If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly holiday activity, head down to Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest on the Delaware River Waterfront for ice skating and festive seasonal activities. But before you lace up your skates and hit the NHL-sized ice rink, stop by the Lodge to help area residents facing hunger by participating in a food drive hosted by Independence Blue Cross (IBX) through Sunday, December 31. Everyone who drops off a food item can enter into a raffle for a chance to win Philadelphia Flyers tickets or signed Philadelphia Eagles memorabilia.
The food drive benefits Philabundance, a local nonprofit that works with more than 350 community organizations to distribute food to nearly 500,000 people facing food insecurity in nine southeastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey counties.
The items needed most include:
• Peanut butter and jelly
• Cooking oil
• Canned goods, such as tuna, meat, fruits, vegetables, and soup
• Oatmeal and breakfast cereal
• Whole grain pasta
• Boxed, non-refrigerated milk
One in seven adults and more than one in four children in the area served by Philabundance live in households that are unable to afford an adequate supply of food. Having your entire family participate in the food drive is a great way to show your kids the importance of helping others.
IBX is also hosting IBX Days at Winterfest on Saturday, Jan. 13, and Saturday, Feb. 10. These special days feature activities and giveaways, and IBX members who show their member ID card can get a complimentary hot chocolate or coffee in the Lodge. IBX Days run from 12–4 p.m. Rain dates for both are the immediately following Sundays.
This is the 30th anniversary season for Winterfest, which runs through the end of February. In addition to the ice-skating rink, Winterfest amenities include warming cabins, fire pit stations, boardwalk rides and games, and a variety of concessionaires serving food, drinks, and seasonal treats.
The site is open to the public and admission is free. Skating admission tickets are $5. Skate rental is $12. IBX members receive up to four skating admission tickets with their member ID card and photo identification.
The quantity of ice-skating tickets is limited, so reserving them in advance is recommended.