New York Events

Green is the color of the season, and not just for Christmas trees. Guests of New York City events can now take part in a favorite winter pastime in a much more environmentally-friendly way, thanks to the city's new, state-of-the-art Polar Rink.

Situated on the Arthur Ross Terrace at the American Museum of Natural History, the 12,000-square-foot rink is not your average skating rink, which requires a great deal of electric energy to keep the ice cold. Rather it's made of a synthetic material that mimics the density of frozen water and thus doesn't waste energy with refrigeration. Plus, the rink surface can be reused year after year, or recycled when it gets worn out.

Also good news for first-time skaters? It makes for a much softer landing than ice.

Up to 200 guests at a time can enjoy this New York attraction, which is outfitted with colorful lights and 17-foot-tall illuminated polar bear. Non-skaters can also observe their friends and family indoors or out, whether from the benches surrounding the rink or the glassed-in North Terrace, where they can enjoy hot chocolate and snacks.

Open until March 1, 2009, the Polar Rink is another option for memorable winter outings at New York events.