Rockefeller Center Ice Rink Will Open October 10
The iconic New York City ice skating destination returns for its 90th anniversary season.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Ice Shows
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The Rink at Rockefeller Center is set to open for the 2026 season on October 10. The attraction welcomes the public daily starting at 9 a.m.
Why it matters
The seasonal reopening marks the beginning of New York Citys winter tourism cycle at one of its most famous landmarks. Visitors can access the rink for skating or attend various cultural events hosted on the plaza throughout the fall.
Standard tickets for the rink start at $22 per person, while VIP packages begin at $131. This season represents the 90th anniversary of the historic attraction.
The players
Rockefeller Center
This historic landmark and business complex in Midtown Manhattan serves as a major hub for tourism, shopping, and public events.
Kenny Scharf
He is a prominent American painter known for his involvement in the 1980s East Village art movement and his colorful pop-surrealist works.
The details
In addition to skating, the plaza will host an art exhibition by Kenny Scharf titled Scary and the dancers from November 1 through November 7. Families can also participate in the Art Sundae program, which offers free art workshops for children every Saturday in October.
Timeline
The Rink at Rockefeller Center opens for the season on October 10, 2026.
The Art Sundae program workshops occur every Saturday in October.
The Kenny Scharf exhibition begins on November 1, 2026.
The Kenny Scharf exhibition ends on November 7, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The reopening highlights the shift toward experiential winter attractions that combine traditional recreation with large-scale art installations. This strategy helps venues like Rockefeller Center maintain cultural relevance against evolving entertainment competitors in the city.
Visitors can access the plaza daily starting at 9 a.m. for skating sessions. Guests interested in specific art events or premium skating experiences should book tickets in advance through the official portal.
The takeaway
Early season visitors should note the transition from October workshops to November art installations on the plaza. Checking the event calendar is recommended to coordinate skating plans with the specific exhibit dates.
Further reading
Discover more seasonal entertainment options across the city in our Ice Shows section.
More information
To purchase passes or view the full season schedule, visit the Rockefeller Center ice rink ticket portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NBC New York.
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