Going to be a Freeze Out on Feb. 1 in Manayunk
Jan 15, 2025
If it’s going to be cold, might as well make the most of it.
Manayunk will take full advantage of the winter chill during the Founders Philly Freeze-Out, Freeze Out Run and 2025 MNYK Chowder Crawl on Feb. 1, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“Founders Philly Freeze-Out is the perfect blend of winter wonder and community celebration,” said Manayunk Development Corp. Director of Events Caitlin Marsilii. “Each year, we’re incredibly honored to bring in Ice Sculpture Philly, Peter Slavin and his incredible team, who work with the business owners to bring Manayunk to life on ice.”
Founders Brewing Co. and the development corporation are teaming up to transform Main Street into a winter wonderland with more than 25 photo-worthy ice sculptures created by “ice king” Peter Slavin of Ice Sculpture Philadelphia, plus 10 live carving demonstrations, an ice slide, snowy igloo, winter market, chowder crawl and more frosty surprises.
The day starts with the Freeze Out Run by Philadelphia Runner and New Balance at 9 a.m., followed by the Freeze Out main event and the chowder crawl.
Festivities during the day will also include the Lion Dance with New Leaf for Chinese and Lunar New Year, offerings from popular food trucks, Founders and MNYK giveaways, and Founders specials at restaurants and bars up and down Main Street.
“Each year, we’re thrilled to sponsor the Founders Philly Freeze-Out in Manayunk because it showcases the local community, the Philly food scene, lively street celebrations, and, of course, excellent beer,” said Courtney Moore, Market Manager at Founders Brewing Co. “The event shines a spotlight on Manayunk businesses through the unique medium of ice. Whether you’re exploring Main Street, taking part in the Manayunk Chowder Crawl, or stopping by a bar to sample our new Mortal Bloom Hazy IPA or 0% Hoppy Mood, it’s the perfect way to make a toast to winter.”
Founders Philly Freeze Out is free to attend, with food, drink and shopping pay as you go. Freeze Out Run is no charge to participate, with advance registration required. 2025 MNYK Chowder Crawl is $18 per ticket. For event info, race registration and chowder crawl tickets, visit manayunk.com/events.
The team of artists, led by Slavin, have created concepts for ice sculptures and festivals throughout the world.
Whether it’s a full-sized ice piano or a custom ice luge, Ice Sculpture Philly can bring almost anything to life with ice. This year at Founders Philly Freeze-Out, they’ll be bringing an ice slide, 10 live carving demonstrations throughout the day, and an exciting array of ice sculptures ranging from Roman busts, oversized coffee cups, Rocky, and pints of beer.
Up and down Main Street, beer lovers can find specials from Founders at top restaurants and bars, including Bar Jawn, Bayou Bar & Grill, Cactus Cantina, JD McGillicuddy’s, Lucky’s Last Chance, Manayunk Brewing Co., Mia Ragazza, Ryan’s Pub, Taqueria Amor, The Brass Tap, The Goat’s Beard, Union Tap House, Winnie’s Manayunk and more to be announced.
Many of those same restaurants will also be participating in The 2025 Manayunk Chowder Crawl where more than 12 restaurants will put their own spin on the winter comfort food. The crawl will take guests on a culinary journey as they sample chowder of all kinds like chipotle chicken chowder, tom kah salmon chowder, turkey corn chowder, and traditional clam.
There will be plenty of places to warm up, including the Founders Winter Market at RichardsApex, 4170 Main St.
The heated, curated market will host local artisans and makers of all kinds offering items like fresh focaccia, home goods, prints, ceramics, planters, upcycled clothing, gourmet pickles, candles, doggie bandanas, and more.
Guests are also welcome to warm up in Manayunk’s many shops, and businesses who will be offering sales and promotions during Founders Philly Freeze-Out.