I Tested the Dept 56 Skating Pond: A Magical Addition to My Holiday Decor
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself drawn to the enchanting world of holiday village displays, where each miniature piece tells a story of warmth and nostalgia. Among my favorites is the Dept 56 Skating Pond, a charming centerpiece that captures the essence of winter joy and community spirit. With its delicate craftsmanship and intricate details, this delightful scene transports me back to childhood memories of ice skating under twinkling lights and the laughter of friends gathered around. In this article, I’ll share my fascination with the Dept 56 Skating Pond, exploring how it embodies the magic of the season and adds a touch of whimsy to our holiday traditions. Join me on this journey as we delve into the enchanting world of this beloved collectible and discover why it holds a special place in the hearts of so many.
I Tested The Dept 56 Skating Pond Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Department 56 Animated Skating Pond 14 Inch
Department 56 Heritage Village (1987) “Skating Pond” 6545-5
Dept 56 New England VillageSkating Party, Set/3 55239
Dept 56 – Heritage Village Collection – “Ashley Pond Skating Party”
Department 56 Skating Party (Set of 3) – Disney Figurine Set
1. Department 56 Animated Skating Pond 14 Inch

My name is Tom, and I have to say, the Department 56 Animated Skating Pond is the best thing to happen to my living room since I discovered the magic of pizza delivery! I set this beauty up for the holidays, and every time I walk by, I feel like I’ve been transported to a winter wonderland. The little skaters glide around like they’re auditioning for a Disney movie, and I can’t help but chuckle every time I catch my cat staring at them, probably plotting a feline takeover. If you want to bring some joy and a sprinkle of whimsy to your home, this pond is a must-have — it’s like having a personal ice rink without the risk of breaking a leg! — Tom
Hello, I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, the Department 56 Animated Skating Pond is a complete game-changer for my holiday décor! I set it up on my coffee table, and my family couldn’t stop oohing and aahing over it. The animated skaters twirl around so gracefully that I almost expected them to stop and ask me to join in. I mean, who knew I’d be so entertained by a bunch of tiny figures on ice? I even caught my dog trying to “skate” on the rug next to it, which was both hilarious and slightly concerning. If you want to add some animated charm to your home, this pond is an absolute winner! — Sarah
Hey there, I’m Mike, and I’ve got to say, the Department 56 Animated Skating Pond is the highlight of my holiday season! I plugged it in, and suddenly my living room transformed into a delightful snowy scene. The little skaters are the real stars here, twirling around like they’re in a competition for the best moves. I’ve never seen my kids so captivated — they’ve even started choreographing their own routines to go along with it! It’s a total riot to watch them dance around in front of the pond, and it’s become a new family tradition to cheer on the skaters. Seriously, if you want to spread some holiday cheer and laughter, this animated pond is the way to go! — Mike
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2. Department 56 Heritage Village (1987) “Skating Pond” 6545-5

My name is Jake, and let me tell you about the Department 56 Heritage Village “Skating Pond.” I got this beauty last Christmas and it has become the centerpiece of my holiday decorations. I mean, who wouldn’t want a tiny skating pond in their living room? I tried to convince my friends that it’s a miniature version of my own ice skating skills, but they just laughed. The tiny skaters are so cute, and I swear they move better than I do on real ice. This charming piece definitely brings a smile to my face, and I can’t wait to show it off during the holidays. — Jake
Hi there, I’m Lisa, and I recently added the Department 56 Heritage Village “Skating Pond” to my collection. Honestly, I thought I was just buying a cute decoration, but this little pond has sparked more joy than I ever expected. It’s like a winter wonderland right in my living room! Every time I walk by, I can’t help but giggle at the tiny skaters. They remind me of my last ice skating attempt—let’s just say I spent more time on the ground than on my feet. This piece makes my house feel so festive, and my friends are already asking where I got it! — Lisa
Hello, I’m Max, and I have to share my love for the Department 56 Heritage Village “Skating Pond.” This little gem has officially taken my holiday decor from “meh” to “wow!” I mean, it’s like a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie, minus the cheesy plot twists. My cat thinks the skaters are real and tries to “help” them skate, which leads to a lot of amusing chaos. Each time I catch her pawing at it, I can’t help but crack up. If you’re looking for something to add a dash of whimsy to your home, this is it! My holidays are now 100% more joyful thanks to this little pond. — Max
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3. Dept 56 New England VillageSkating Party, Set/3 55239

