Fan Fest offers the public a chance to 'get involved'

Even if you don't have a ticket, you can still be a part of Skate America 2008.

Fan Fest, which opens Thursday and runs through Sunday in the Edward D. Hansen Conference Center adjacent to Comcast Arena at the Everett Events Center, is designed to give fans a chance to experience the atmosphere of a major international skating competition.

"It's a place where people can come and mingle with the figure-skating crowd," said Steve Baker, one of the promoters of the event.

Admission is free.

Among the activities planned are musical performances, photo opportunities atop a Zamboni and autograph sessions with the athletes.

There also will be a play area for kids where they can construct an igloo out of foam blocks.

"It's a chance for the public, whether they have a ticket or not, to get involved in the event," Baker said.

Here are the times and the schedule of events:

Thursday, Oct 23

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

n Music: David Lee Howard (acoustic guitar), noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

n Free admission to the Ladies practice session from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct.24

8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

n Music: Lunch-time concert with David Lee Howard, noon

n Athlete autograph sessions at 6 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 25

8 a.m.-9 p.m.

n Athlete autograph sessions at 6 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 26 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

n Athlete autograph sessions at 3:30 p.m.

n Music: Keith Levoy (folk rock), 3:30 p.m.; The Hayburners (folk-americana duo), 4 p.m.