Snoopy’s Home Ice: A Skating Treasure
Snoopy’s Home Ice, the iconic Redwood Empire Ice Arena in Santa Rosa, California, stands as a testament to the magic of figure skating and community spirit. In 1969, Charles Schulz, the beloved creator of Peanuts, envisioned a space not just for ice sports but a gathering hub for all to enjoy. The heart of this establishment, skating director Kim Navarro, shares her reflections as she recounts the journey of this historic venue.
Upon moving to Santa Rosa from Minnesota, Schulz recognized the needs of the community. The original Santa Rosa Ice Arena, run by the Baxter brothers, faced closure due to structural issues. It was here that Schulz’s driven spirit came to life; he built a brand new rink as a sanctuary for skating enthusiasts of all ages.
Supported by his then-wife Joyce, Schulz aimed for more than just functionality. “We wanted a vibrant atmosphere, inspired by the Swiss Alps,” said Daniel Johnson, their grandson. The result was breathtaking, with architecture designed to mirror an Alpine village surrounded by towering redwoods.
Since opening its doors, Snoopy’s Home Ice has flourished—hosting a range of activities beyond typical ice skating offerings. The arena has been a stage for television specials, live concerts, and, most notably, the much-loved “Snoopy’s Wonderful Magical Christmas” performances featuring renowned skaters like Scott Hamilton and Dorothy Hamill.
Today, it continues to buzz with skaters of every level. Recent events include Scott Hamilton’s impactful Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer show and the Senior World Hockey Tournament, bridging the past with contemporary skating culture. An eyebrow-raising Saturday at the arena may span from competitive hockey, freestyle skating sessions, to birthday parties—all alive with shared joy. Snoopy, as always, remains a cherished mascot, often joining the Skating School celebrations.
Beyond hockey and skating, the venue’s surrounding campus features Snoopy’s Gallery and Gift Shop and the Charles M. Schulz Museum, creating a cultural hub dedicated to Schulz’s legacy. The ambiance breathes excitement—one patron remarked on a typical Saturday, “What’s going on today? There are so many people!” Indeed, Snoopy’s Home Ice isn’t merely a rink; it’s a blend of nostalgia and vitality.
As Kim Navarro poignantly reflects on her roots at Snoopy’s, this arena symbolizes the ongoing evolution of the sport and its capacity to bring people together, showcasing why it remains a remarkable destination in the world of professional figure skating.
“It’s more than just an ice arena; it’s a historical gem,” emphasized General Manager Tamara Stanley. With vibrant murals and rich history coursing through its walls, Snoopy’s Home Ice is undoubtedly the heart of the Santa Rosa skating community.
