As winter blankets South Bend, Howard Park comes alive as a haven of outdoor connection, adventure, and unparalleled experiences. Located in the heart of the city, Howard Park is a top winter destination, offering activities like ice skating, themed events, and family-friendly gatherings. It’s the perfect place to visit all season long.
WEEKLY HIGHLIGHTS
DJ Skate Nights and broomball — Howard Park hosts DJ Skate Nights every Friday throughout the winter at 8 p.m., where ice skating and music come together to create an exhilarating experience. A live DJ spins a mix of tunes, adding energy and excitement to the ice trail. For those seeking something different, broomball is a fast-paced ice sport played without skates. Players use special brooms to hit a ball into the goal, making it an entertaining and accessible game for groups of all ages and skill levels.
THEMED SKATING EVENTS
Howard Park takes skating to the next level with special themed events during the winter months.
January — White Out Skates transform the rink into a glow-in-the-dark spectacle. With blacklights and glowsticks illuminating the ice, White Out Skates are an irresistible fusion of music, motion, and fun.
February — 90’s Throwback Skates invite guests to hit the ice and groove to iconic 90s hits — from pop and grunge to hip hop — evoking a wave of nostalgia under the sparkling night sky.
SPECIAL COMMUNITY EVENTS
Beyond skating, Howard Park brings the community together with meaningful, family-friendly events.
Daddy-Daughter Dance, Feb. 4 — Fathers and daughters are invited to share a magical evening at the Howard Park Events Center filled with dancing, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Black History Month Celebration, Feb. 16 — This event showcases a market with local vendors, cultural activities, and skating, offering an immersive and engaging experience for all.
Mom-Son Dance, March 4 — This event, also at the Howard Park Events Center, invites mothers and sons to create cherished memories through a night of joy, rhythm, and connection.
GIVING BACK Skate-it-Forward Howard Park promotes inclusivity through its Skate-it-Forward initiative. Ten percent of skating proceeds go into a fund that supports local families in need by providing free skating passes, lessons, and discounted family passes. By partnering with community organizations, the program ensures everyone can enjoy the rink, regardless of financial circumstances.
To plan your visit and explore the entire winter schedule, visit the Howard Park website at visithowardpark.com.
Stephanie Bernaba is a freelancer with national reach who thrives on topics like food and entertainment.
