Emporia has scored with its latest fall and winter entertainment option.
Another way to look at this: it’s a 10, even from the Russian judge.
The Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Emporia will have the ESB Financial Holiday Plaza skating rink in the city’s food truck parking lot at 923 Commercial beginning in late November. Interim Chamber CEO Christian Keisler says this started as a conversation with Interim Visit Emporia Director Matt Fowler. There were concerns about natural versus synthetic ice, weather and other factors, and Keisler says synthetic ice will be used. He says this opens up new opportunities for downtown Emporia and for its businesses.
The parking lot is owned by Champions Landing owner Jeremy Rusco.
Keisler also thanked sponsor ESB Financial for partnering with the Chamber and Visit Emporia.
Other terms are not being released, including the rink supplier. Regardless, Keisler believes this is a win for the community at a time when it’s needed.
There will be a special launch event Nov. 20 in connection with ESB Financial’s 125th anniversary for the 60-foot-by-40-foot rink. The actual open date for the public will be Nov. 21, and Keisler says the goal is to keep the rink open through at least January. Festive decorations and food trucks will be connected to the Holiday Plaza. The plaza will also be open to special events, community activities and private rentals, and Keisler says skates will be available for rent. Admission rates are currently pending.
More information is available online at emporiakschamber.org or by calling 620-342-1600.
