Newark ‘Winter Village’ Has Ice Skating, Heated Igloos, Shopping

NEWARK, NJ — A popular winter village with ice skating, go-karts and heated “igloos” will return for the 2022 holiday season in Newark.

Last year’s winter village event drew thousands of revelers from across the city, and this year’s celebration promises to be just as fun, organizers said. The festive event at Mulberry Commons Park, located just outside the Prudential Center, will open on Friday, Nov. 25 and run until Jan. 31. It will be open from 3 to 8 p.m., Wednesdays to Sundays, and from 1 to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Learn more here.

Here’s what to expect, according to a news release from the Greater Newark Convention and Visitors Bureau:

“Visitors of all ages can enjoy ice skating, go-karts, various games and activities, an open-air holiday marketplace featuring local vendors, and cozy, heated, private igloos to enjoy hot cocoa and treats. There will also be many ‘Instagram-worthy’ photo-ops available throughout the winter village. In addition to fun winter activities, visitors can shop in the stylish open-air holiday marketplace with wares from local vendors. There will be food and sweet treats to purchase, as well as hot cocoa to warm you up after a few trips around the ice rink.”

Admission is free, but reservations and tickets are required for ice skating and private igloos. Reservations can be made online, and ticket fees are as follows:

• Ice Skating: $15 per adult (age 17 and up), $10 per child (under age 17)
• Igloo Rentals: $40 for 60-minute reservation

Ricardo Salazar, president and CEO of The Greater Newark Convention and Visitors Bureau, said the winter village has been a big hit with local families and visitors since it launched in 2020.

“We’re thrilled to offer this festive experience again at Mulberry Commons Park,” Salazar said.

Tim Sullivan, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, said the agency was happy to be a sponsor of this year’s winter village in Newark. See other sponsors here.

“The Winter Village not only supports Newark businesses, but also creates an exciting holiday season experience for people from all over New Jersey and beyond,” Sullivan said.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was among those who are excited to see the village return to the Brick City.

“We are happy to be able to offer festive activities in the heart of our city and support our local businesses through the holiday marketplace,” Baraka said.

• See related article: Drive-Thru Christmas Light Extravaganza Returns To Newark

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