You just don't see this very often: the extra cold winter conditions we've seen for the last few weeks made it possible for folks to get out on a frozen C&O Canal this weekend for actual skating, hockey, etc. Flickr user stefan41 has a whole big photoset of all the action, but here's the two shots that were added to our DCist Flickr pool. more ›

When last we checked with the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden Ice-Skating rink, the official start of the season had been indefinitely delayed due to "technical difficulties with the ice-making equipment." But good news has at last been posted to the rink's web site: it's now set to open on Thursday, December 10, "weather permitting." Tomorrow's forecast looks pretty safe for skating, so we're optimistic. more ›

Outdoor ice-skating at the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden rink may be a uniquely Washington activity for working off extra holiday calories, but it won't be an option this Thanksgiving weekend. According to the ice rink's guest services office and a note on their web site, the Sculpture Garden rink remains closed due to "technical difficulties with the ice-making equipment." A representative explained that while they hope repairs will be completed within 10-14 days, there is a chance that the rink may not open at all this season – typically mid-November to March – if the problem turns out to be more extensive. While the Pavilion Cafe remains open, we're hoping ice-skating will be back soon. more ›