Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest Returns With Ice Skating, Fireside Cabins, The Lodge, Events, and More

The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC) has announced the return of the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, opening Friday, November 28, 2025, and running through March 2026. For over three decades, the event has been a hallmark of the city’s cold-weather season — blending festive cheer, waterfront views, and classic Philadelphia fun.

Alongside the skating festivities, DRWC will also launch new holiday programming at Cherry Street Pier, including a Holiday Art Show (opening December 5, 2025) and a Holiday Gift Guide highlighting creations from the Pier’s resident artists, debuting on Small Business Saturday, November 29, 2025.

The Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest transforms Penn’s Landing into a cozy winter village complete with an NHL-sized ice rink, outdoor firepits, heated cabins, and festive décor set against the dramatic backdrop of the Ben Franklin Bridge.

“For more than 30 years, the RiverRink has been Philadelphia’s premier destination for skating, memories, and winter fun,” said Joseph A. Forkin, president and CEO of DRWC. “This year, we’re thrilled to extend that magic to Cherry Street Pier with new art installations and holiday shopping, giving Philadelphians even more ways to celebrate the season along the Waterfront.”

Open seven days a week, including holidays, Winterfest offers free admission with pay-as-you-go amenities. Skating admission is $5, and skate rentals are $12, with special discounts for Independence Blue Cross members, military personnel, and first responders, who can skate for free (rental not included).

Guests can expect the return of classic amusements and festive food experiences, all set within a twinkling winter wonderland.

Highlights include:

• The Ice Rink: A world-class skating experience overlooking the Delaware River.

• The Lodge: Warm up with hot chocolate, festive cocktails, and cozy comfort food.

• Jacquin’s Porch Bar (New for 2025): A winter-themed cocktail bar featuring seasonal drinks made with local spirits like Pennsylvania Dutch and Union Forge Vodka.

• Fireside Cabins and Rinkside Lounges: Private spaces to gather, relax, and take in the view.

• Family-Friendly Fun: Enjoy the Ferris wheel, indoor arcade, and towering holiday tree decked out in lights.

On-site vendors include Chickie’s & Pete’s, Philly Taco, Skelly’s Pizza Port, Skelly’s Amusements, and more.

Winterfest’s calendar is filled with holiday celebrations and community gatherings, including:

• Opening Weekend Celebration | November 28–30, 2025
  Kick off the season with a full weekend of live entertainment and winter fun.

• Holiday Tree Lighting powered by PECO | Friday, December 5, 6 p.m.
  The waterfront’s most magical night returns with live music, performances, and the official lighting of the holiday tree.

• New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront | Wednesday, December 31
  Ring in 2026 with spectacular fireworks over the river — one of Philly’s most iconic celebrations.

Just steps from the rink, Cherry Street Pier will be filled with art, shopping, and festive spirit.

Small Business Saturday & Artist Gift Guide Launch

• Saturday, November 29, 2025
  Support local makers with a curated holiday shopping experience featuring the 2025 Cherry Street Pier Artist Gift Guide, showcasing handmade gifts, jewelry, textiles, art prints, and more.

Holiday Art Show

• Friday, December 5 – Sunday, December 21, 2025
  Discover unique works from Cherry Street Pier’s Artists in Residence.
  Opening Night: Friday, December 5, 5–7 p.m., part of the First Friday Series presented by Fulton Bank, held just before the RiverRink’s Tree Lighting Ceremony.