As Pekin wraps up its bicentennial celebrations, the community is preparing for another significant milestone—50 years of figure skating showcases. The Pekin Park District’s Learn to Skate (LTS) Program will host its 50th annual Figure Skating Showcase on Saturday, March 8, at 11am at the Veterans Memorial Arena.

The Learn to Skate Program has been a fixture of the community for decades, offering skating lessons for all ages and skill levels. While the exact founding date of the program is debated, it likely began in the years following the construction of the Veterans Memorial Arena. The first figure skating showcase took place in 1975, marking the beginning of an annual tradition that has continued for five decades.

Each year, the showcase highlights the progress of the program’s skaters with themed performances featuring music from various decades, Broadway musicals, popular television shows, and movies. This year’s theme, “The Best of - 50 Years of Skating Excellence,” will celebrate the history of the program with performances inspired by past showcases. Skaters ranging from three-year-old beginners to seasoned adult skaters will take to the ice to demonstrate their skills in a series of choreographed routines.

The event is directed by Angie LaMere, a longtime Learn to Skate instructor who has been involved in the program for over 20 years. Under her leadership, the program has continued to thrive, providing quality instruction and fostering a love of skating among its participants.

“Without Angie’s dedication and the unwavering support of the Pekin Park District, this milestone would not be possible,” event organizers said.

Tickets for the 50th Spring Showcase will be available for purchase at Veterans Memorial Arena. Admission is $7 per person, with children under three admitted for free.

Join the Pekin community in celebrating five decades of figure skating excellence and supporting the talented skaters who bring this cherished tradition to life.