DOWNTOWN — The Millennium Park ice rink and Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon will return Friday.

The Millennium Park rink will open Friday and skaters can take to the ice until March 8, so long as the weather allows it, according to a news release from the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.

Skating at the rink is free, though skate rentals cost $13 Monday-Thursday and $15 Friday-Sunday and on holidays. Locker rentals are $1 and skate sharpening is $9.

Once the rink opens, skating hours will be noon-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, noon-10 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. weekends, weather permitting. The rink is at 1 N. Michigan Ave. by the Bean.

The Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon will be open until noon-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Sunday until the end of the season.

Skate rentals cost $13 Monday-Thursday and $15 Friday-Sunday and during holiday skates. There is a $3 locker rental fee.

The rink opening will kick off winter festivities Downtown, as a week later, on Nov. 22, the city will also light up its huge Christmas tree in Millennium Park during a special ceremony.