and USA Hockey-sponsored learn-to-skate and learn-to-play programs. The goal is to identify households with children who have never skated or lack resources for hockey equipment, then create dedicated ice time and programming specifically for them. The refrigerated rink is expected to be installed as early as mid-to late-December. As of this writing, the location is still being finalized. Unlike natural ice, the refrigerated system has a consistent, reliable skating surface regardless of weather— crucial in a region where warm spells can derail even the best-laid winter plans. The rink is also mobile, giving Pittsfield future flexibility. Marchetti sees it as a positive steppingstone toward larger goals, such as reimagining Wahconah Park as a four-season destination.“ It was exciting to see a citizen come forward with this vision,” says Marchetti.“ Between Alex Regen and Jim McGrath, they hit the pavement and brought people together, five organizations stepping up to support outdoor recreation. Here is an example of the goodness in the community and the people that are always willing to work together to make a project succeed.”
Berkshire’ s Favorite Winter Showdown
Pittsfield ' s new rink represents community access, then the Berkshire Pond Hockey Classic represents a community celebration of healthy competition. Regen spearheaded the tournament, which began in 2023 and has quickly become one of the region ' s most anticipated winter traditions. Held at Benedict Pond in Beartown State Forest, the setting is postcard-perfect: snow-covered trees, fire pits, and the unmistakable joy of pond hockey.
The fourth annual tournament, once again presented by Berkshire Bank, is scheduled for Saturday, February 7 or 14, depending on weather and ice conditions.( Berkshire Magazine continues to be the media sponsor for the tournament.) Teams must commit to one weekend or the other as conditions dictate.
“ It’ s like threading a needle,” says Regen.“ You’ re planning for months and then hoping you get ice in that small window.”
Regen surveyed towns across Berkshire County and found that the average number of“ skateable” days on traditional, flooded-liner rinks has dropped to just six per season. On those rare days, the rinks are packed. That unpredictability is part of the magic as well as the challenge. At 1,579 feet elevation, Benedict Pond is one of the few places in the region that still reliably freezes deep enough for play.
A Regional Love Affair with Ice
While the Monterey pond ice hockey tournament and Pittsfield’ s new rink are generating a buzz, they’ re just one piece of the region’ s vibrant skating culture. The Peter W. Foote Vietnam Veterans Memorial Rink in North Adams offers year-round access, along with youth hockey leagues and public skate times, and Berkshire Rattlers Youth Hockey runs a Learn to Skate & Play program for children ages four to seven years old from the first weekend in December and through the last weekend in February at the Jackman L. Stewart Athletic Center on the Berkshire School campus in Sheffield.
Where to Skate and Play Hockey in the Berkshires
Pittsfield Outdoor Ice Rink New for Winter 2025. This 100-by-50-foot outdoor rink offers free community skating throughout the season. Check out the Pittsfield Ice Rink tab on berkshirepondhockeyclassic. com.
Benedict Pond( Beartown State Forest) Natural ice conditions vary; always check thickness before venturing out. Best access via Benedict Pond Road in Monterey. Home to the annual Berkshire Pond Hockey Classic.( berkshirepondhockeyclassic. com)
Boys & Girls Club of the Berkshires( Pittsfield) Home to the Berkshire Bruins youth hockey program, the club provides a structured environment for skill development and enjoyment of the sport. They also offer ice skating for various ages, including“ Learn to Skate,” house league hockey, and opportunities for figure skating and speed skating.( bgcberkshires. org)
Berkshire Rattlers Youth Hockey Program Learn to Skate & Play program for children ages 4-7 years old runs from the first weekend in December through the last weekend in February at the Jackman L. Stewart Athletic Center on the Berkshire School campus in Sheffield.( rattlersyouthhockey. com)
Monterey Fire Department Rink A beloved volunteer-maintained outdoor rink in the village center. Free skating when conditions allow. Small-town charm at its finest.( On Facebook, Monterey MA Outdoor Skating Rink)
Peter W. Foote Vietnam Veterans Memorial Skating Rink( North Adams) Indoor facility offering year-round skating, public sessions, and hockey programs. Visit berkshires. com for current schedule and admission fees.( northadams-ma. gov)
Natural Pond Skating
Onota Lake( Pittsfield), Stockbridge Bowl( Stockbridge), and Lake Buel( Great Barrington) are popular spots when ice conditions permit.
Ice Safety Reminder: Natural ice thickness should be at least 4 inches for skating and 5-7 inches for group activities. Check conditions daily, avoid areas with moving water, and never skate alone on natural ice. When in doubt, stay off the ice!
Holiday 2023 BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE // 97