Advice for Attending Live Figure Skating Events

A few useful tips for first-time fans!

• Bring a portable phone charger.

• Wear layered clothing so you can take them off or put them on whenever you want. Arenas might be cold if there aren’t many people, but it’s usually not very cold when they’re full. It depends on the arena size as well.

• The arena may or may not let you bring your own water bottle. You should check with them to make sure.

• You are allowed to arrive late and leave early. Find your seats in between skaters’ performances to create less of a distraction.

• If you have all-event tickets, we recommend attending practices if you can, it’s interesting to watch how skaters practice.

• Wrap your presents carefully, so they don’t fall apart when you throw them onto the ice. Some events (especially ice shows) might not let you throw presents onto the ice at all; it’s best to check with the organizers beforehand.

• You might need to leave your seat in order to throw your present, if you’re sitting too far up.

• Flash photography is not allowed; it is distracting and dangerous for the skaters. Non-flash photography is usually allowed, but check with the event organizers to make sure. Some events may not allow spectators to take photos or video at all.

• Some events will let you hang banners for skaters around the arena, some won’t. Some have size restrictions for the banners. Contact the venue beforehand to make sure.

• You might run into skaters wandering around the concourse or sitting in the stands watching other events. Most skaters will not mind if you approach them, but be polite and read the room!

• Sometimes medalists will sign autographs and take photos with fans after the medal ceremony. You’ll have to get down to the boards as fast as possible in order to have a chance!

• Cheer loudly! Skaters love to hear your support!