The Rochester Recreation Department is bringing back a beloved East Rochester tradition and flooding the field at the Nancy Loud School. The outdoor rink is officially open and ready for skaters.

“We’re really happy to see the excitement surrounding the return of this Rochester tradition,” said Lauren Krans, Assistant Director Rochester Recreation Department. “A simple outdoor rink like this is weather dependent, so we’re hopeful temperatures will continue to cooperate. Given the fantastic community response, our team is already planning for how we can make outdoor skating more sustainable next winter.”

Recreation staff would like to remind residents to wear a mask and social distance. The rink is “self-driven” and not staffed. Also, there are no skate rentals available. Skaters are reminded to respect Nancy Loud School operations by keeping clear of the playground area and any staff or students when utilizing the rink during school hours.

Krans is encouraging skaters to post pictures to the Recreation Department Facebook and Instagram accounts.

“The rink has been a labor of love for our staff,” Krans continued. “East Side’s own Art Jacobs, our Recreation Supervisor, has spent several chilly evenings out there flooding the field. Being able to see families enjoy the rink, like him and his friends did when he was a kid, is really rewarding.”

Visit www.RochesterRec.com or call (603) 332-4120 to learn more about the Rochester Recreation Department and its various program offerings throughout the year.