Mexicans get their skates on

Updated 23.30 Tue Dec 02 2008
Keywords: live nativity, Zocalo Square, flashing, lights, mosaics, festive, economy, Christmas tree, concerts, Mexico city, families, slide, world record, kids, Christmas, toboggan, snow, skaters, ice skates, ice rink, ice, credit crunch, Mexico

Latin America has largely missed out on winter sports but people in Mexico City are making up for lost time.

For the second year, running the Mexican capital has opened what it claims to be the largest ice rink in the world.

The city's historic main Zocalo square has been turned into a massive winter wonderland

The city's historic main Zocalo square has been turned into a massive winter wonderland.

As well as the ice rink, measuring 10,498sq ft, the city government has also erected a 164ft tall Christmas tree and a toboggan slide with real snow.

Mexico City Mayor Marcelo Ebrard said the rink - which drew millions of visitors last year - provides entertainment for families with little income during the festive season.

The project is funded by private donations and is free for the public, who sometimes have to wait long hours for the opportunity to test their skating skills.

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