The GUM ice rink on Red Square in Moscow is slated to open on November 29, according to RIA News. The seasonal attraction has become a beloved winter staple for residents and visitors, drawing families, couples, and tourists who want to glide beneath the iconic spires and historic facades. The rink’s opening signals the city embraces winter with a festive spirit, offering a playful contrast to the surrounding historic architecture and bustling city streets.
Last year, the ice rink opened on November 29 and stayed open through February 28, turning Red Square into a lively winter stage. After the season, the GUM Ice Rink and the GUM Fair were dressed in Gzhel style decorations, a traditional craft heritage that adds a touch of artisanal charm to the seasonal experience. The aesthetic transformation highlights Moscow’s appreciation for artful, cultural details that enhance visitors’ memories of the city during the colder months.
The GUM ice rink is located on Red Square and will be opened for the eighteenth time this year. A distinctive feature is the ability to skate even when temperatures hover above freezing. The ice is kept solid by six kilometers of cooling pipes, which ensures the surface remains stable enough to resist melting up to about +10 °C. This engineering feat makes the rink reliable for late autumn and early winter skating, expanding the window for outdoor fun as schedules and weather cooperate.
In parallel, the city previously announced that a charity festival would take place in Moscow on November 11-12. The WOOF charity festival will be hosted at the Graphite City Cultural Center, aiming to support shelter animals. More than 80 dogs and 150 cats are expected to participate in activities that promote adoption and responsible pet ownership. The festival focuses on connecting city residents with homeless animals and demonstrates practical ways to assist shelters, such as donating food, treats, blankets, and medical supplies. Attendees will also find a dedicated collection point for gifts for shelter animals, fostering a community-driven effort to improve the welfare of stray and rescued animals during the colder months.
Earlier, the Hydrometeorology Center issued a warning to Muscovites about a sudden drop in temperature, advising residents to prepare for sharp weather changes. The advisory underscored the importance of appropriate clothing, wind protection, and safe, comfortable outdoor activity planning as daily life adjusted to fluctuating conditions. The forecast encouraged people to verify rink conditions and outdoor event schedules, ensuring enjoyment without compromising safety during the transition into winter weather.