You are getting some great advice on here Oki for getting started.
I'm glad EZM mentioned the social aspect. It really is. I don't know if it if just me but some grumpy people aside, I usually shake more hands, B.S. and talk to more people ice fishing than open water fishing. And, others seem more open to it too...especially when fishing is slow in an area
That said, I also greatly value the days where I'm watching a huge white circle and circle my hook and there is no one around to even know it. If you like quiet days with less people, you can easily find that as well.
Like open water season, I now look forwards to ice fishing season as much. Always feels like more at the time like now but pretty equal. No more missing fishing for 5 months for me.
I hope you do it and I hope if you get to appreciate it.