When tradition met innovation, winter at Harvard became more sustainable, more joyful, and more community-focused than ever before.
Winter at Harvard University has always been about connection—between students, faculty, and the broader Cambridge community. But this past season, the university did something entirely new: they turned their iconic plaza into a sparkling winter destination using a Glice synthetic ice rink—complete with colorful bumper cars, cozy fire pits, and a welcoming atmosphere that drew crowds from across Massachusetts and beyond.
“Glice was a great way to bring some spark to the winter season.”
— Lara E. Abrams, Associate Director, Common Spaces
From Ice Rink Problems to Eco-Friendly Possibilities
In previous years, Harvard operated a traditional ice rink. However, recurring issues—like the high cost of operations, the challenges of maintenance, and eventual damage to the structure—meant it was no longer a viable solution. When it came time to plan the next chapter of their annual Winter Fest, the team turned to Glice synthetic ice as a way to keep the fun alive without the logistical burdens.
Glice offered a perfect fit: no water, no energy, and no refrigeration required. That meant a significantly smaller carbon footprint and the ability to set up quickly and efficiently in an urban space. And unlike traditional ice that melts, breaks down, or needs constant repair, Glice’s durable surface remained pristine and skate-ready from January through March, perfectly timed to welcome students back from winter break.
Beyond sustainability, Harvard provided a reliable foundation for creative programming. This year’s centerpiece? Something Massachusetts had never seen before…
A First in the State: Ice Bumper Cars on Synthetic Ice
When planning Winter Fest, Harvard’s goal wasn’t just to replace a rink—it was to reimagine the experience entirely. So instead of traditional skating, the team introduced something playful, eye-catching, and entirely new: ice bumper cars gliding on synthetic ice.
“The rink was a huge success. It was a great program.”
— Lara E. Abrams
This innovation was a regional first—nobody had brought bumper cars on synthetic ice to Massachusetts before. The effect was electric: glowing bumper cars zoomed across the rink each evening, lighting up the plaza and delighting students and visitors alike. The setting was immersive and joyful, with fire pits to warm up, s’mores to roast, and free hot chocolate served weekly. Staff used microphones to interact with the crowd and set the tone with music, turning the plaza into an energetic hub of laughter and movement.
The result wasn’t just a skating rink—it was a multi-sensory winter experience, designed to uplift spirits, invite play, and foster community.
Visibility Meets Community Impact
The location of the Glice rink was no accident. Harvard’s plaza is a high-traffic area where students naturally pass on their way to class, the dining hall, or the food trucks that are stationed there year-round. By placing the rink in the middle of this movement, the installation captured attention from the start.
But visibility extended far beyond the university. A series of radio ads promoted the event to the broader public, and the response was immediate.
“After playing the radio spot, the user type shifted from Harvard students to families from the area.”
Soon, it wasn’t just locals stopping by—the rink attracted visitors from other towns and even other states. They came for the bumper cars, the ambiance, and the chance to experience something fresh and fun in the middle of winter. It became more than an event—it was a seasonal destination.
“Everyone was thrilled about this gift for the community… and it was uplifting to have it out there at this time.”
Elevated Ambience and Seamless Operation
Operating from January through March, the rink was open daily until 7 p.m. Demand was so strong that organizers often had to stop ticket sales by 5 p.m. to ensure everyone got a turn.
“We ran the rink until 7p, every day and had to oftentimes stop selling tickets at 5pm to get everyone in.”
And yet, what could have been a logistical challenge ran smoothly. Glice’s clean and professional design fit naturally into the historic campus setting, and the setup was praised by organizers for both its aesthetics and ease of operation.
“It was visually very beautiful with the cars lighting up and fire pits.”
“It really elevated the experience of coming to the plaza.”
Why Glice Is a Game-Changer for Universities and Schools
The success of Harvard’s winter program offers a glimpse into the growing potential of synthetic ice for educational institutions. With Glice, schools and universities can create vibrant, inclusive, and eco-conscious winter experiences—without the limitations and costs of traditional ice.
Benefits include:
- 🌱 Sustainability: Operate without water, refrigeration, or waste
- 💡 Innovation: Introduce unique activities like bumper cars or curling
- 🧊 Reusability: Use the same surface for years to come
- 🎓 Engagement: Attract students, faculty, alumni, and the wider public
- 🧾 Cost savings: Reduce long-term maintenance and energy costs
For campuses looking to create meaningful, memorable winter moments, Glice is more than just an ice alternative—it’s a catalyst for creativity and community.
Let’s Build Something Magical Together
Harvard’s Glice rink was a celebration of innovation, inclusion, and fun. Whether you’re planning your own Winter Fest, looking to increase campus engagement, or exploring eco-friendly recreation options, we’re here to help you bring it to life.
👉 Learn more about our rinks at Educational centers
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