Skating Under The Stars in Palos Hills

was full of skaters Saturday night as area families took advantage of the second annual Skate Under The Stars.

Ald. Joe Marrotta organized and funded the event.

"It gives the kids the chance to get outside and get some exercise during the winter," Marrotta said.

The ice was divided in half, with a pick-up hockey game on one side and families skating on the other. The park was given a sheet of ice by the public works department.

"It's nice to have everyone here, we are having a fantastic time," said Melissa Stiegal of Hickory Hills.

The improvised ice rink takes advantage of an area of land that was previously unused.

"I had the park put in because I figures if this space was here we might as well use it for something," Marrotta said.

Skaters huddled around the fire and drank hot chocolate to stay warm on  the cold night. The event is in its second year and draws area children from Palos Hills, Hickory Hills and Bridgeview.

Marrotta hopes it continues to grow.