SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Saturday was World Ice Skating Day and people celebrated the sport internationally. Over at the ice rink at MGM Springfield, dozens came out to skate and enjoy a night under the lights. Busy weekend wraps up for Bright Nights at Forest Park The 3rd annual World Ice Skating Day was put on by the International Skating Union. However, the day has ties to western Massachusetts. Everettt Hosmer Barney who moved to Springfield during the Civil War dedicated his time to the development and manufacturing of ice skates in the 1860s. He secured his first patent for developing the metal clamp-on skates. This changed the sport and he soon became known as "The Man Who Put America on Skates." He was often seen by his home in Forest Park skating on the Connecticut River. Now many emphasize how the annual day brings them joy. The day is about making ice skating accessible to everyone and encouraging first-timers to experience joy and excitement on the ice. Local News Headlines What are the chances of a white Christmas in western Mass? Plainville man dead following house fire Woman hit by vehicle on Page Blvd. in Springfield People celebrate World Ice Skating Day at MGM Springfield ice rink WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.