Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest is excited to announce its 2024/2025 season, bringing joy and festive holiday fun to Philadelphia from November 29, 2024, to 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, fantastic food and drink, and exciting programming.
Ice skating tickets will go on sale on Monday, October 28, 2024. 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 check out DRWC’s ‘Know Before You Go’ guide for parking recommendations, directions, FAQs, and more at DelawareRiverWaterfront.com.
“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. 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.
Plus, guests will be able to enjoy the return of cabins ($78 – $125), firepits ($30), and the Rinkside Lounge ($300 – $350), perfect for every occasion—celebrations, bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays, and 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 will also be on sale to the public on Monday, October 28, 2024.
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. Skelly’s Pizza Port will serve slices and whole pies for the entire family to share. 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 will provide the perfect pre-skate or post-skate meal. 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!”
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
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, firepits, 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 Skate Night, December 13
- Holiday Markets, select Sundays in December, 2-6 pm
- Workshop Wednesdays, Wednesdays, January-March, pay-as-you-go workshops with Cherry Street Pier Artists.
- Free Bingo Thursdays in 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
Media Contact:
Kathleen Conlon
215-241-4576
Kathleen.Conlon@ibx.com
