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St. Paul Getting Into The Holiday Spirit

ST. PAUL, Minn. (WCCO) – Winter Skate at Rice Park in St. Paul is officially open for business. The European Christmas Market starts Friday at 2 p.m.

Visit St. Paul, along with the city, are kicking off the holidays, beginning on Nov. 29 at 5 p.m. The grand opening celebration of the Wells Fargo Winter Skate ice rink and the Rice Park powered by Xcel Energy tree lighting bring a version of New York City's Rockefeller Center experience to the heart of downtown St. Paul.

The celebration will include musical performances, skating exhibitions and fireworks to help light the tree in Rice Park. After the grand opening, the rink will be open to everyone for free skating and free skate rental.

This year, skaters will stay extra cozy in the new McGough Warming House.

Saturday Stage Schedule

4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.: The Choo Choo Bob Band

5 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: The Tree lighting will include performances by Ordway's production of "A Christmas Story," St. Paul Hotel's "It's A Wonderful Life ~ A Live Radio Play" and the Minnesota Dance Collaborative' s glamorous high-kick precision line, "Illuminaires."

5:30 p.m.: Fireworks

- The gigantic tree in Rice Park will be lit 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

- 15,000 energy-efficient LED lights.

- The park will sparkle with millions of twinkling lights, classic Nutcracker and angel statues, and other holiday décor.

Wells Fargo Winter Skate Rink

4 p.m.- 5 p.m. Skating Demonstrations

5:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Open Ceremonies & Ribbon Cutting with The Wells Fargo Choir

6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.: FREE open skate and skate rental

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