THE CENTRE OF ELGIN is set to be turned into a winter wonderland this Christmas with the creation of the first ever Elgin Ice Festival.
The most magical time of the year will become even more special as the Caledonian Skating Club has joined with community partners to provide a temporary ice rink in the heart of Moray’s main town.
Creative director and choreographer for the club, Jon Behari, said that the rink will be created on the Plainstones and ready for use by new and experienced skaters alike from December 17 – and it will remain in position through Christmas and into the New Year.
Jon told insideMoray: “Our Elgin Ice Festival will celebrate Winter and bring our community together.
“Christmas shopping, Christmas lights, taking time out, hot chocolate on a chilly day – all wrapped up in cosy clothes. We aim to bring people from far and wide who will be able to glide on the ice with family and friends this Winter in the heart of Elgin.
“The festival promises to boost local economy and it will create jobs, increase commerce and create magical experiences for the local communities of Moray and beyond.
“Members of the public of all ages and abilities will be able to ice skate outdoors on a ‘real’ ice rink in the heart of Elgin.”
Throughout the festival visitors to the centre of Elgin will be enjoying public ice skating that will include coaching sessions for those who have never skated before. There will be an opening night gala where Dancing on Ice and Figure Skating will be demonstrated, while the festival will host Christmas and New Year parties and Caledonia Ice Skating Club sessions.
There will also be the opportunity for local firms or individuals to hire the rink for private sessions or corporate entertainment.
To help in making the ambitious project come to life, Caledonia Ice Skating has launched a ‘crowdfunding’ page where they hope to raise at least £15,000 towards the costs of the event.
Jon said: “We have partnered with local businesses and have also received some funding towards the set-up costs – but now are looking to our community and friends for assisting with the operational costs.
“We truly believe that our local community and the city of Elgin deserves the opportunity to experience Winter in the most magical way.”
Those wishing to assist can visit the Elgin Ice Festival page online.
Those who would like to learn about corporate opportunities can contact Festival Brand Manager Audrey Russell on 07989 110079 or by email: audrey@elginicefestival.com
The Ice Festival also has an official Facebook Page.
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