Loveland Gelato Shop Launches Specialty Hot Chocolate Menu as Ice Rink Opens for Winter Season

Paciugo Gelato & Coffee will introduce a new line of artisan hot chocolates on November 22 as the Loveland Ice Rink opens for its winter season at the Promenade Shops at Centerra.

The gelato shop's "Over the Top" hot chocolate menu features ten specialty beverages combining house-made hot chocolate with handcrafted gelato, candy, cookies, and seasonal toppings. The launch coincides with the shop's 17th year operating at the Centerra shopping district.

The Loveland location at 5971 Sky Pond Drive opened in 2008 as part of the Dallas-based Paciugo franchise, which was founded in 2000 by Italian immigrants seeking to bring authentic gelato to American markets. The shop has remained under local private ownership throughout its tenure in Loveland.

The seasonal ice rink operates adjacent to Paciugo and other retailers at Centerra through late January or early February. According to City of Loveland announcements, the rink is open Thursday and Friday from 4 pm to 9 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm, with extended hours during school breaks and holidays.

Admission costs $12 per person including skate rental, with children under 4 admitted free with a paid adult. Discounts are available for groups larger than 10, active military personnel, seniors, and local nonprofit organizations.

The outdoor rink draws thousands of skaters each winter from Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, and surrounding communities. City surveys indicate high satisfaction among residents, who cite affordability and accessibility as key factors in the attraction's popularity.

Community events at the rink typically include live music performances and holiday celebrations throughout the season. The facility provides accessibility features for skaters with disabilities and offers private party bookings outside regular operating hours.