Winterfest at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Returns With Ice Skating, Boardwalk Games, Cabin Rentals, & More
The Holiday Season is here and that means that Winterfest is back. That’s right, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink’s annual festival is returning and will kick-off the 2024/2025 season on November 29th, 2024 and will run until March 2, 2025.
To make way for the I-95 CAP (learn more about this groundbreaking new project at ParkatPennsLanding.com), visitors will enjoy a familiar Winterfest with a new site layout to ensure all your favorite amenities are back and better than ever. Visitors will still find ice skating on a fresh new NHL-size rink, boardwalk games and attractions, special events, and exciting programming. Ice skating tickets have already gone on sell.
Timed tickets are back, with skating sessions available daily. Skating admission is $5, and skate rental is $12. Skating sessions sell out fast, and tickets can be booked in advance at RiverRink.com.
In addition to booking in advance, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead as they gear up to visit this season. Parking on-site will be limited due to I-95 CAP construction. However, many great ways to access the Waterfront include walking and biking along the Delaware River Trail, rideshare, and public transit. To ensure a seamless visit, guests can visit DRWC’s ‘Know Before You Go’ guide for parking recommendations, directions, FAQs, and more: delawareriverwaterfront.com/what-to-know-before-you-go.
“Winterfest is a special place where memories are made for Philadelphians and visitors from around the region and world,” said Stephen P. Fera, executive vice president of Public Affairs and president of Government Markets at Independence Blue Cross. “Independence Blue Cross is proud to support this magical destination that encourages people of all ages to come together, have fun, and stay active.”
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest will feature more weekly programming, such as Holiday Markets, Bingo Nights, “Skate with Characters,” and Theme Skate Nights, which will kick-off on December 13 with a Merry Swiftmas: A Celebration of the Ultimate Cat Lady. Special events highlight the season of traditions, including the Holiday Tree Lighting powered by PECO on December 6 and New Year’s Eve Parties on Ice, capped off with fireworks and Sweetheart Skates sponsored by Bailey’s on Valentine’s Day.
For those looking for a personalized experience, wether it be an intimate outing or a night out with friends and family, the popular cabins are back. Cabin rentals run $78 – $125, while firepits are $30, and Rinkside Lounge will run $300 – $350. These options are great for every occasion from bachelor and bachelorette parties, to birthdays, as well as corporate events. Filled with festive decor and comfortable seating, it’s ideal for celebrating the season. Food and beverage packages are also available to amplify the experience. Rentals are now on sale and can be booked in advance at RiverRink.com.
Food lovers can look forward to a selection of delicious offerings from various vendors, including boardwalk food with a winter twist from Skelly’s Amusements, comforting Philly classics from Chickie’s & Pete’s such as Crabfries and cheesesteaks, and delicious Mexican street food from the James Beard nominated team behind Cantina La Martina, along with skelly’s Pizza Port will be added, where you can enjoy slices and whole pies for the entire family to share. Hand-scooped ice cream sundaes from Irv’s Ice Cream will be added this year. The complete list of vendor menus will be available closer to opening day.
“After a brief summer break, we’re excited to welcome skating back for what’s sure to be an action-packed winter season.” said DRWC President Joe Forkin. “A huge thank you to our wonderful partners at Independence Blue Cross and PECO for spreading the holiday cheer as we celebrate our 31st winter season. Stay tuned for thrilling announcements about this year’s headliners for our annual Tree Lighting and much more!”
Park Hours of Operation:
Monday – Thursday: 1 pm – 9:30 pm
Friday: 1 pm – 12:30 am
Saturday: 11 am – 12:30 am
Sunday: 11 am – 9:30 pm
Holiday Hours:
November 28 (Thanksgiving Day): Closed
December 24 (Christmas Eve): 1 pm – 8:30 pm
December 25 (Christmas Day): 1 pm – 8:30 pm
December 31 (New Year’s Eve Day): 10 am – 2 pm
January 1 (New Year’s Day): 11 am – 12:30 am
January 20 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day): 11 am – 9:30 pm
February 14 (Valentine’s Day): 11 am – 9:30 pm with a Sweetheart Skate event
February 17 (Presidents’ Day): 11 am – 9:30 pm
Pricing:
Ice Skating: Admission is $5, with skate rentals at $12.
Seasonal Discounts: Free skating admission is available for IBX members with a card, students with valid IDs, and military personnel with valid IDs. Skate rental is not included.
Cabins, fire pits, and larger group rentals are available for private events. Pricing includes:
Single cabin: $78 for 90 minutes (up to 10 guests)
Double cabin: $125 for 90 minutes (up to 18 guests)
Firepits: $30 for 90 minutes (up to 4 guests)
Rinkside Lounge: $300 for 2.5 hours (Monday – Thursday) and $350 for 2.5 hours (Friday – Sunday) (up to 40 guests)
Full-site rentals are available starting at $12,500
Winter Programming:
Subject to changes. Visit RiverRink.com for updates.
Opening Weekend, November 29 – December 1
Holiday Tree Lighting Powered by PECO, Friday, December 6, 6-9 pm
New Year’s Eve Parties on Ice with fireworks, December 31
Sweetheart Skate sponsored by Bailey’s, February 14, 7-11 pm
Merry Swiftmas: A Celebration of the Ultimate Cat Lady, December 13
Holiday Markets, Sundays, November 26 – December 17, 2-6 pm
Workshop Wednesdays, Wednesdays, January-March, pay-as-you-go workshops with Cherry Street Pier Artists.
Bingo Night at the Lodge, Thursdays, January-March, free bingo hosted by Cherry Street Pier Artist Amy Kelly with prizes (while supplies last)
Theme Skate nights, Fridays, January-March, 7-10 pm
Arctic Beats (DJ Nights), Saturdays, January-March, 7-10 pm
Storytime at the Lodge, Sundays, January-March
Skate with Characters, Sundays, January-March
