Event · Central Park
NYC's Wollman Rink in Central Park Opens for 2026 With Free Halloween Weekend Skating
Central Park's Wollman Rink opened Oct 28. Admission and skate rentals are free all day Oct 31 and Nov 1, with costume skating on Halloween, and free outdoor family movies follow on Dec 3 and Dec 13.
By NBT Editors · 2026-10-30
Wollman Rink in Central Park began its 2026–27 season on Oct 28. It is open daily from 10am, with closing times that vary, and runs through March 16, 2027. The entrance is at 59th Street and 6th Avenue; the rink's address is 830 5th Ave.
The first weekend is built around Halloween. On Saturday, Oct 31, and Sunday, Nov 1, admission and skate rentals are free all day. Free tickets and rentals are reserved online. Free hot chocolate and candy are on offer, and Oct 31 includes costume skating.
In December, the rink turns to free family movies on the Overlook, the upper-level space above the ice. Screenings start at dusk: The Nightmare Before Christmas on Dec 3 and The Polar Express on Dec 13. Free popcorn and hot chocolate are handed out while supplies last.
Other options this season include the Igloo Village, with heated rink-side igloos for 8 to 40 guests, and season passes that allow unlimited skating, up to twice a day. Harlem's Melba's serves comfort food on the Overlook, and Wollman Café offers smash burgers, Roberta's pizza and chili.
For lower-cost skating, the Wollman Rink Access Program offers discounted walk-up entry and skates to anyone with a physical IDNYC or NYC library card. Community Days also offer free skating on set dates for veterans, teachers, public sector staff and others.
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