PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 4, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Blue Cross RiverRink opened for its Ninth Season with a BANG on November 29, 2002. Over 2,019 skaters crossed the ice during opening weekend, up 78% from last year, and 62% from the previous year. Senior Vice-President of Penn's Landing, Joseph Brooks, attributes the recent growth to "the uniqueness of the facility, the appeal to the entire family, and visiting the Blue Cross RiverRink is the perfect compliment to the Holiday Season."
The month of December is full of special events that appeal to the young and the young at heart. Visitors to the Blue Cross RiverRink will enjoy the ever-popular Skate with Santa and holiday ice sculptures on Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22, 2002. The weekend's activities include Santa's arrival by helicopter, free face painting, and "Santa and Me" caricatures. Kids will also have the opportunity to decorate their own Reindeer Ears and also make their own Rudolph and Santa pins and ornaments. Activities will take place from 12:30-5:30 pm each day and are free to the public, skaters and spectators alike.
The Blue Cross RiverRink at Penn's Landing has joined forces with the Greater Philadelphia Food Bank and local radio station, 96.5 the Point to present the Holiday Canned Film Festival. From December 2 through December 20, visitors to the Blue Cross RiverRink will be invited to donate a canned good to the Greater Philadelphia Food Bank and skate two for the price of one.
Plus, on Friday December 13 from 8 to 10 pm, visitors who bring a canned good will also have a chance to win great prizes from 96.5 the Point and view a family favorite, "The Christmas Story," from the giant video wall inside the Warming Pavilion at the Blue Cross RiverRink. The Holiday Canned Film Festival continues on Friday December 20 from 8 to 10 pm with another Holiday favorite, Jim Carrey, "The Grinch."
In addition, there will be a live DJ every Friday and Saturday night, from 9 pm until 12 midnight for the 8:30 to 10:30 pm sessions and the 11 pm to 1 am sessions, along with FREE face painting every weekend throughout the season.
Independence Blue Cross is the title sponsor of the Blue Cross RiverRink. Other Sponsors include: PNC Bank, and Philadelphia - the place that LOVES YOU BACK.
The Blue Cross RiverRink is located on Festival Pier at Columbus Boulevard and Spring Garden Street. For more information on skating times, lessons, birthday parties or private receptions, please call 215.925.RINK or visit www.riverrink.com.