There’s nothing as nice as some fun on the ice, and this weekend offers an opportunity for wintry recreation along Baltimore’s waterfront.
On Saturday, families can enjoy a free pop-up ice-skating rink as well as other activities from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Middle Branch Park near Cherry Hill. The park is located at 3301 Waterview Ave.
The 2nd Annual Youth Resiliency Institute Winter Activation event will feature free pony rides, free skate rentals, live music, and free activities for all ages. Plus, attendees can purchase food and drinks, including hot chocolate, funnel cakes, dishes from Shareef’s Grill, and more.
“Middle Branch Park is a true waterfront treasure, showcasing natural beauty and providing year-round recreational opportunities,” said Fanon Hill, executive director and co-founder of the Youth Resiliency Institute. “We’re thrilled to partner with the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership and Baltimore City’s Department of Recreation and Parks for the Middle Branch Park Winter Activation, creating a fun and festive opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.”
Public parking will not be available at the Middle Branch Park parking lot during the event. However, attendees can park for free at MedStar Harbor Hospital Parking Lot 6, the yellow lot at 3001 S. Hanover St. There will also be a free shuttle to transport attendees between Middle Branch Park and the hospital parking lot.
The Youth Resiliency Institute is a Black-led organization under Fusion Partnerships, Inc. The institute implements community engagement and culturally responsive initiatives to address discrimination that has limited many residents’ access to local parks.
The group oversees several events at Middle Branch Park throughout the year, including the annual Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival on the Fourth of July.
This Saturday’s event is supported by lead sponsor South Baltimore Gateway Partnership and Baltimore City Recreation and Parks.
“We’re excited to deepen our partnership with the Youth Resiliency Institute to bring this exciting event to the community,” said Ethan Abbott, Transformational Projects Manager at South Baltimore Gateway Partnership, in a statement. “Ice skating at Middle Branch Park captures the spirit of the season and provide a joyful experience for all of South Baltimore. Building on the success of YRI’s annual Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival, this winter event reinforces our commitment to delivering expanded, year-round programming at Middle Branch Park for South Baltimore communities.”
