Dilworth Park Prepares For Winter Fun

Out with the old, in with the cold! Dilworth Park is ready to begin its annual wintertime transformation. The fountain will be turned off for the season on Thursday, October 10 at 10 p.m., with Pulse remaining in operation through October 20. Installation of the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink, Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin and Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn presented by TD Bank will start the weekend of October 18.
Parkgoers will be able to stop by for a snack at the Air Grille through October 13, as it will close down for the fall season immediately following Octoberfest. The Dilworth Park Café and Starbucks Coffee kiosk will remain open for the convenience of all park visitors.

The official start of Dilworth Park’s winter season is set for November 8 with a fire-and-ice themed opening of the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin, along with the 2019 debut of the Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn presented by TD Bank. The Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market will return on November 23 with dozens of local artisans showcasing homemade gifts, trinkets and crafts galore. Then on November 25, 6abc and the Center City District will once again introduce the Deck the Hall Light Show presented by Independence Blue Cross.
The Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink will be open daily through February 23, 2020. Admission is $3 for children 10 and younger, and $5 for adults; skate rental is $10 per person and discounts available for groups of 10 or more. Temple University staff and students receive $1 off admission with presentation of their Temple University ID. SEPTA Pass or SEPTA Key holders will also receive $1 off ice-skating admission as part of SEPTA pass perks program, (some restrictions apply). Starting in January, complimentary admission passes will be distributed from the Capital One Café for Free in February. Visit DilworthPark.org for rink hours and more information.

The Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin, sponsored by Shipley Energy and the Met Philadelphia, is Center City’s premier destination for sipping, eating and relaxing this winter. Toasty firepits decorate the outdoor terrace, which allows guests to take in the sights and sounds of downtown. The heated indoor space offers a full bar featuring cocktails crafted with Maker’s Mark bourbon and Jim Beam Apple, along with iced-cold Victory Brewing Company’s Winter Cheer and Stella Artois. Brûlée Catering has also prepared a full menu of seasonally-inspired dishes and treats.
Programs at the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink and Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin are presented by Rothman Orthopaedics Institute, Independence Blue Cross, Capital One, Temple University, Live Nation and 6abc. This season’s event highlights include:

• Fire & Ice Opening Festival

November 8, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

November 9, noon-2 p.m.

Ice sculptures, fire and ice performers and more will help celebrate the season opening of the rink. B101.1 will be on-site on Saturday, November 9.

• Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn presented by TD Bank

November 8-February 23, 2020

Picturesque plantings create a wonderland of lights, laughter and unforgettable memories. New this year, a Chaddsford Winery station will offer warm mulled wine for purchase to guests 21 and older, complete with a souvenir mug. The Albert M. Greenfield Foundation and the Burpee Foundation have provided additional support for this season’s Wintergarden.

• Cocktails & Cold Ones presented by Shipley Energy

Wednesdays, 5 p.m.-7 p.m.

November 13-February 19, 2020

Featuring $6 EFFEN Vodka cocktails, $5 wine, $4 Bud Lights and discounted bites every Wednesday night at the Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin.

• Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market

November 23-January 1, 2020

Local designers, crafters and artisans bring their talents to Dilworth Park for the winter season with unique gifts, handmade trinkets and delicious treats for holiday shoppers. B101.1 will make an appearance on opening day. Visit DilworthPark.org for hours and a full list of vendors.

• Deck the Hall Light Show presented by Independence Blue Cross

November 25-January 1, 2020

Deck the Hall Light Show presented by Independence Blue Cross dazzles Dilworth Park visitors every winter. This season, in partnership with 6abc, the spectacle returns with nightly show times and a touch of holiday magic. For the most up-to-date schedule and information, visit DilworthPark.org

• Santa Express

November 29, 10:30 a.m.-noon

Festively decorated SEPTA trains are bringing Santa Claus to the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink. After a fun-filled holiday ride featuring live entertainment, Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves will lead a parade, followed by a skating session with Santa himself. B101.1 will join in on the festivities throughout the morning! Visit ISEPTAPHILLY.com for train times and stations.

• Holiday PJ Party

December 8 and 15, 10 a.m. - noon

Guests are encouraged to dress in festive PJs for a fun-filled morning spent with Santa. A la carte breakfast and treats will be offered, along with fun activities like crafts and caroling to keep kids entertained before a special skating session with Santa Claus himself. B101.1 will be in-house to join the party!


The full event schedule for winter 2020 is to be announced. Events are weather permitting and subject to change. Dilworth Park is located at 1 S. 15th St., on the west side of City Hall. For the most up-to-date information, visit: DilworthPark.org.