Syracuse (WSYR-TV) - The annual tree-lighting ceremony in Clinton Square could be missing a significant part of its tradition this year as the ice rink may not be ready for skaters.
Officials said on Wednesday that it’s unlikely that people will be able to skate on the surface when the tree is lit the day after Thanksgiving.
A thin layer of ice has been laid down, but some spots are already melting. The city parks and recreation commissioner says it is critical that the temperature is low enough to establish a base layer that is thick enough to allow for skating.
Regardless, city leaders say the lighting will go on with or without ice skating.
"I think the tree lighting is about bringing people together, community together, enjoying the entertainment that's there and just enjoying the season. So if we don't have ice skating, we're still going to have a celebration,” said Parks and Recreation Commissioner Baye Muhammad.
The mayor’s office says it will make the final call on Friday afternoon.
Although a base layer is in place, the mayor’s office is not optimistic that the optimal conditions for ice skating will be in place.
The tree-lighting ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. The event will feature music and a special appearance by Santa Claus.
The ceremony will be broadcast live on Digital Channel 9.2, Time Warner Cable 890, or Verizon FiOS 470. The event will also be streamed live on 9WSYR.com.
