Three times this academic year, Princeton's Baker Rink opened its doors for Skate Night, a late-night event open to Princeton students.
From 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., students enjoyed a festive atmosphere that included music, hot chocolate and cider, and the opportunity to take the ice. For some students, this was their first experience on ice skates, and for others it was a chance to share something they love.
Each event featured a particular theme, including an ugly sweater competition that is featured in this video profile of the Dec. 9 Skate Night. The theme of the most recent event, held March 3, was a tribute to Michael Jackson. The first Skate Night was held Nov. 16.
Students used their TigerCards to check out a pair of skates at the rink at no cost. A local community partner lent its inventory of skates to Princeton for the events.
"What is important here is just the genuine joy that I see and the smiles on everybody," Princeton's Director of Athletics Gary Walters said at the December event.
The Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students organized the Skate Night program, which also was sponsored by Campus Recreation, the Department of Athletics and the Alcohol Initiative.