Blue Cross offers free ice skating at Worcester rink

WORCESTER — If you’re looking for a budget and family friendly winter activity, upcoming complimentary sessions at the Worcester Common Oval ice skating rink have got you covered.

With winter in full swing, area residents are being invited to skate for free at the rink located downtown Worcester behind City Hall at 455 Main St. on Monday, Jan. 19, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, from 1 to 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23 from 5 to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday Jan. 24 and 25 from 1 to 6 p.m. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts is hosting the series that aims to promote both physical activity and mental well-being and children 12 and under can also enjoy complimentary skate rentals, making these events accessible for families across the region.

“We appreciate Blue Cross’ ongoing support in making the Oval a welcoming destination for downtown Worcester each winter,” said John LaHair, director of marketing for the DCU Center, which also manages the Worcester Common Oval. “These free skating days help strengthen the sense of community the rink fosters and have become the highlight of the season. We’re excited to invite everyone back to the rink.”

Blue Cross Vice President of Corporate Citizenship & Public Affairs Jeff Bellows said they are proud to partner with the Worcester Common Oval to offer free skating for the fourth consecutive year, events “that bring families together and make it easier for people to stay active and connected during the winter months.

“These events reflect our ongoing commitment to the Worcester community and to creating welcoming, inclusive experiences that support both physical and mental well-being,” Bellows said.

The 12,000-square-foot Worcester Common Oval ice skating rink has welcomed more than 90,000 skaters since it opened in 2012, and it offers skate rentals and concessions. By sponsoring these free skating days, Blue Cross hopes to encourage outdoor winter activities that promote movement, balance, and overall wellness. Ice skating offers a full-body workout that supports cardiovascular health, coordination, and joint flexibility, while also providing mental health benefits through outdoor activity and social connection.

For more information including weather-related closings call the Worcester Common Oval ice skating rink weather hotline sponsored by Cornerstone Bank at 508-929-0777 and follow Worcester Common Oval on Facebook and Instagram.