About Polar Dome

The Polar Dome Story

The Polar Dome began in 1962 as part of a major development at Santa’s Village. To make room for the 40,000-square-foot ice arena, part of the original park had to be moved. The Polar Dome opened in February 1963 and quickly gained national attention. At the time, it was the largest air-supported dome stadium in the world, holding up to 4,000 people, according to the Guinness World Book of Records.

Over the years, the Polar Dome hosted a variety of events, including performances by the International Showtime Circus with Don Ameche, Mark Wilson’s Magic Land of Allakazam, and the National Olympic Speed Skating Competition, which was filmed for ABC’s Wide World of Sports. It also welcomed the Chicago Black Hawks for practice sessions and exhibition games, along with countless ice-skating revues, hockey leagues, wrestling matches, concerts, and roller derby events.

Unfortunately, in 1966, a storm damaged the dome, tearing its inflatable cover. After repairs, a flat roof was added in 1967. The Polar Dome continued to operate seasonally, from September through April, until it closed in 2005 (with some operations running into early 2006). It served as a seasonal hub for Santa’s Village staff during the off-season. From 2007 to 2010, the space was used by various short-term businesses, and in 2010, it became home to indoor paintball and laser tag. Now, in 2024, the Polar Dome is being revived to once again serve as an ice-skating rink.

We look forward to seeing you soon out on the ice!