Behind the Scenes: How CDA on Ice Transforms McEuen Park
Every winter, something magical happens in the heart of downtown Coeur d’Alene. McEuen Park, known for its wide-open lawns, massive playground and sports courts, and views of Lake Coeur d’Alene and Tubbs Hill, takes on an entirely new identity. From November through January, it becomes home to CDA on Ice, a full outdoor skating rink that feels straight out of a holiday movie.
For most of our guests who arrive after the snow begins to fall, the rink appears ready-made: twinkling lights, smooth ice, cozy igloos, yummy snacks, and festive music. But behind the scenes, weeks of planning, building, and teamwork go into turning this summer playground into the city’s most beloved winter attraction. Here’s how it all comes together.
Building a Rink From the Ground Up
Transforming McEuen Park into an ice arena starts long before the first snow falls. Crews bring in a massive rink system designed specifically for outdoor skating. The foundation is carefully leveled, and refrigeration lines are laid down to keep the ice solid no matter what the North Idaho weather is during skating season. We also embed a light string into the surface that will glow in vibrant colors through the ice when it’s all complete.
Water is then layered slowly and evenly to freeze, creating the smooth skating surface visitors expect. It’s a process that takes patience and precision; rushing it would mean bumpy, uneven ice. By the time opening day arrives, the rink has been tested, resurfaced, and polished to perfection.
Lighting Up the Season
Of course, it’s not just about the rink. CDA on Ice is known for its festive atmosphere, and that starts with holiday lights adorning the rink and the pavilion. Strings of bulbs and glowing features are hung high above the rink, turning McEuen Park into a sparkling centerpiece for downtown. At night, the glow reflects on the ice and complements our colorful rink, making the entire arena feel magical.
The lighting design isn’t just for looks; it also helps create a safe, inviting space for skaters of all ages when evening descends. Every detail is considered so that families, couples, and friends can enjoy the rink long after the sun sets (which is pretty early in this part of the country).
The Igloos: A Cozy Touch
Another behind-the-scenes effort? The popular private igloos. These heated domes don’t just appear overnight. Each one is carefully assembled, furnished, and tested for comfort before guests ever step inside.
Crews make sure heaters are working properly, seating is arranged, and every dome is stocked with the little extras that turn it into a perfect retreat from the cold. It’s those thoughtful details that bring warmth, comfort, and privacy that make igloos one of the most sought-after features at CDA on Ice.
Keeping the Ice Perfect
Once the rink is open, the work behind the scenes doesn’t stop. Maintaining an outdoor ice surface is a daily challenge. Crews resurface the rink multiple times a day, filling in cuts from skates and keeping everything smooth. Weather is constantly monitored, and adjustments are made when snow, rain, or sudden temperature swings threaten the ice surface.
In addition to the ice maintenance, we keep our skates clean and in top shape, stock our concession stand, clean the igloos, neaten up the tables, make sure all the heaters are working, help with event planning, and inspect every element of the CDA on Ice facility to make sure every visitor has a positive experience, Guests may never notice, but this behind-the-scenes effort is what keeps CDA on Ice an enjoyable experience all season long.
More Than Just a Rink
It’s easy to think of CDA on Ice as just a skating rink, but the transformation of McEuen Park is about more than skating. It’s about creating an occasion to make beautiful memories for family members, couples, and friends that will last for a lifetime. Sharing a loaded hot cocoa with your little daughter her first time skating, going on a romantic first date, laughing with visiting family over the holidays in a cozy igloo: each piece is part of a bigger whole that brings the community together and amazingly makes winter a season of warmth in this corner of Idaho.
A Seasonal Transformation Worth Experiencing
By the time the rink opens in November, McEuen Park will no longer be just a park but a winter destination. Behind the lights, the igloos, and the perfect ice is a dedicated team working to deliver more than just skating. They’re creating an experience that transforms a public park into a Coeur d’Alene tradition.
Come by McEuen Park and see the transformation for yourself as we set up for our November opening. CDA on Ice runs from November 7 through January 19; tickets and igloo reservations are already on sale online, and there’s still time to become a sponsor or book a private party. Contact us or visit our website to check hours, reserve your spot, and be part of the magic this winter.