Program · Sports & play

Free Learn to Skate Lessons at McCormick Tribune Ice Rink

When

Recurring / by appointmentSaturdays and Sundays 9–10 a.m. during the rink season (rink opens November 20, 2026), weather permitting; registration opens the Monday before each weekend.

Where

McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, Millennium ParkMillennium Park, N. Michigan Ave (between E. Randolph St and E. Monroe St), Chicago, ILOpen in Google Maps ↗

Ages

Skaters of any age; parents/guardians must register to accompany children on the ice

Cost

Free; skate rental free for lessons

Organizer

Chicago Youth Foundation with DCASE (City of Chicago)

During the Millennium Park rink season, the Chicago Youth Foundation teaches free ice-skating lessons on Saturday and Sunday mornings from 9 to 10 a.m., weather permitting. Classes are offered at three levels: beginner, intermediate and hockey skills; the hockey level is for people who can already skate in hockey skates and want basic hockey skills, so new skaters should pick beginner. Skate rental is free for the lesson. Each level is capped at 20 participants, registration opens on the Monday before each weekend, and parents or guardians who want to accompany a child on the ice must register for a lesson themselves. Arrive by 8:45 a.m.; registrations not checked in by 9 a.m. are released to walk-ups. Helmets are strongly encouraged for beginners. If a lesson is cancelled, registrants are emailed by 7 a.m. The lessons are funded by the McDonald's Active Lifestyles Endowment managed by the Millennium Park Foundation.