PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) – Icy temperatures mirrored the rink itself at Penn’s Landing on the final day of January, but that did not keep families away from a free ice skating event honoring America’s 250th birthday.
The event, dubbed Philly Skates Free at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink, brought families to the Delaware River waterfront for a day of skating, music and winter activities.
“It’s a win-win situation for us,” said Amanda Leibouvitz of South Philadelphia, who bundled up with her children to brave the cold.
Leibouvitz said preparation was key for spending hours outdoors. “Two layers of everything. Two socks, two pair of pants, two scarves, a hat, and two pairs of gloves,” she said.
Organizers said the conditions were ideal for skating, even if the cold kept visitors bundled. “It’s definitely a little chilly, but it’s the perfect weather for ice skating conditions,” said Erika Joy Erb of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation.
The frozen rink, surrounded by shoveled snow and backing up to an icy Delaware River, created a wintery scene for the approximately 3,500 people who signed up for the free day of skating during Winterfest.
“We have live music, a heated lounge area, we have half off happy hour in the evening, so it’s a great time even if it is cold to come out and have some fun,” Erb said.
Inside, families took a break from the cold with face painting and other winter-themed activities.
Scott Lokke, general manager of Rivers Casino, said the event aligned with the waterfront corporation’s broader mission. “The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation, it’s their mission to connect people to the river front and what a great way to do it and really kick off such a big year in Philadelphia, 2026, we’re really excited about it,” Lokke said.
As children waited for a birthday cake to be cut, Markeith Patterson of Norristown said the cold did little to dampen the mood. “We’re having fun ice skating. It’s a cold day but we layered up and we’re having fun,” he said.
Patterson added that the timing of the free event was especially meaningful for families. “After having Christmas and spending all that money on Christmas, this is a wonderful thing,” he said.
Some children even embraced the winter weather. “Watch out for the snow, it might snow again,” said MJ.
While this was the only free skate day planned, organizers said Winterfest continues through March at Penn’s Landing.
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