Franciscan Polar Plaza, the popular covered, open-air ice rink in the heart of downtown Tacoma at Tollefson Plaza, will return this year, organizers announced Tuesday.

Beginning Fri., Nov. 23 through Sun., Jan. 6, the community is invited to skate and embrace the spirit of the season. The rink will be 20 percent larger than last year. The seating area will also be larger to accommodate more skaters and their watchful friends and relatives.

Admission will be eight dollars and two dollars for skate rental. Military members and seniors (65 and older) receive one dollar off admission. Skates will be available in a variety of sizes, from a child’s size eight through an adult size 14. There will be music and warm holiday refreshments such as coffee, tea, and hot chocolate for sale at Franciscan Polar Plaza. There will also be a chance to buy your holiday tree at 25Trees. Keep an eye out for special themed nights, live music performances, art activities, and more.

New to this year’s holiday tradition is the Polar Plaza Express, a small train that visitors ride from the Washington State History Museum to Tacoma Art Museum. The train will roll down Pacific Avenue Dec. 21-24, as well as Dec. 26, between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closing early at 1 p.m. on Dec. 24). Riders may hop on board for two dollars each way; there’s a discounted rate of one dollar for members of the Washington State History Museum and Tacoma Art Museum.

“We heard a lot of positive comments [about Polar Plaza] from the community,” said Franciscan Health System’s Gale Robinette. “Our mission is to create healthier communities. This gives families a place to spend quality time together during the holidays.”

“We hope to welcome 18,000 skaters to the new and improved rink,” said Cameron Fellows, Deputy Director of Tacoma Art Museum. “With more space to skate, more seating, better ice, and some great community partnerships, it’s going to be a lot of fun.”

Event sponsors include Franciscan Health System, Tacoma Art Museum, Columbia Bank, Titus-Will, and Korsmo Construction.

Anyone interested in volunteering at Polar Plaza should call (253) 722-2454 or e-mail PolarPlaza@TacomaArtMuseum.org to take part in this event. Those interested in participating as a sponsor can call (253) 722-2455 or e-mail Contributions@TacomaArtMuseum.org.