THAT'S HOW WE ROLL

By Mariana Hernandez

Did you know that Long Beach now has 2 unique roller rinks? Or that we have one roller skating specialty shop with 14 different skate styles to choose from? And we have classes for kiddos that start as young as 4? How about our very own Badfish Roller Derby Team with 3.5K Facebook followers and growing? Here’s how you can participate in this vibrant community:

• First stop for littles on their roller skating journey is Rainbow Skate Society. Rainbow Skate Society offers lessons five days a week with group classes costing $200 for six-one hour sessions. Kids meet at the El Dorado West Hockey Courts and learn skating techniques, build confidence and develop community. “I’ve learned to go up ramps, down ramps, across ramps and jumps! I’ve learned to stay brave, don’t give up, try your best and work hard!” declares skate mini Sloan Lanzel (lead skater left photo) of her experience with the Rainbow Skate Society. Instagram: @rainbowskatesociety.

• Next stop is a roller rink done Long Beach-style! The newest rink is located at Junipero Beach, where the Pacific meets the pavement. After much anticipation but setback with delays, the rink has postponed their opening date. Visit longbeach.gov/juniperosportsproject for updates.

• Another great option for all skaters is Pigeon’s Roller Rink at 2nd & PCH. This rink has a retro vibe and while it is indoors, it also has all the feels of a cool outdoor experience. Although roller skating has temporarily halted to make space for Pixar Putt USA, skating at Pigeon’s Roller Rink will resume in February 2025. For more information including pricing, hours of operation, and private parties visit pigeonsrollerrink.com.

SHOP SMALL FOR ROLLER SKATE GEAR:

Pigeon’s Roller Skate Shop

2148 E. 4th St, 90814

Don’t stop us now! Skaters 18+ are welcome to join Long Beach’s very own Badfish Roller Derby Team. The team was founded in 2014; that’s 10+ years of hip whips, grand slams and power jams. Visit their website badfishrollerderby.com and see for yourself the fun these bada$$ roller babes are having, including their upcoming schedule and how to join (skaters of all skill levels are welcome). Not quite ready to roll with the Badfish? That’s quite alright; they’d love to have you enjoy the action from the sidelines.