Illustration of skaters on a frozen woodland pond with a bonfire on the bank and lanterns in the trees (Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest)
Other Christmas Activities

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.

Nov 27, 2026 – Feb 28, 2027 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

General site entry is free. Skating admission is $5 and skate rental is $12.

Neighborhood

Penn's Landing

Food & Drink

Outdoor concessionaires serve boardwalk food, pizza, Crabfries, cheesesteaks, Mexican street food, local brews, and festive cocktails and mocktails.

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.

Location

Delaware River Waterfront · 101 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19106 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and groups seeking outdoor winter fun

Vibe

Festive and cozy

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

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.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

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.

Browse Christmas in 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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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