Learn to curl, play a game like a true Scotland athlete, and savor a homemade brunch all on one unforgettable date. See why it’s one of our all-time favorites.
The Background
Curling is a sport where players slide granite stones across an ice sheet towards a target called the house to earn points. In 1961, six Canadians founded the Potomac Curling Club. Today, the club’s world-class curing center hosts national level competitions and over 400 members, half of which play in leagues. This close-knit community celebrates the Scottish-invented game and its endearing traditions with pride.
The Standout Features
Here’s why this date is n-ice and chill:
Great Value: For $30, you get a curling lesson, brunch, the chance to play a full game, and a drink. What a steal.
Memorable: Break through the mundane with this date. You’ll never forget throwing your first stone or the sensation of curling ice underneath your feet, and neither will your date.
Warm Welcome: When you’re there, you’re part of the curling family. The exceptionally kind teachers, supportive players, and strong comradery make this a magical place. The goodwill is contagious, creating a perfect environment for a wonderful day.
Team Spirit: The opportunity to support your partner during the game and have them cheer you on in return builds trust and a stronger bond. Learning new skills together brings you closer.
The Experience
Date Lead Up - Hitting the Ice
At 7:20 am, we park in the expansive lot, see a Gardens Ice House sign, and walk left to find the unmissable curling center entrance. Now, you can arrive at 7:45am, but we wanted our complimentary drinks. First, we pass into the warm room covered in quirky curling trophies. While I’m admiring the awards, a man at the check-in table calls us over.
“Hello! Welcome to curling. We’re glad you’re here. Mind signing this waiver?” He exudes a Minnesota-like kindness, and talks as if we’re old friends. Right away, I’m at home. “Ok, same or different teams for the game? Sometimes couples want to compete, but whatever works best!”
We’ll play together. “Okie dokie,” he says, bursting with cheer. “Now, grab two grippers from that bucket and help yourself to drinks.” We snag rubber shoe covers to walk on the ice and two hot teas.
Date Main Event - The Big Game
Close to 7:45 am, our host runs through ground rules and puts us into groups. I’m thrilled to start the lesson with our beginner class of four. The arena has four lanes of ice called sheets. When I step onto sheet D’s ice, I’m surprised by its bubble-filled texture until I realize it creates needed friction for curling.
Next, our coach shows us the proper method to launch from the hacks, like the starting blocks that runners push off of during a race. When it’s my turn, I hold the curling stone in my right hand and a balancing aid in my left. Then, my right foot rests on the hack while the other sits on a thin sliding pad. As I push off and glide across the ice, I fall in love with curling. During his first try, my date is a natural.
After a few more attempts, we learn to curl the stone. If you push the stone straight, the ice will move it in another direction. Instead, you spin or “curl” the stone upon releasing it to get more control. Before long, we’re ready to sweep. Think of sweeping your floor, but on ice. We use brooms to warm up the ice in front of a moving stone. The reduction in friction makes the rock move faster and straighter, allowing us to position the stone for the most points.
Once we have the basics, the brunch bell rings. Sausage, eggs, scrapple, hash browns, and more fill my plate alongside a cup of coffee. The company is as warm as the food. Soon, we’re discussing rules and tips with long-time curlers to prepare for the upcoming game.
When it’s time, my date and I join two experienced curlers to face another team. It’s fun to watch our new skills come together. The veterans guide and encourage us so the match is stress free. In particular, the strategy involved in curling is fascinating. The sport is chess on ice. At the end of round 6, we solidify our win and high-five the other players.
Date Wrap Up - Broomsticking with Your Mates
After the competition, the host offers us a free drink from the bar. Then, we sit at a table to “broomstick” with our team and competitors. In Scotland, outdoor curling players used to stack their brooms after a game to clean them, warm up over a hot beverage, and socialize. In the same way, we interact with our fellow participants. I laugh when a player extends optional whiskey shots to warm us up. It’s tradition, after all!
Listening to stories around the table, I’m grateful for this nice day and amazing group. I’ve never been so welcomed. Upon departure, we bid farewell to our newfound acquaintances. The curling club hosts birthday parties, I remind my date. As we exit into the sunny parking lot, we plan for the future.
The Planning
No need to figure out all the logistics. We did it for you.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best for... | ✔ A few dates in ✔ Steady couple |
| Seasons | Runs end of September to early April. |
| Typical Hours | Saturdays from about 7:20 am to 12:30 pm. If you choose not to arrive early for complimentary beverages, you should arrive no later than 7:45am. How much time you spend socializing with your teammates over a drink is up to you, but we highly recommend taking part after the game ends at noon! |
| Duration | 4-4.5 hours total. See the full schedule below. 7:20 am – Doors open. Complimentary coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and juices available. 7:50 am – Instruction begins in the warm room. 8:10 – 9:15 am – On-ice instruction. 9:15 – 9:45 am – Breakfast is served. 9:15 – 9:45 am – Practice ice available. 9:45 – 12 noon – Curling! After the game – Broomstacking (socializing) with your teammates and opponents in the warm room |
| Cost | $30 for the lesson, brunch, a full game, and a post-game drink. |
| Booking | Get tickets here. Registration opens at 8pm on the Wednesday 10 days before the event. Since this event is in high demand, get ready to book right when registration opens. Registration dates are listed at the above booking link. |
| Website | |
| Address | 13810 Old Gunpowder Rd. Laurel, MD 20707 |
| Transportation | Recommend driving. There is plenty of parking on site. |
| Attire | Since it's ~40 degrees Fahrenheit on the ice, bundle up. If you get cold easily, consider bringing gloves and wearing warm socks. Wear clean, flat-soled shoes (no heels or dress shoes). Athletic shoes are ideal for the ice. |
| Contact Info | Phone: (301) 362-1116 Email: Breakfast@CurlDC.org |
| Cancellation Policy | Refunds will be issued for registration cancellations prior to 12 noon the day before the event. To cancel, email Breakfast@CurlDC.org. |
The Pre- and Post-Date Options
Typically, we share additional activities in case you want to extend the date. However, this curling extravaganza already has it all with a full morning schedule. We’re confident you’ll find it to be the full package and not want for more!