(Photo Credit: Irvine Spectrum)

In Orange County, the summer atmosphere seems to permeate the landscape year round. Even in the winter, locals are hard-pressed to call this part of California a winter wonderland. That doesn’t mean one can’t experience a classic holiday escape amidst the palm trees and bright sunshine. Without having to drive past the county line, families and friends can get into the mood of winter by grabbing a pair of skates and enjoying some of the best ice skating rinks in the Southland.

(Photo Credit: Aliso Viejo Ice Palace)

Aliso Viejo Ice Palace
9 Journey
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
(949) 643-9648
Price: $13 admission/$4 for skate rentals
www.avicepalace.com

Aliso Viejo Ice Palace is the coolest place to go in Orange County for birthday parties or a slick night on the town with friends. Music videos and a color light show light up the ice in the evenings. If chilling on the ice makes you hungry, visit the full-service snack bar for food and drinks. This rink also offers skating lessons, broomball parties and a competitive hockey program for athletes of all ages.

(Photo Credit: KHS Ice Arena)

KHS Ice Arena
1000 E. Cerritos Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 502-9023
Price: $10 general admission/$3 for skate rentals
www.khsicearena.com

This year, trade in the boring workplace holiday potluck for a team-building game of broomball on ice. KHS Ice Arena hosts special corporate events and provides the brooms, balls, nets and ice needed for a night of friendly competition. If fraternizing with the co-workers isn’t your cup of tea, consider taking lessons in a solo sport such as singles figure skating. The on-site pro shop will keep you geared up for this winter sport any time of year.

(Photo Credit: Irvine Spectrum)

Irvine Spectrum’s Outdoor Ice Skating Rink
71 Fortune Drive
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 748-8280
Price: $14 admission and $3 for skate rentals
www.skatespectrum.com

Every year, adults and children may celebrate the holidays on Orange County’s only outdoor ice rink. The Irvine Spectrum Center presents its Holiday on Ice skating rink next to the Giant Wheel through Feb. 18. Families may purchase season passes, sign up for private lessons, or book the rink for private parties. Those family members who have had enough of the cold, slippery ice may get a head-start on their holiday shopping or catch the latest blockbuster at the movie theater nearby.

Related: Best Bets for Outdoor Winter Fun in and Around Los Angeles

Truc Dever is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.