Sip Boozy Hot Chocolate at Watergate’s Winter Ice Rink

D.C.’s iconic Watergate is getting into the holiday spirit this season, inviting guests to sip mulled wine and eat s’mores while gliding around its new rooftop ice rink.

Starting Thursday, November 16, its rooftop bar Top of the Gate will be rebranded as Top of the Skate — a transformation that includes adding a rectangular-shaped synthetic ice rink, wintery snacks ($10 to $20) such as hot pretzels and strombolis, and new hot and cold drinks ($16) such as spiked hot chocolate and a sherry-fueled Old Fashioned.

Weather permitting, the rink is projected to operate from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, and from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays. The rental fee is $20 for adults and $12 for kids, with nonprofit partner Mel’s Rink receiving part of the proceeds. Don’t know how to skate? There’s also group and private lessons offered on site.

Meanwhile, the hotel’s Next Whisky Bar is getting a sexy South Pole twist with the addition of fancy igloos, fitting up to eight and starting at $200 to rent.

Photo: The Watergate

The 12-foot, heated domes, located on the outdoor terrace of the bar, play host to different packages, like a dessert tasting menu with wine or tea pairings. Or turn the igloo into a man cave with a whiskey flight and burger package ($75 per person) rounded out by custom cigars co-created by former New York Knick John Starks.

Impress the significant other big time with a cozy “romantic night out” package ($375 a couple) with roses, gold leaf truffles, chocolate-covered strawberries, and a bottle of bubbly (the priciest: a $1,000 Dom Perignon Rose).

Afternoon tea service is another option. That offering, a new addition to the hotel’s lineup, is also served every weekend in the lobby from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Set to live piano performances, the service includes towers of savory and sweet treats, as well as a free glass of champagne and bottomless tea.