Written by Cherry Ngo (Class of 2024) and the DVGS Editorial Team
Photos by Erica Lai (Class of 2024)

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. For many this means Christmas and all the winter wonders. For IGDVS students, this means the annual opening of the ice-skating rink in downtown Ukiah. “Ukiah On Ice” has been a long-standing tradition of DVGS. However, due to COVID, this beloved excursion had been postponed for more than two years — thus, everyone was overjoyed and excited at the opportunity to go ice-skating.

The cars were filled with light chatter and Christmas jingles, as the students made their way towards one of Ukiah’s most popular seasonal attractions. Downtown Ukiah was decorated lavishly with lights, inflated snowmen, and candy canes. The all-time favorite winter song, “All I Want for Christmas is You,” filled the air with holiday cheer.

Soon, the girls found themselves on the ice skating rink, enjoying the thrill of gliding and spending quality time with friends. Despite initial nervousness and occasional falls, they got back up every time and began opening up to the calming sport. When it got too cold, they hopped off the rink for a cup of steaming hot chocolate or glistening candy canes.

Ukiah on Ice was a holiday miracle come true; after a couple of exhilarating hours on the ice, the students felt cheerful and content as they returned home.

Special thanks to all the teachers and parents who made this excursion possible! Happy holidays!