The only thing better than ice skating at a pop-up rink in Old Oakland is that said pop-up rink will feature, in true Oakland style, gourmet eats, like tacos, wood-fired pizza and more.

For the first time ever, Oakland will have a seasonal, outdoor skating rink for all to enjoy during the holidays. The rink, which opens Dec. 14, is located at the corner of Washington and Ninth Streets in Old Oakland.

Food, including blistered wood-fired pizzas and fried arancini by the neighborhood’s newest restaurant, Benchmark, and scrumptious tacos and sopes by nearby Tamarindo Antojeria Mexicana, will be available to rink visitors for purchase. Benchmark, which opened in November and is already a hot spot, is launching brunch service on weekends to accommodate the rink.

Mobile trailer The Whiskey Chaser will be offering a unique bar experience for the ice rink, as well.

According to a press release, more than 25,000 skaters are expected to descend on the rink during the month-long project. The kick-off celebration of the Old Oakland Holiday Ice Rink takes place at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 14. The rink’s hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and it will remain open through Jan. 6.

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