Rockford, Ill.- This weekend the Rockford IceHogs are partnering with the Belvidere Park District to celebrate the grand opening of Riverside Ice Arena at Doty Park in Belvidere.

Hammy will help kick off Grand Opening festivities on Friday, Dec. 4 by walking in the parade to the new outdoor rink. The parade starts at 5:30 p.m. at the corner of State and Madison in Belvidere and ends at Riverside Ice Arena at 365 W. Locust Street.

On Saturday, Dec. 5, forwards Kyle Baun and Ryan Haggerty will be at the arena at 1:30 p.m. to sign autographs and take pictures will fans. Throughout the weekend the Belvidere Park District will be giving away IceHogs tickets, as well as a signed jersey.

The community will be able to enjoy food specials, activities for the entire family, as well as free skating all weekend long at the only outdoor hockey rink in the region. Festivities will be held Friday, 4 p.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

For more information, visit the Belvidere Park District website at http://belviderepark.org/riverside-ice-arena/