As someone who grew up in part of the U.S. where lakes and ponds freeze in winter and ice skating is a common winter activity, watching people ice skate under sunny skies with waving palm trees in the background is always surprising. For Southern California kids outdoor ice skating is an afternoon of fun in warm sunshine instead of the chilly experience during months of bitter cold that I remember. It is just another reminder of why I live in Southern California instead of at the foot of the Rocky Mountains.
These photos are from the ice rink in Pershing Square in downtown L.A. which is open through January 16. Another rink, sponsored by the L.A. Kings hockey team, is across from Staples Center.
Santa Claus has not yet made his appearance at Pershing Square and none of the Christmas ornaments are up. That will happen soon.
A newbie skater with a good grip on the penguin helper.
