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It was a night for superheroes at “Family Skate” event at Watts Center Jan. 7 in Glencoe

Parents and children were seen wearing colorful capes. Spider-Man and Gus, the plush pup, were on hand to welcome families at the Friday night event.

“Without many safe outdoor winter activities, we started our Friday night family skates in 2020 as a fun outlet for all ages,” said Erin Classen, superintendent of marketing and communications for the Glencoe Park District. “Family Skate Nights quickly became one of the most popular weekly events in Glencoe.

She said each week, visitors are invited to enjoy music and activities that match the evening’s theme. Other upcoming themed skate nights include: TikTok Night on Jan. 14; Disney Skate on Jan. 21; Blackhawks Night Jan. 28; Decades Party on Feb. 4; Snoopy’s Sweetheart Skate on Feb. 11; Moana’s Ice Luau on Feb. 18; and Feb. 25 Highlighter Party.

Admission is limited to season pass holders.

“Our goal is to provide events that enrich lives, build community and create memorable experiences,” Classen said. “Family Skate Nights does just that. … The outdoor environment, paired with fun activities, gives visitors a welcome sense of community and togetherness.”

Julie Lissner, of Glencoe, right, ice skates with her child Flynn, 3 during “Family Skate Night” Jan. 7, 2022 at Watts Center in Glencoe. The night’s them was superheroes.
Gus, the plush character, was on hand at Family Skate Night Jan. 7, 2022 at Watts Center in Glencoe.
Gus, the plush character, was on hand at Family Skate Night Jan. 7, 2022 at Watts Center in Glencoe.
Mary Kate Knapp, 5, of Winnetka, was on the ice rink with her father, Tim Knapp for “Family Skate Night” Jan. 7, 2022 at Watts Center in Glencoe.

Mary Kate Knapp, 5, a preschooler from Winnetka, was eager to see Spider-Man. The youngster and her brother,Rory Knapp, 9, were accompanied by their father, Tim Knapp. The siblings wore festive superhero capes.

“Watts is a great resource for the community, and we love coming out here,” Tim Knapp said. “It’s good for our whole family.”

Julie Lissner, of Glencoe skated with her 3-year-old, Flynn.

“He loves Spider-Man,” Julie Lissner said about Flynn, and she thanked the Park District for hosting the event.

The outdoor rinks at Watts are open daily through February.

Daily admission is offered on weekdays, but a season pass is needed for admission to Family Skate Night events and weekend skating. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, only the outdoor rinks are accessible to the public.

Karie Angell Luc is a freelancer.