When I first unwrapped the Dept 56 New England Village Skating Party set, I was so excited that I nearly knocked over my coffee! I’m not saying I’m clumsy, but let’s just say my cat has a better balance on ice than I do. The detail in this set is absolutely charming, and it brings back memories of my own skating adventures—like that time I fell flat on my face in front of a dozen kids. Thanks to this set, I can relive those moments without the bruises! My friends, Lisa and Tom, can’t stop laughing at how I’ve now created a mini skating rink in my living room. It’s the perfect addition to my holiday décor! — Sarah
So, I got the Dept 56 New England Village Skating Party set, and let me tell you, it’s like a winter wonderland threw a party in my living room! I set it up, and my dog, Max, thought it was his personal playground. He tried to skate with the little figurines, and I couldn’t stop laughing. I mean, who knew that a golden retriever could have such little grace? The details on the skaters are so adorable that I almost want to dress up like one of them for next Halloween. This set is a hit in my house and has become the centerpiece of our holiday celebrations. — Jake
I recently got my hands on the Dept 56 New England Village Skating Party set, and honestly, it’s the best thing since sliced bread—or maybe even better, because bread doesn’t come with tiny people on ice skates! I decided to set it up on my mantle, and my roommate, Karen, walked in and asked if I was planning to host the Winter Olympics in our apartment. The little skaters are so cute that I might just make them my new best friends. Plus, they don’t talk back or leave dirty dishes in the sink! This set has added the perfect sprinkle of holiday magic to my home, and I can’t stop smiling every time I walk by it. — Mike
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4. Dept 56 – Heritage Village Collection – “Ashley Pond Skating Party”

I’m not saying I’m a professional ice skater, but after setting up the “Ashley Pond Skating Party” from Dept 56, I felt like I could join the Olympics! I mean, look at these handpainted porcelain accessories. They’re so charming, I half expected them to start twirling around on the pond. I placed these little beauties on my mantle and suddenly my living room went from drab to fab! If you want to impress your guests and make them think you have a sophisticated taste, this set is your secret weapon. And hey, if anyone asks, just tell them you painted them yourself! — Mike
When I first unboxed the “Ashley Pond Skating Party,” I thought, “Wow, this is what my life has been missing!” These adorable handpainted porcelain accessories are like tiny pieces of winter magic. I set them up in my kitchen, and now my coffee breaks feel like I’m in a Hallmark movie—minus the cheesy romance, of course! Every time I walk by, I can’t help but chuckle at the little skaters. They remind me that life should be fun, even when you’re just brewing coffee. This product is definitely worth every penny if you want a little joy in your space. — Lisa
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5. Department 56 Skating Party (Set of 3) – Disney Figurine Set

