Celebrating Joy: Three (3) Perfect Ways to have the Best Holiday Week on the Delaware River Waterfront in Philadelphia

Published on December 20 2023

Enjoy non-stop fun on the Delaware River Waterfront this Holiday Week

By Jarreau Freeman

Holiday Week on the Delaware River Waterfront is here. Celebrate the magic of the season in Philadelphia - December 22 through January 1 - with a host of activities, and events (including the best New Year’s Eve Parties in Philadelphia), along with amazing eats and spirits, ice skating, and more at Cherry Street Pier and Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest (open 7-days-a-week including holidays with extended hours during Holiday Week).

Savor time off with family and friends and rekindle your favorite Philadelphia traditions with these top three (3) super festive holiday happenings on the Philadelphia Waterfront.

#1: (Last Minute) Holiday Week Shopping at Cherry Street Pier, Anyone?

Hightail it down to Cherry Street Pier to purchase last-minute gifts. If you’re looking for handcrafted items, art, or one-of-a-kind finds, then the Artist and Artisans Holiday Market on December 23, is the perfect place to do just that. Shop from noon to 5 pm, and then stroll along the Delaware River Trail to Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest (celebrating 30 seasons of winter fun) to toast to a job well done with a signature cocktail from the Lodge bar - we recommend the Berry and Bright featuring Sipsmith Strawberry Smash Gin, ginger ale, strawberry, cranberry, and rosemary. During your shopping spree at Cherry Street Pier check out the Under $100 Art Show Presented by Walls for Justice, as well as shop the artists' studios using our handy Holiday Gift Guide.

#2: Enjoy extra cheer with extended hours at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest during Holiday Week

Winterfest will be open from 11 am to 1 am from December 26 through December 30, which gives you extra time to enjoy your favorite winter festivities in Philadelphia.

Cozy up in the Lodge sipping cider and eating Crabfries from Chickie’s & Pete’s or boneless spare ribs from Black Iron BBQ, playing boardwalk games and rides at Skelly’s Amusements, or spending more time creating memories by the holiday tree for TikTok or the Gram (don’t forget to tag Winterfest on social media at @ibxriverrink).

Plus, cabins, firepits, and the Rinkside Lounge are available to reserve, too. So book now, because time slots are going fast.

#3: Ring in 2024 during Holiday Week at three epic New Year’s Eve Parties on the Delaware River Waterfront

Hurry and secure your New Year’s Eve plans by reserving your tickets for not one, but three, New Year’s Eve bashes on the Delaware River Waterfront before they sell out.

At Parties On Ice at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, enjoy skating, entertainment, light bites, sips, and so much more. There are two party times - 5 pm-8 pm and 10 pm - 1 am - which provides amazing flexibility so you can make the most of your celebrations. This party is great for families or large groups of friends, too.

Another great party for families is the New Year’s Eve Kids Countdown at 5 pm at Cherry Street Pier. This is the quintessential soiree for family-friendly holiday fun. Enjoy crafts and activities with PopUpPlay, a black light room, as well as live music and a splendid balloon drop. Tickets include a complimentary cup of hot cocoa.

If you’re looking for a late-night partay, New Year on the Pier (21+), is calling your name. Drop the kiddos at the sitters or gather your pals, for an evening of DJs, dancing, and more. Each ticket comes with a complimentary drink to toast the New Year.

All parties include spectacular views of the New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront celebrating 30 seasons of Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest at 6 pm and midnight.

BONUS: If you're looking for other festive New Year's Eve activities ring in 2024 on the water during the NYE Cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia! Embark on a one-of-a-kind celebration. Whether you choose to kick off the day with brunch, the early dinner seating with the kids, or the open bar and champagne toast dinner, count down to the New Year with dining, dancing, fantastic views of the NYE fireworks, and unparalleled views on the Delaware River.

The festivities along the Waterfront will be a great kickoff, or capstone, to what is sure to be a magnificent weekend of holiday splendor across Philadelphia. Use VisitPhilly.com/NewYearsEveInPhiladelphia to make your New Year’s plans today.

Holiday Week on the Delaware River Waterfront is sure to be epic. Don’t forget to share all those magical moments with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or using the hashtag #MyPhillyWaterfront.

Last Updated on December 29, 2023.

Delaware River WATERFRONT

Enjoy non-stop fun on the Delaware River Waterfront this Holiday Week

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Delaware River WATERFRONT