Ice Skating, Curling Lessons, Train Rides, Visits with Santa, Crafts and More!
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk’s “Holiday Ice” is now open for the holiday season with ice-skating and other festive activities in the Boardwalk’s Main Plaza through January 5. (Check Schedule for exact days/hours.)
Visit beachboardwalk.com/Boardwalk-Holiday-Ice for reservations.
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Learn to Curl
Aspiring Olympians can sign up for a one-hour group curling lesson taught by the Granite Curling Club on Monday nights from 6-7pm. (Nov. 25, Dec. 2, and Dec. 9.) Sneakers not skates are worn on the ice, all equipment (brooms and granite rocks!) provided. For reservations call 831-423-5590 x2415.
Skating “Walkers” for Kids
The Boardwalk now has several skating “walkers” to help young skaters get used to the ice. The blue plastic assists are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visit with Santa: Nov. 30 – Dec. 24
Take holiday photos or join Santa for story time in Cannonball Arcade. Saturdays and Sundays, November 30 – December 22, plus Friday, November 29 and December 23-24 from 2 – 7:30pm. Free!
Holiday Treats
Try a special holiday treat like a fresh, made-while-you-watch, Oreo Peppermint Crepe topped with whipped cream or show your kids how to make ‘Smores with kits available from Barbary Coast restaurant.
Insta Moments
Take fun holiday photos at various locations around the Boardwalk. Hop onto a Giant Dipper “sleigh” near the Looff Carousel entrance, step inside a giant holiday wreath, pop out of a giant gift box, or capture a special moment on the ice.
Kids Crafts & Holiday Movies
You’ll find a kid’s Craft Corner in Cannonball Arcade, and after dark catch a free holiday movie outdoors at Neptune’s Stage.
Rides & Games
Weather permitting; some Boardwalk rides are open during Holiday Ice (check ride schedule). Boardwalk Arcades including Mini Golf are open daily.
Holiday Train Rides: Nov. 29 – Dec. 31
Roaring Camp’s Holiday Lights Train rolls into the Boardwalk on November 29 offering festive train rides. The colorful lighted train makes a round-trip journey from the Boardwalk through the streets of Santa Cruz while passengers sing carols with Santa and Mrs. Claus and sip cider with friendly elves.
The Chanukah Train makes a one-night journey on December 26 as families gather to light the menorah, listen to stories, play dreidel and enjoy kosher refreshments.
For Holiday Train schedule and reservations visit — beachboardwalk.com/Holiday-Train-Rides
Boardwalk Holiday Bash: Dec. 6
The Boardwalk Holiday Bash puts a fun spin on the traditional holiday party. Small companies, offices, departments, and groups of friends are invited to join the “mix-in” event for a cheerful evening with more play and less routine.
Hang out with your co-workers while sharing an ocean-view with other small companies. The festive evening includes arcade games, photo booths, a DJ, as well as a casual buffet dinner in the Cocoanut Grove and full bar. December 6, 6-11pm. For Holiday Bash info visit beachboardwalk.com/Boardwalk-Holiday-Bash
Hours & More Info
Admission to Holiday Ice and many activities like movies, crafts and photo ops are free. Skating is $14.95/hour, skates included. Skating reservations are recommended because sessions fill up during popular times. Private parties including firepits, food, and rink rental are also available.