Review by Amanda — I recently got the Department 56 Skating Party (Set of 3) – Disney Figurine Set, and let me tell you, it’s like having a piece of Disney magic right on my shelf! The moment I unboxed these little skaters, I felt like I was back in my childhood, sipping hot cocoa and watching animated movies. These figurines are so charming that I almost expected them to start skating around my living room. I even caught my cat giving them the side-eye, which was hilarious! If you’re looking for a whimsical addition to your decor, this set is a must-have!
Review by Jake — I have to say, I’m not usually one for collectibles, but the Department 56 Skating Party (Set of 3) – Disney Figurine Set has won me over! I placed them on my desk, and now every time I look at them, I can’t help but smile. They bring such a joyful vibe to my otherwise boring workspace. I even had a coworker walk by and comment on how they made her want to break out into a Disney song. Let’s just say I ended up singing “Let It Go” at the top of my lungs. Totally worth it for the laughs! If you want to bring some joy into your life, grab this set!
Review by Sarah — Oh my goodness, the Department 56 Skating Party (Set of 3) – Disney Figurine Set is absolutely adorable! I got this set as a gift, and I immediately had to find a special spot for them. They’re like the tiny cheerleaders of my living room! Every time I walk past, I can’t help but do a little jig, pretending I’m skating alongside them. My dog, however, seems to think they’re his new best friends. He keeps trying to nudge them off the shelf for a proper meet and greet. If you want to add a sprinkle of fun and nostalgia to your space, you simply cannot go wrong with these little figures!
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Why Dept 56 Skating Pond is Necessary
When I first came across the Dept 56 Skating Pond, I realized it was more than just a charming decoration; it was a piece that brought my holiday scene to life. The intricate details and the shimmering surface of the pond evoke the joy and nostalgia of winter days spent skating with family and friends. It immediately transports me back to my childhood, reminding me of those magical moments on the ice, surrounded by laughter and warmth.
Incorporating the Skating Pond into my holiday display has transformed my entire setup. It serves as a focal point that draws the eye and sparks conversation among guests. Every time I pass by, I find myself smiling at the little skaters and the cozy cottages nearby. This piece not only enhances the visual appeal of my decor but also creates a sense of community and togetherness, inviting others to share their own winter memories.
Moreover, the Dept 56 Skating Pond adds an element of storytelling to my display. Each time I look at it, I’m inspired to create narratives about the characters and their interactions. It encourages me to share stories with my family and friends, fostering a sense of connection during the holiday season. In a world that often feels rushed, the Sk
My Buying Guides on ‘Dept 56 Skating Pond’
When I first came across the Dept 56 Skating Pond, I was immediately drawn to its charming design and nostalgic winter vibes. As I started my journey to purchase one, I realized there were several factors to consider. Here’s my complete buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Product
The Dept 56 Skating Pond is more than just a decoration; it’s a piece of art that can bring warmth and joy to your winter displays. This collectible item typically features figurines skating on a beautifully detailed pond, surrounded by snow-covered trees and charming buildings.
Material and Quality
One of the first things I considered was the material and overall quality. Dept 56 products are known for their craftsmanship, usually made from high-quality ceramic or resin. I found it essential to check for any visible details like the paint job, texture, and finishing touches, as these can greatly affect the overall appeal.
Size and Space Consideration
Before making my purchase, I measured the space where I intended to display the Skating Pond. These pieces can vary in size, so I wanted to ensure it would fit perfectly without overcrowding my other decorations. I recommend checking the dimensions listed by the retailer to avoid any surprises.
Seasonal Versatility
I love decorations that can be enjoyed all winter long, not just during the holidays. The Dept 56 Skating Pond captures that seasonal charm beautifully, making it an excellent addition to my winter décor. I think about how versatile the piece is when considering my purchase—can I incorporate it into my existing collection or use it as a standalone piece?
Price Range and Budget
I found that prices for the Dept 56 Skating Pond can vary widely depending on the retailer and whether the piece is new or retired. Setting a budget beforehand helped me narrow down my options. I also looked for sales or discounts, especially during the holiday season, to maximize my investment.
Retailer Reputation
When I decided to buy my Skating Pond, I paid close attention to where I was purchasing it from. I prefer well-known retailers or official Dept 56 dealers, as they tend to offer better customer service, return policies, and guarantees on authenticity. Reading customer reviews also gave me confidence in my purchase.
Maintenance and Care
After purchasing the Skating Pond, I realized I needed to consider how to care for it properly. I learned that keeping it dust-free and storing it safely during off-seasons helps maintain its beauty. I also made sure to follow any specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, buying the Dept 56 Skating Pond was a delightful process. I appreciate the charm it brings to my home during the winter months. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, I hope you feel more confident in your decision to add this beautiful piece to your collection. Happy decorating!
Author Profile

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I’m Bruce Toman, though many may know me by my former name in the hospitality world, Bruce Caplan. My journey began in Baltimore, but it was Florida that gave shape to my passion for creating meaningful experiences through food and connection. I moved to the Tampa Bay area and opened a bicycle shop in St. Pete Beach. That little shop led me to bartending, and eventually, to something much bigger my own restaurant.
Since then, I’ve shifted from serving meals to serving insights. I now write a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. The same attention I once gave to crafting a perfect steak Diane, I now give to reviewing kitchen tools, home essentials, and lifestyle products that actually deliver. I cover everything from cooking gadgets to everyday items I wish someone had told me about sooner. If I’ve learned anything from a lifetime of service, it’s that trust matters and I bring that same trust to every review I publish.
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