For three hours, the south ice rink was open for a free skate with Santa and a few other costumed friends. Skate rental was also free for the afternoon and many families took the offer.

Recreation Program Supervisor Liz Malloy said there were approximately 200 skaters within the first hour of the event. Many of the skaters brought a non-perishable food item to help the local food shelf.

The event brought skaters of every skill level ranging from beginner to expert. It was a great opportunity for parents and older siblings to teach the younger generation how to skate. Some of the younger kids learning to skate for the first time held the hands of older family members, while others preferred to use special walkers for balance.

On the opposite end of the skating spectrum, there were figure skaters like LorRae Portner, who could skate better on a single blade than most people can skate on two. Portner said the secret to skating well is balance and properly maintaining your skates.

Over 200 visitors attending the free Skate with Santa within the first hour. Recreation Program Supervisor Liz Malloy said skating will always be a popular attraction in Minnesota.

Skating alongside the kids were Santa Claus and several other costumed characters, such as Winnie the Pooh, Tigger and the Cat in the Hat. Members of the New Ulm Steel Hockey Team were also on the ice.

There were other activities available for youth besides skating. A special room was set up for kids to decorate holiday cookies, make arts and crafts and even write letters to Santa Claus.

Colorful characters were on hand skate with the kids and even help them balance.

Over 200 visitors attending the free Skate with Santa within the first hour. Recreation Program Supervisor Liz Malloy said skating will always be a popular attraction in Minnesota.

Staff photo by Clay Schuldt The ice-skating snowman couldn’t speak with the kids, but he could play rock, paper, scissors. The snowman usually chose rock and he usually won.