On Feb. 27, Butler Street in Etna was shut down and transformed into a public ice rink for the day. The free annual event is held for all to come and take a spin on the outdoor rink placed in front of the Rear End Gastropub and Garage.
The weather was beautiful, with sunny skies and slightly warmer temperatures, which made for a picturesque day for young and old to tie on skates and have some fun.
Many businesses opened their doors on a day they would usually be closed to take advantage of the increase in foot traffic from the event.
“We had a beautiful day for our outdoor free skate,” said Etna borough manager Mary Ellen Ramage. “It was great seeing so many of our businesses open for the event as well.”
Ramage also thanked the fire department and the borough’s public safety and public works departments for their effort in making the day a success.
The Etna Fire Department was on hand with a small campfire, roasting smores for the crowd that gathered to either skate or watch others.
For those that had their own skates but needed them sharpened, the service was offered for free.
“We are grateful for all our partners in the annual event, including the Etna Economic Development Corporation for their financial support of this event, all part of our Active Allegheny program to get our kids out and exercising in the winter,” Ramage said.
