By Zak Zeinert, Chief Photographer

The Ice House skating rink is returning Friday for its third year of winter fun and festivities.

Despite weather-related problems in its first year, the skating rink is back once again to provide joy to the community.

Located at Nelson Park Festival Gardens, the skating rink is sponsored by Habitat for Humanity and will benefit the nonprofit organization, as well as the Dyess We Care team.

Karen Mendoza, event coordinator, said the skating rink was a big hit in the last few years.

“It really has. It’s been great for the community and it’s family-fun entertainment,” Mendoza said.

The park will open at 6 p.m. Friday and will remain open every day of the week,including holidays, until Jan. 5. Hours of operation are 6-10 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 6-11 p.m., Friday and Saturday.

Mendoza said because of the current economic situation, they lowered the admission price from $10 to $8.

Proceeds will benefit the Dyess team and Habitat for Humanity, as well as other local missions.

Coupons for the skating rink were sent to schools around Abilene in the hopes of drawing in a large number of students. The discounts also are available at the Habitat for Humanity office.

Jordan Ziemer, junior communication major from Houston, said he has never gone ice skating before but he is willing to give it a shot.

“I think I might go just because there’s generally a lack of things to do in Abilene. It might be fun and different,” Ziemer said. Mendoza said she is very excited about the fundraiser this year.

“The best part is just the fact that people are ice skating outside in West Texas,” she said.