Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
Visitors can ice skate on an NHL-sized rink under thousands of sparkling lights with sweeping views of the Delaware River. The site features a signature holiday tree, boardwalk rides and games, and private heated cabins and fire pits. Outdoor concessionaires serve boardwalk treats, pizza, cheesesteaks, tacos, local brews, and festive cocktails.
What to Expect
Waterfront ice skating, cozy heated cabins, and private fire pits.
Event Details
Duration
Cabin and fire pit rentals are available in 90-minute slots.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Penn's Landing
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Delaware River Waterfront Corporation
Food & Drink
Outdoor concessionaires serve boardwalk food, pizza, Crabfries, cheesesteaks, Mexican street food, local brews, and festive cocktails and mocktails.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and groups seeking outdoor winter fun
Vibe
Festive and cozy
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: General site entry is free. Skating admission is $5 and skate rental is $12. – Get tickets
- Parking: On-site parking is limited. The page suggests accessing the Waterfront by walking or biking along the Delaware River Trail, rideshare, or public transit, and links to a guide for parking recommendations and directions.
Tips & Advice
- Reserve your skating session ahead of time, since the number of skating tickets is limited and reservations are highly recommended.
- IBX members should bring their membership card and a photo ID, because staff may ask for ID that matches the cardholder's name.
- Book a cabin or fire pit for groups, and remember that they come in 90-minute slots and can include food and drink packages.
- Skip the car if you can, because on-site parking is limited and the Delaware River Trail, rideshare and transit all reach the rink.
- If you need to change your plans, exchange your skating ticket yourself through your Showclix account for another date of equal value.
Special Events & Promotions
- Opening Weekend November 27–29, with the Holiday Tree Lighting on November 29.
- America's 250th birthday skate on January 31: free skating and rentals, birthday cake, face painting, giveaways, a live DJ and half-off happy hour (booking required).
- Valentine's Day Fire & Ice Party on February 13, a separately ticketed event.
- IBX cardholders and employees get up to four skating admission tickets with their card; skate rental is extra.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I reserve skating ahead of time?
Yes. Skating tickets are limited, and reservations are highly recommended.
What can I rent?
You can rent a private fire pit for 2–6 guests, a heated cabin for up to 18, or the Rinkside Lounge for up to 40, which has its own rink access. Cabins and fire pits are booked in 90-minute slots, and food and drink packages are available.
What food and drink is there?
Skelly's serves boardwalk food and pizza, Chickie's & Pete's has Crabfries and cheesesteaks, and Philly Tacos serves Mexican street food. There are also local brews, festive cocktails and mocktails.
How does the IBX discount work?
IBX cardholders and employees can get up to four skating admission tickets. Show your IBX membership card on-site and bring photo ID in case it's requested. Skate rental isn't included, but you can buy it at the box office.
Where should I park?
On-site parking is limited. Walking or biking the Delaware River Trail, rideshare and public transit are the easiest ways in.
More Christmas Events Near Philadelphia
More Christmas Events near Philadelphia
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.