The Independence Blue Cross RiverRink is Hosting a Christmas in July Santa Skate With Themed Cocktails
The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (“DRWC”) officially announces the return of Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest for the 2025 – 2026 season, bringing back Philadelphia’s favorite cold-weather tradition beginning Friday, November 29, 2025. To offer visitors an early taste of holiday magic, DRWC will host a special Santa Skate on Friday, July 25 from 5 pm to 7 pm just in time for Christmas in July. A rain date is scheduled for Saturday, July 26 from 2 to 4 pm in the event of inclement weather.
At DRWC’s Santa Skate at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, visitors will meet, greet, and skate with a summertime Santa while enjoying a preview of Winterfest fun, complete with holiday movie classics playing in The Lodge, festive music, and drink specials including Holly Jolly Red Slushies, Frozen “Hot Chocolate,” and Cozy Coquito (while supplies last). Visitors are encouraged to dress festively and take photos with the Zamboni. The first 100 roller skating purchasers will receive a complimentary ice-skating ticket for each roller-skating ticket purchased for the upcoming season. This skating offer is only valid on-site.
“For more than 30 years, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest has been a beloved destination where families and visitors can create seasonal traditions along the Waterfront,” said Joseph A. Forkin, President & CEO of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. “Thanks to our longtime partner, Independence Blue Cross, we’re proud to continue making this space accessible, festive, and welcoming all year long. We hope everyone enjoys a taste of winter during our Santa Skate celebration.”
Presented by DRWC, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink located at 101 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, is Philadelphia’s urban waterfront destination for skating, tradition, and memories. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Delaware River and the Ben Franklin Bridge, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink transforms with the seasons, currently hosting Summerfest through September 1, offering a lively boardwalk experience with roller skating.
Opening on “Black Friday” November 29, 2025, Winterfest will welcome visitors to a winter wonderland equipped with an NHL-sized outdoor ice-skating rink and rustic décor. Outdoor fire pits and warming cabins offer a cozy winter escape and a place to gather and spend quality time with family and friends. New to Winterfest this 2025 – 2026 season is the edition of igloos! These outdoor, heated igloos will offer an additional place to cozy up with loved ones as well as a place to eat and drink from one of the many pay-as-you-go options at The Lodge and Concession Stands surrounding the rink. Food and beverage vendors are expected to be announced this fall.
Amusements including the Ferris wheel and an indoor arcade will offer more fun for all ages. Weekly programming, events, and entertainment will be offered on-site with dates announced for beloved traditions including:
December 5, 2025 – Holiday Tree Lighting powered by PECO
December 31, 2025 – New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Advance tickets sales for skating will go on sale in October 2025.
The Santa Skate at the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest (101 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19106) will be held on Friday, July 25 from 5 –7 pm. In the event of inclement weather, a rain date is scheduled for Saturday, July 26 from 2 – 4 pm (and will be shared on social media and the DRWC website). Skating admission ($5) and skate rental ($12) tickets are available for purchase onsite or purchased in advance online at RiverRink.com. In addition to holiday fun, mini golf, games, and ride tickets are pay-as-you go with purchase on-site. In addition to skating, visitors can enjoy bites from concession stands and a full-service bar with local beers, wine, and cocktails, and dive into boardwalk fun, including mini golf, Ferris wheel, carousel, Gravity Storm Moon Bounce, carnival games, and pay-as-you-go arcade play.
By showing your IBX card online or in-person, Independence Blue Cross members receive free skate admission for themselves and up to three guests (skate rental not included). Military and first responders receive free skate admission for themselves and up to three guests with valid ID (in person only; skate rental not included). Visitors can check the DRWC website for up-to-date programming, daily hours, holiday hours, as well as tickets and events.
