Philadelphia, PA, November 29, 2025
The seventh annual Fishtown Freeze promises a delightful winter wonderland experience featuring stunning ice sculptures and local shopping. Scheduled for December 6, visitors can partake in festive activities including Santa photos, holiday trolley rides, live ice carving, and more. This event showcases community spirit and encourages support for local businesses, with independent retailers participating in a simultaneous holiday shopping spree. All activities are free and designed to bring the community together for a joyous celebration.
Fishtown Freeze 2025: A Winter Wonderland for All
Experience Fishtown’s Holiday Spirit with Ice Sculptures and Local Shopping
Philadelphia, PA – The seventh annual Fishtown Freeze is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025, promising to transform this vibrant neighborhood into a festive winter wonderland. This exciting one-day event is made possible by the dedicated efforts of local organizers and businesses, showcasing how civic innovation and a spirit of community involvement can come together to create unforgettable experiences.
As promotional efforts emphasize minimal bureaucracy and encourage participation, visitors can look forward to a variety of engaging activities, from stunning ice sculptures to local shopping sprees. The Fishtown Freeze is a shining example of how individual initiative can enhance community spirit, drawing both residents and visitors to enjoy the season together.
Event Highlights
- Ice Sculptures: Over two dozen custom-designed ice sculptures will be on display, created by Ice Sculpture Philly, with live carving performances at multiple locations including The Battery and Rivers Casino.
- Holiday Trolley: A complimentary trolley will run along Frankford Avenue from noon to 6:30 p.m., making it easier for attendees to explore the festivities.
- Santa Photos: Families will have the opportunity to take free photos with Santa at Frankford Hall from noon to 4 p.m.
- Winter Wonderland at Mural City Cellars: Savory mulled wine and a vendor market, along with a live ice carving, will be featured at this charming location.
- Ginger Jawn Christmas Pop-Up Bar: Evil Genius Beer Company will introduce a festive pop-up bar with holiday-themed decorations and special beer releases. The brewery will also host a charity run to support local families.
- Official Christmas Tree: Mamajuana Cafe Philly will unveil Fishtown’s new 25-foot-tall Christmas tree, dazzling attendees with over 10,000 lights.
- Indoor + Outdoor Holiday Open House at The Battery: This venue will provide tasty snacks and s’mores along with a live ice carving event.
- Holiday Bowling and Ice Art at Brooklyn Bowl: Festive bowling activities and ice art displays will commence at 2 p.m.
- Christmas-Themed Outdoor Patio at Fabrika: Live music will enhance the joy of the season throughout the evening.
Additional Activities
The Fishtown Freeze coincides with the Fishtown Holiday Shopping Spree, taking place on December 6 and 7. Over 25 independent boutiques and retailers will participate, offering discounts, complimentary beverages, and holiday snacks while promoting local businesses and artisans as a cornerstone of community growth.
Weather Considerations
In case of poor weather, outdoor ice activities will be postponed to Sunday, December 7, ensuring safety while maintaining the event’s accessibility and community focus. Both the Freeze and the Holiday Shopping Spree will remain free and open to the public, with refreshments and holiday gifts available for purchase.
Getting There
Fishtown is conveniently accessible via the Market-Frankford Line or local trolley routes, showcasing the area’s commitment to public transport options that encourage community engagement. For real-time updates, attendees can follow the Fishtown District on social media or check their website.
About Fishtown District
The Fishtown District is a dynamic area renowned for its community spirit and diverse businesses, which include everything from culinary delights to modern art. The collaborative efforts of the Fishtown Kensington Area Business Improvement District and the Fishtown Co. illustrate how proactive community planning can foster a thriving neighborhood, enhancing economic growth and cultural vibrance.
Related Events
- RiverRink Winterfest 2025–2026: Opening November 28, 2025, at the Delaware River Waterfront, this winter festival features ice skating and festive bites, further enriching Philadelphia’s holiday season. Free admission is a highlight, along with food from beloved local eateries.
- uCity Square Holiday Fest: Scheduled for December 9 and 10, 2025, this family-friendly festival includes a pop-up ice skating rink and a holiday market featuring local artisans.
FAQ
When is the Fishtown Freeze event?
The Fishtown Freeze is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025.
What activities are included in the Fishtown Freeze?
The event features over two dozen ice sculptures, live carving demonstrations, a complimentary holiday trolley, photos with Santa, a Winter Wonderland at Mural City Cellars, and more.
Is there an admission fee for the Fishtown Freeze?
Admission to the Fishtown Freeze is free throughout the district.
What if the weather is bad on December 6?
In the event of inclement weather, outdoor ice-related activities will be moved to Sunday, December 7, 2025.
How can I get to the Fishtown Freeze?
Fishtown is accessible via the Market-Frankford Line or local trolley routes. For the latest updates and more information, visit the Fishtown District’s social media pages at @fishtown_district and @fishtownfeastivale or their website at fishtowndistrict.com.
Key Features of the Fishtown Freeze
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Ice Sculptures | Over two dozen custom-designed ice sculptures displayed throughout the district, with live carving performances at various locations. |
| Holiday Trolley | A complimentary trolley operating along Frankford Avenue from noon to 6:30 p.m., assisting visitors in exploring the area. |
| Santa Photos | Free photos with Santa at Frankford Hall from noon to 4 p.m. |
| Winter Wonderland at Mural City Cellars | Enjoy mulled wine, a vendor market, and a live ice carving at 1:30 p.m. |
| Ginger Jawn Christmas Pop-Up Bar | Debut of Evil Genius Beer Company’s festive bar, featuring floor-to-ceiling decorations and the release of its “Santa I Know Him” beer. The brewery’s annual Santa 0.5K charity run is scheduled for 2:30 p.m., supporting holiday gifts for local families. |
| Official Christmas Tree | Unveiling of Fishtown’s new 25-foot-tall Christmas tree adorned with over 10,000 lights at Mamajuana Cafe Philly. |
| Indoor + Outdoor Holiday Open House at The Battery | Enjoy s’mores, snacks, and a live ice carving at 2:15 p.m. |
| Holiday Bowling and Ice Art at Brooklyn Bowl | Starting at 2 p.m., experience festive bowling and ice art displays. |
| Christmas-Themed Outdoor Patio at Fabrika | Live music enhancing the holiday atmosphere into the evening. |
| Holiday Shopping Spree | Coinciding with the Fishtown Freeze, running December 6 and 7 at more than 25 independent boutiques and retailers, offering discounts, complimentary beverages, holiday snacks, and special events. |
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