By Peter Covino

Entertainment Editor

The UCF campus has also got that holiday spirit with the return of Light Up UCF.

Every day through Jan. 2, there are light shows, ice skating, rides and more in the area surrounding the UCF Arena.

This year’s free light show features almost 75,000 lights pulsing to music during the light shows.

Directly across from the arena is the ice rink pavilion, where a DJ “rinkmaster” spins the latest hits and holiday songs. The ice rink is open for public skating, as well as group bookings, birthday parties and private parties. Rink times are Monday-Thursday 5-10 p.m.; Friday 5-midnight; Saturday, 11 a.m. - midnight; Sunday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Also at the skate pavilion is the Arctic Glide Ice Slide, a 100 foot long ice luge.

Other attractions at Light Up UCF include a giant ferris wheel and a carousel; Santa’s Workshop, where you can get a photo taken with Santa; the Holiday Santa Train; and the Community Performance Stage with local musicians, area high school bands and choirs and the UCF Marching Knights.

The campus also hosts free movies on select nights throughout the event. Classic holiday films are shown on a two-story outdoor screen. Bring a blanket or chairs. The movies begin at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Saturday’s film is Fred Claus.

Several ticket options are available for ice skating, rides and Santa. The light show and movies are free.

There is more information on tickets and more at www.lightupucf.com.

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Kissimmee’s own version of Light Up UCF debuts at Osceola Heritage Park this weekend. The new event will be held daily through Jan. 9.

The Wonderland of Lights Holiday Spectacular drive-through show features a holiday village and photos with Santa Claus; an ice skating rink; holiday treats; train rides and holiday movies.

Ticket prices are $20 per car and will be available at the gate. There will be more information on the show coming soon.