Even though we are supposed to get snow later today (ugh), it actually is spring! We just got in these awesome new handmade wood planters by local Philly artist Melissa Moore of Nikkuu Design. Cut from a variety of woods (oak, pine, walnut), these planters are the perfect size for air plants or succulents. If you are like me and can’t keep plants alive, these will be perfect for you! If you kill these, you really aren’t meant to own plants! Comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Some are painted with splashes of bright white or aqua paint for a pop of color, while others just show off the wood grain. Grab a couple for your window ledge to try to evoke some warmer weather! $12-$38, each comes with an air plant.
This past weekend was the opening of Waterfront Winterfest – a season long holiday celebration that marks the 20th Anniversary of the Blue Cross River Rink. It is truly a winter wonderland that will get you and your family in the holiday spirit. Plan to come for the entire Winterfest experience, which includes our Art Star Holiday Market (12 craft vendors selling within mini pop up shops, including Art Star!), The Lodge Bar + Restaurant, cozy Fire Pits where you can make s’mores, an incredible light show that begins at 5 every night and runs every hour, and of course – ice skating!! Take a little tour of Winterfest through these photos + be sure to come check it out in person! And come back often b/c we will have a new mix of craft vendors each day (see website for complete schedule.
Photo by Matt StanleyPhoto by Matt Stanley
Our vendors are set up within the recycled shipping containers that line the front perimeter of The Lodge Pop Up Restaurant + Bar. It is not your typical craft show set up. It is a smaller line-up of artists, but each have created their own mini shop within the containers. We invited only the best vendors who all create quality and unique handmade goods. We also tried to make sure we had a good mix of items each day, so there is something for everyone.
Photo by Matt Stanleyphoto by Mitchell Leff
The recycled shipping containers create the walls of The Lodge Pop Up Restaurant, which is in the center and covered with a giant warming tent. It is nice + cozy inside. The food is by Award Winning chef, George Sabatino who is also known for creating the menu at Morgan’s Pier. My favorite has been the Sweet Potato and Kale Pocket Pies with a spiked hot cider. The restaurant opens at 5pm weekdays and 11am on weekends.
photo by Matt Stanley
There are also grab + go concession stands open the entire time where you can get sandwiches by Sardine Bar, hot chocolate, spiced chai, coffee, chocolate covered popcorn, and more.
photo by Matt Stanley
Winterfest is very family friendly. There are roaming performers, hoopers, stilt walkers, etc that will be sure to entertain the kiddos. If your kids are old enough, send them off ice skating or to the indoor arcade while you shop and grab an adult beverage!
photo by Matt Stanley
Get cozy around the fire pits and make some s’mores! If you are coming after 5, the light show is a definite must see!!
photo by Mitchell Leff
Don’t forget about the ice skating! The music they have playing is all really good too.
One thing I do recommend is to find street parking, walk, or take public transportation. The parking fee is $15, which is okay if you plan on staying for the whole day but if you just plan on coming for a few hours, there are plenty of other options. There is no fee to come to Winterfest, unless you are parking in the lot or ice skating. We hope to see you there!!
