Gabe Meline, KQED’s Senior Editor for Arts and Culture, shares his family's cherished Christmas Eve tradition at Snoopy's Home Ice, an iconic ice skating rink built by Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz. He describes the festive charm of this unique locale, adorned with a Swiss Alps theme, which has been a community favorite since 1969. Through nostalgic stories and emotional reflections, Gabe highlights the significance of this tradition, blending joy with the bittersweet realities of holiday gatherings, while preserving the rink's cultural legacy.
Snoopy's Home Ice, built by Charles Schulz in 1969, embodies a cherished holiday tradition, connecting generations through nostalgic skating experiences.
The rink serves as both a recreational facility and a community hub, hosting events that foster belonging and enrich Santa Rosa's local culture.
Deep dives
Snoopy's Home Ice: A Local Holiday Treasure
Snoopy's Home Ice in Santa Rosa represents a cherished holiday tradition for many families in the Bay Area. Built in 1969 by Charles Schultz, the creator of Peanuts, this indoor ice rink has remained largely unchanged over the decades, capturing the charm of a bygone era. During the holiday season, the rink transforms into a festive wonderland, featuring beautiful decorations like a Christmas tree on the ice and a Snoopy in a Santa outfit in the lobby. Visitors often recall fond memories of their childhood spent skating here, making it a special place that connects generations.
The Cultural Significance of Snoopy's Home Ice
Snoopy's Home Ice serves not only as a recreational facility but also as a community gathering space that fosters a sense of belonging. The venue has hosted various events, from birthday parties to public skating sessions, for decades, enriching the local culture. Many patrons, like Gabe Moline, hold personal ties to the rink, visiting as children and now returning with their own families. The combination of ice skating, festive treats from the adjacent Warm Puppy Cafe, and the nostalgic atmosphere creates a unique experience that resonates deeply with visitors.
Charles Schultz's Legacy and Local Lore
The influence of Charles Schultz on Santa Rosa extends beyond the ice rink, as he integrated elements of his life into the community. His connection to the city is highlighted by his involvement in the construction of Snoopy's Home Ice and the nearby Charles M. Schultz Museum. Despite the rink's serene exterior, tales of Schultz's personal challenges during its establishment add a layer of complexity to its history. The venue has also been a stage for local performances and events, linking the community through shared experiences that mirror the duality of joy and struggle often found in holiday narratives.
Santa Rosa is home to an ice skating rink unlike any other. In 1969, Snoopy’s Home Ice was built by Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz and his first wife Joyce. Since then, generations of Santa Rosa residents have visited and skated there — and it's extra special during the holiday season.
Today, KQED’s Gabe Meline takes us inside Snoopy’s Home Ice, where he goes to skate with his family every Christmas Eve.