A winter wonderland is coming to NIU, and students will be able to enjoy it without having to withstand single-digit temperatures.

The Campus Activities Board is sponsoring an ice skating gala, where students can ice skate indoors at the Chick Evans Fieldhouse from 5 to 9 p.m. tonight.

“We want to give [students] a taste of winter without freezing,” said Demetrius Strong, CAB associate vice president of special events.

CAB president Byron Neal said he hopes to give students a unique opportunity to get together.

“It’s still the winter season,” Neal said. “We wanted to give students a chance to enjoy ice skating indoors.”

Neon Entertainment is providing a full-size specialized iceless skating rink that can be used indoors, and students will be able to enjoy skating without braving the cold.

Neal said CAB has worked with Neon Entertainment before for past events.

“We have a good rapport with them,” he said.

Admission is free and students can enjoy music while skating, Strong said.

Strong said that 125 pairs of ice skates would be available, and that students who wish to bring their own skates are allowed to.

According to Neon Entertainment’s website, only 25 skaters can fit on the rink at one time.

Skates are provided for students, and all students must sign a liability waiver before getting in the rink.

Strong said only students will be admitted.

“We’re looking for students who like to ice skate to come enjoy themselves,” Strong said.