Free ice skating attracts households to Penn’s Landing regardless of frigid temperatures

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) – Icy temperatures mirrored the rink itself at Penn’s Landing on the ultimate day of January, however that didn’t preserve households away from a free ice skating occasion honoring America’s 250th birthday.

The occasion, dubbed Philly Skates Free at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink, introduced households to the Delaware River waterfront for a day of skating, music and winter actions.

“It’s a win-win situation for us,” mentioned Amanda Leibouvitz of South Philadelphia, who bundled up together with her youngsters to courageous the chilly.

Leibouvitz mentioned preparation was key for spending hours open air. “Two layers of everything. Two socks, two pair of pants, two scarves, a hat, and two pairs of gloves,” she mentioned.

Organizers mentioned the situations had been excellent for skating, even when the chilly saved guests bundled. “It’s definitely a little chilly, but it’s the perfect weather for ice skating conditions,” mentioned Erika Joy Erb of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation.

The frozen rink, surrounded by shoveled snow and backing as much as an icy Delaware River, created a wintery scene for the roughly 3,500 individuals who signed up for the free day of skating throughout 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 mentioned.

Inside, households took a break from the chilly with face portray and different winter-themed actions.

Scott Lokke, basic supervisor of Rivers Casino, mentioned the occasion aligned with the waterfront company’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 mentioned.

As youngsters waited for a birthday cake to be minimize, Markeith Patterson of Norristown mentioned the chilly did little to dampen the temper. “We’re having fun ice skating. It’s a cold day but we layered up and we’re having fun,” he mentioned.

Patterson added that the timing of the free occasion was particularly significant for households. “After having Christmas and spending all that money on Christmas, this is a wonderful thing,” he mentioned.

Some youngsters even embraced the winter climate. “Watch out for the snow, it might snow again,” mentioned MJ.

While this was the one free skate day deliberate, organizers mentioned Winterfest continues by means of March at Penn’s Landing.