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Summer on the Waterfront returns: Delaware River Waterfront Corporation announces 2025 lineup with roller skating, wellness, food, treasure hunts & more

By May 23, 2025May 27th, 2025Community Featured Press Releases

The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC) invites visitors to ‘Make Summer Yours‘ as it announces its Summer 2025 calendar with the return of wellness programs—including roller skating and fitness classes—made possible by Independence Blue Cross, the region’s leading health care provider. Packed with memory-making moments and events including a Treasure Hunt, the Waterfront’s parks will also welcome new and returning food and beverage partners at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, Spruce Street Harbor Park, and Cherry Street Pier.

“Summer 2025 begins at the Delaware River Waterfront,” said Joseph A. Forkin, President & CEO of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. “As our official season kicks-off on May 23, visitors can make new memories along our lively boardwalk at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, unwind in the vibrant urban oasis of Spruce Street Harbor Park, enjoy wellness experiences at Race Street Pier, and grab a bite to eat while exploring local art at Cherry Street Pier. We are especially grateful to our partners, including Independence Blue Cross, for helping us expand access to the Waterfront—particularly through enhanced fitness offerings at Race Street Pier and the exciting return of roller skating at Summerfest.”

“We’re thrilled to help our friends at DRWC welcome residents and visitors back to roller skating on the Philadelphia waterfront this summer. “Whether it’s the Independence Blue Cross RiverRink, mini-golf, the amusements, or any of the carnival games and treats, Summerfest brings people together in the spirit of fun, and all of us at IBX are proud to be part of the 2025 season,” said Steve Fera, executive vice president of Public Affairs and president of Government Markets at Independence Blue Cross.

Alongside roller skating and fitness events presented by Independence Blue Cross, the “Make Summer Yours” theme will come to life Summer 2025 at the Delaware River Waterfront, transforming the space into a vibrant hub of local music, dancing, new seasonal traditions, and Philly-flavors with a mix of food and beverage partners. In addition, the second annual Philly Treasure Hunt, curated by Eric the Puzzler, launches this June. This free, city-wide adventure invites teams to crack clues hidden in public spaces in Philly—complete checkpoints, win prizes, and earn access to a secret end-of-summer puzzle party.

DRWC curates a seasonal menu of food and beverage partners, showcasing a rotating selection of small businesses and up-and-coming chefs. From classic boardwalk bites to local culinary favorites, the Waterfront will once again offer something delicious for everyone to enjoy all summer long.

  • Cherry Street Pier
    Reflecting the Pier’s commitment to showcasing local food entrepreneurs and providing accessible, high-quality options for visitors, returning food and drink partners for 2025 include:

    • Irv’s Ice Cream
    • Philly Tacos
  • Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest
    Visitors can pay-as-they-go uncovering carnival style fare and including Philadelphia- favorites to help each visitor create their own adventure along the Delaware River Waterfront. 2025 vendors include:

    • Skelly’s Amusements
    • Chickie’s & Pete’s
    • Philly Tacos
    • The Lodge Bar
  • Spruce Street Harbor Park
    More than just a park, Spruce Street Harbor Park has become a launching pad for Philly’s culinary creativity and a hub for local fare, with pay-as-you-go food and drink options. 2025 vendors include:

    • Chickie’s & Pete’s
    • Ay Burrito! by Philly Taco
    • Philly Tacos
    • Frozen Delights

 

Media contact:
Kathleen Conlon
267-918-8057 (cell)
Kathleen.Conlon@ibx.com