Winter River Fest at Merwin's Wharf on December 5, 2020. (Kyle Lanzer/Cleveland Metroparks)Photo: Kyle Lanzer/Cleveland Metroparks
(Cleveland, OH) - Beginning November 26, 2021 the Cleveland Metroparks will transform Rivergate Park and Merwin's Wharf for the Holiday season.
For the first time, the event will bring a seasonal ice skating rink to Rivergate Park providing guests with a new recreational opportunity along the Cuyahoga River in the Flat along with Santa, a beer garden, fire pits, a retail shop and an igloo dining experience.
“The holiday season is a special time in Cleveland Metroparks and we are thrilled to bring back Winter RiverFest along the Cuyahoga River,” said Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian M. Zimmerman. “With ice skating, festive dining and more, Winter RiverFest provides an opportunity for families to create new holiday traditions along our scenic waterfront.”
Skating reservations and skate rentals are available in advance online in 90-minute time slots. Skating reservations are $12 (ages 6 and up) and $5 for ages 3 to 5. Ice skate rentals are $3. Walk-ups will be accepted based on availability. Private ice rink rentals are also available by visiting clevelandmetroparks.com/WinterRiverFest.
Winter River Fest at Merwin's Wharf on January 9, 2021. (Kyle Lanzer/Cleveland Metroparks)Photo: Kyle Lanzer/Cleveland Metroparks
Winter RiverFest also marks the return of the igloo village at Merwin’s Wharf along the Cuyahoga River. Igloo rentals accommodate up to eight guests and can be reserved online or by visiting merwinswharf.com. Igloo rentals start at a two-hour minimum for $50, plus a food and drink minimum. Indoor dining at Merwin’s Wharf will also be available on a first come, first served basis throughout the event.
Winter RiverFest will run Monday-Thursday 4-7:30 p.m., Friday 2-9:30 p.m. and Saturday- Sunday noon-9:30 p.m. from Nov. 26 through Jan. 2. Special holiday hours can be found at clevelandmetroparks.com/WinterRiverFest.
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