The Independence Blue Cross Summerfest, one of the Philadelphia waterfront’s favorite summertime traditions, is now under way.

The theme this summer is “more is more,” inviting visitors to try plenty of new amenities, including the expansion to a new, 18-hole mini-golf course, an enormous arcade, more amusement rides, and an expanded menu of culinary delights for the whole family from Skelly’s Amusements and Chickie’s & Pete’s.

The offerings of rides will also be immense, with additions of a children’s roller coaster, swings ride, whirling ride, and more, adding to the returning favorites of the Ferris wheel, double-decker carousel, and Gravity Storm Moon Bounce.

“Exercise and play are essential for our physical, mental, and emotional health, and there’s no better place for summertime fun than Philly’s Waterfront,” said Stephen P. Fera, IBX’s Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and President of Government Markets. “Independence Blue Cross is proud to be a founding sponsor of Summerfest, and we’re excited for what’s in store for this outstanding, iconic space.”

With the construction of the future Park at Penn’s Landing under way, transforming the Delaware River Waterfront in real time, skating will be on hiatus for the summer, returning in time for Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest.

“To say it’s an exciting time at the Delaware River Waterfront this summer would be an understatement,” said Delaware River Waterfront Corporation President Joe Forkin. “We are in the midst of a once-in-a-generation transformation of our beautiful waterfront, and not only can you come and see the transformation happening in real time, but you can bounce around our parks with the beautiful Delaware River Trail as your path and enjoy more activity than ever before at Independence Blue Cross Summerfest, Spruce Street Harbor Park, Cherry Street Pier, Race Street Pier, and beyond. We have no plans of letting construction slow us down, and to prove it, we’re offering more of everything for a blowout summer.”

Park season and hours of operation

The summer season at Independence Blue Cross Summerfest will run through Sept. 2 with the following opening hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 5-10 PM
• Friday: 5-11 PM
• Saturday: 11 AM-11 PM
• Sunday: 11 AM-10 PM

*Park Concessions will close 30 minutes before closing time.

Attractions, tickets, and pricing

The site is free to enter, with amenities and concessions pay-as-you-go.

• Ferris Wheel: $6
• Double-Decker Carousel: $5
• Gravity Storm Moon Bounce: $9
• Spinning Dragon Ride: $4
• Chair Swing Ride: $4
• Children’s Roller Coaster: $4
• Car Ride: $4
• Mini-Golf: $8 per person (18-hole course)*

*Independence Blue Cross Cardholders: Free round of mini-golf for up to four people per cardholder. (Must show member ID card.)

For more information and updates, check out the Independence Blue Cross Summerfest.