Winter evenings in the Rockies carry a kind of magic that doesn’t need much to feel special. A cup of cocoa, a few falling snowflakes, and the right song playing in the distance are usually enough. But every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night, something a little extra happens at the Village Pond in Winter Park. From 5:00 to 7:00 PM, that familiar mountain chill turns into a glowing celebration under the stars.
Glow Night Ice Skating is more than just a family activity. It is a weekly event that brings together locals, visitors, couples, and kids of all ages. The atmosphere is lighthearted but never chaotic. Think outdoor skating rink meets DJ set, with cosmic colors reflecting off the ice as laughter echoes from one end of the pond to the other.
If you’re looking for a winter evening that feels festive but relaxed, this is it.
What to Expect
Before stepping on the ice, head to Adventure & Supply Co. to pick up your rental skates. Staff are friendly and move quickly to get everyone geared up. Whether you’re a first-time skater or someone who hasn’t laced up since college, you’ll find the process smooth and easy.
Once you’re at the pond, the lights do most of the work. The rink glows with soft, cosmic lighting that shifts in color and pattern. A local DJ plays upbeat music that brings the energy up just enough to keep you moving but not overwhelm the vibe. This isn’t a loud party—it’s a glowing hangout where the soundtrack matches the smiles on people’s faces.
Children try their best to keep their balance, often with help from parents or strangers who offer a hand. Teens skate in circles, occasionally joining in on a makeshift dance-off near the center. Couples move a little slower, hands clasped, catching each other’s gaze as the lights swirl around them.
It’s simple. It’s pure. And somehow, it never feels repetitive, even if you go more than once a week.
Why Glow Nights Hit Different
There are plenty of winter events in Colorado. Fireworks. Festivals. Tree lightings. But Glow Night Ice Skating is one of those experiences that doesn’t rely on big crowds or grand visuals to impress. It’s just the right balance of movement, music, and mood.
There are no tickets to buy. No complex directions. You show up, rent your skates, and enjoy two hours of outdoor winter joy. No pressure to perform. No need to be great at skating. Just the encouragement to show up and glide under the lights.
It’s the kind of weekly ritual you find yourself looking forward to, even if you’re only in town for a few days.
Extend the Experience at The Jabberwocky
There’s no better way to cap off a glowing night on the ice than heading back to a warm, peaceful place that feels like yours. That’s where The Jabberwocky comes in. Located close enough to the Village but tucked away just enough to provide privacy, it’s the perfect home base for winter nights like this.
After skating, you can settle into a cozy living space with heated floors and a soft throw blanket. Take a hot shower, heat up leftovers, or sip a nightcap while you scroll through the photos you took on the rink. You’re not in a lobby. You’re not waiting on room service. You’re in your own mountain retreat.
If you brought the kids, they’ll be asleep before you finish your tea. If you came as a couple, you’ll find yourself talking about how surprisingly good the DJ was or how fun it was to fall without caring.
The Jabberwocky gives you space to enjoy moments like these without distraction.
Make It a Weekend You’ll Remember
Glow Night Ice Skating is not just an activity—it’s a mood setter. It marks the start of a great evening or becomes the highlight of a laid-back weekend. Pair it with dinner in town, a morning hike, or even another day of skiing. There’s enough variety in Winter Park that you never feel locked into a schedule.
But no matter what else you do, skating under the lights is likely the moment that will stay with you.
Book Your Stay at The Jabberwocky
There’s something special about ending a perfect winter night in a place that feels personal. After skating beneath glowing lights and music, come home to a space that’s quiet, cozy, and made for moments like these. The Jabberwocky isn’t just a place to sleep. It’s where your night continues—warm showers, soft beds, and the kind of peace only Winter Park can offer.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full week in the mountains, make your stay count. Walk back from the Village, kick off your boots, and settle in. You’ve already made memories on the ice. Now let The Jabberwocky turn the rest of your stay into something even better.
