Once a relatively obscure sport in the U.S., curling has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity in recent years, boosted by Team USA’s win at the 2018 Winter Olympics. And starting January 15, you can live out your Olympic Games fantasy by trying your hand at curling at The Wharf.
Curling and Cocktails is a free event hosted at The Wharf Ice Rink, where you can test your aim at pushing some 42-pound stones while sipping cocktails with friends.
Curling matches begin at 7, 8, and 9 p.m. every Wednesday from January 15 to February 19. Each match runs for approximately one hour.
If you aren’t familiar with the game, curling is a Canadian-born team sport in which players slide a heavy stone toward a target, using a brush to sweep in front of the stone to keep it on a straight path. Don’t worry — no prior curling experience is required to participate.
Matches are played in groups of four, so start by inviting three friends. After finalizing the roster, tickets can be booked online the week before your preferred session. Because curling requires participants to slide along the ice, the sport is best performed with closed-toe, flat-heeled shoes. A winter jacket and outdoor clothing are also recommended.
Although teams are limited to four participants, spectators can attend and cheer on the teams. Concessions and beverages are available at a rink-side concession stand and at nearby bar Cantina Bambina.
This event is free, and newcomers and the curling-curious are encouraged to join. Online registration is recommended, though walk-ins may be accepted if there is space. The matches won’t be held to regulation specifications, so the vibe is laidback and educational — only bragging rights are at stake.
Lace up some flat-heeled shoes, perfect your sweeping technique, and take advantage of this entertaining winter sport with Curling and Cocktails at The Wharf. 970 Wharf St. SW, Washington, DC
Feature image courtesy The Wharf
