Dance music and light shows. They may conjure images of disco nightclubs in the 1970s but for one night this winter, they’ll be pulsating across an outdoor ice rink in downtown Farmington.

The annual Glow Skate event returns to Riley Park Ice Rink this Saturday, Jan. 19. It’s a family-friendly event with a heated pavilion, fire and s’mores, hot chocolate, glow sticks, and door prizes, to boot.

Expect a roller rink atmosphere, says Melissa Andrade, Assistant to the City Manager. In addition to the dance music and light show, an emcee will be on hand instructing skaters when it’s time to hold hands, skate the opposite direction, freeze in place, and other activities.

Andrade anticipates about 200 people to attend the event.

"These night-time events always draw bigger crowds than during the day," she says.

Of course, you never can tell with these things. An event held earlier this season, Harry Potter and the Holiday Skate, far exceeded expectations. Organizers planned for 200 skaters and were surprised when 700 people showed up.

"I didn’t expect it. It was amazing," Andrade says.

Following Glow Skate, a Karaoke Skate will be held on Groundhog Day, Feb. 2.

In addition to the events planned throughout the winter season, Riley Park Ice Rink remains free and open to the public, with hours running on Sundays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and weekends from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. While there are no skate rentals, a show of community has built up a collection of 20 to 30 pairs of ice skates that are available to the public on the honor system.

Glow Skate at Riley Park Ice Rink runs from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 19. Tickets are $5 per person or $20 per family.

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