ice skating rinks in and around Orange County. Lace up your skates and glide into the winter wonderland of Southern California! Here we go!

 

Calendar Events in Anaheim Events Calendar

This winter, bring some festive fun to your holiday season by visiting one (or more!) of these great ice skating spots in Orange County! Stay tuned for updates as the holidays approach, and check out our events calendar for more things to do in Anaheim and the OC this season!

Email Icon - Subscribe to the Anaheim Update Sign Up for our Newsletter

Stay in the loop with all things Anaheim! Sign up for our newsletter below to receive the latest updates, exclusive deals, and exciting news right in your inbox. Don't miss out on the magic!