The rink next to Orlov Most is the size of half a football field and is shaped like the one in Vienna
The largest ice park on the Balkan Peninsula opened this evening in Sofia, with a solemn ceremony, performances by young talents in figure skating, and many smiles. The facility is operating for the third year in a row with the support of the Sofia Municipality and the “Sofia – European Capital of Sports” Foundation. The rink will once again turn a large part of the Prince’s Garden next to Orlov Most into a giant sports arena, accessible for residents and guests of the city throughout the winter.
The ice rink was opened by Deputy Mayor Ivan Vasilev, who thanked everyone who helped Sofia have its ice park again. “The facility is located on an area of 11,000 square meters, 4,000 of which will be ice. The park has one large slid and two smaller ones. With its construction, Sofia ranks among the major European capitals that have a long tradition of using city facilities for winter sports,” Vassilev said before giving a symbolic start to the third season of the Sofia Ice Park and enabling the most eager skaters to make the first laps.
The chairman of the Sofia Municipal Council Tsvetomir Petrov and Dimitar Shalafov – chairman of the Committee for Children, Youth and Sports of the Sofia Municipal Council and chairman of the Foundation “Sofia – European Capital of Sports” also welcomed the attendees. Petrov emphasized the efforts of the municipal administration to provide more opportunities for an active and healthy lifestyle for the citizens of Sofia and the guests of the city, while Shalafov highlighted the social commitment of the facility, since from the beginning of 2025, there will be 3 hours daily for an organized visit of the children from the capital’s schools.
Among the official guests were Anatoli Iliev – organizational secretary of the “Sofia – European Capital of Sports” Foundation, representatives of IST Austria – the company that built the ice rink, and others.
The opening event was preceded by emotional performances by some of the representatives of the best Bulgarian ice sports schools. Representatives of the figure skating clubs “Denkova-Staviski” with coach Karina Beresneva and of SK “Iced Sparkles” led by Emanuela Ilinova displayed their mastery, gathering the eyes of hundreds of people who came to the ceremony. The performance of figure skater Maria Ilinova, who captivated the audience with a magical Christmas song, deservedly received the loudest applause.
Located in the Prince’s Garden across from St. Kliment Ohridski University, the ice park boasts three interconnected ice fields, stretching for an impressive length of 800 meters. There’s a dedicated lane for thrill-seekers who enjoy extreme skating, offering an extra dose of excitement. The attraction has 2,500 pairs of skates available for use, along with 60 trainers and 15 instructors ready to assist visitors.
A Christmas bazaar, kiosks with traditional food and drinks, a designated area for presentations and events under the auspices of Sofia Municipality, and many other attractions surround the rinks. Dances, workshops, concerts will take place by the ice rink而且 instructors are onkelp site who will conduct introductory lessons, work on a children’s program and ensure the safety of visitors. It is expected that the park will attract not only
Why do you think Sofia’s ice park has become such a cherished tradition?
## Interview with Deputy Mayor Ivan Vasilev
**Reporter:** Deputy Mayor Vasilev, thank you for joining us today. Sofia’s ice park is officially open for another season! Can you tell us a little about what makes this year’s opening special?
**Vasilev:**
It’s truly a pleasure to be here. This year’s opening is especially exciting because it marks the third consecutive year we are able to provide this fantastic facility to the residents and guests of Sofia. The ice park has become a cherished tradition, offering a space for recreation, exercise, and community engagement during the winter months. [[1](https://sportal.bg/news-2024120211091524015)
**Reporter:** You mentioned the park has become a tradition. Why do you think it resonates so strongly with Sofia residents?
**Vasilev:**
The ice park transforms a part of the Prince’s Garden into a giant winter wonderland. Think of it: 11,000 square meters, 4,000 of which is pure ice! It’s the size of half a football field [[1](https://sportal.bg/news-2024120211091524015). We even have slides, making it enjoyable for people of all ages. It brings people together, encourages an active lifestyle, and adds a touch of magic to the city during the colder months.
**Reporter:** any message you’d like to share with Sofia residents about the ice park?
**Vasilev:** Come on down and experience the joy of winter! Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just looking for a fun outing, the Sofia Ice Park welcomes everyone.
