The Rink at Rockefeller Center – operated by Delaware North’s Patina Restaurant Group in New York City – kicked off its 80th anniversary season in grand fashion on Tuesday as it officially opened for the season.
Hosted by Olympic Silver Medalist Sasha Cohen, the celebration featured a ceremonial ribbon cutting and 
“first skate” with members of the Ice Theatre of New York and Figure Skating in Harlem. In addition, a trio of figure skaters from Ice Dance International paid tribute to the occasion by performing “The Three Smokers,” a piece commissioned by Ice Theatre of New York and choreographed by famed New York City ballet choreographer Edward Villella, who also appeared at the event.
The rink, which opened in 1936, will mark its anniversary milestone by playing Billboard No. 1 songs from the last 80 years throughout the season. Its surrounding restaurants, including Patina Restaurant Group’s Rock Center Café, Cucino & Co. Rockefeller Center and The Sea Grill, will supplement the celebration by offering their own nostalgic touches from menu offerings to décor and music.
The Rink is an international cultural landmark and one of the most visited sites in the world, with more than a quarter-million annual skaters. This season, The Rink is offering experiences such as Afternoon Tea and Skating and a late-night Starlight Skate, along with classic traditions such as Breakfast with Santa, Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Engagement on Ice, First Skate and VIP Skating.
