The first-ever ice skating rink on the Marietta Square is being celebrated as a success, and many expect it to return again next winter.
“It was almost universally positive feedback,” said Sterling Wharton, president of the Marietta Square Branding Project. “We saw so many smiling faces and so many people thanking us for doing it.”
Located at the southwest corner of Glover Park, the ice skating rink closed for the season yesterday.
Wharton said the ice skating rink raised about $180,000 in sales that went toward paying an estimated $300,000 in costs to operate the “Winter Wonderland” events in historic Marietta during the season.
He said the rink drew over 15,000 skaters of all ages, as well as attracting more people who visited the Square to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
“Someone posted on Facebook about going with her mom who was in their 70s or 80s and about how she enjoyed watching the skaters,” said Wharton. “It almost brings tears to your eyes.”
Wharton, who owns three businesses on the Square including, The Butcher, the Baker restaurant, said he believes the ice skating rink was good for foot traffic and lured new customers there.
During the coming days, Wharton said city officials, business owners and others in the community will evaluate the impact of the skating rink. He said it is “very likely” it will return next winter.
Other “Winter Wonderland” events during the holiday season included Santa coming to town, toy workshops sponsored by Home Depot, and local choir performances.
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