Christmas Things to Do In Delaware

1. Schellville Christmas Village

Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
Dates: Open through December 31, 2024 (check schedule for specific dates)
Overview:
This free holiday experience is like stepping into a Hallmark movie. Schellville Christmas Village is packed with festive activities, including train rides, a skating rink, a giant slide, holiday markets, live music, and delicious food and beverages. It’s a must-visit destination for families and holiday enthusiasts alike.

Highlights:

• Train Rides: Hop aboard the Schellville Express for a scenic ride around the village.

• Skating Rink: Enjoy free ice skating on a synthetic rink (skate rentals are available).

• Holiday Market: Browse vendors selling unique holiday gifts and handcrafted items.

• Giant Play Areas: Don’t miss the snow play zone or the incredible life-size wooden playsets.

Getting to Schellville:

• By Car: Located near Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth, with ample free parking available.

• Public Transit: DART First State buses provide service to Rehoboth Beach; local ride services can connect you to the village.

Nearby Dining and Shopping:

• Dining Options:

  • The Blue Hen: Known for creative spins on comfort food, located on Rehoboth Avenue.

  • Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats: Great for craft beers and hearty pub fare.

  • Salt Air: Enjoy farm-to-table dishes with a coastal twist.

  • The Cultured Pearl: Sushi and Asian-inspired dishes in a festive setting.

  • Egg: A breakfast and brunch favorite offering hearty, made-to-order dishes.

• Shopping Options:

  • Tanger Outlets: Shop for discounted items at popular retailers like Nike, Coach, and J.Crew.

  • Browseabout Books: A local favorite for books, toys, and gifts.

  • Penny Lane Mall: Discover charming boutiques and specialty shops along this quaint outdoor pathway.

2. Longwood Gardens Christmas

Location: Kennett Square, PA
Dates: Through January 7, 2024
Overview:
A Longwood Gardens Christmas is a beloved holiday tradition for locals and visitors alike. The gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland featuring dazzling holiday light displays, themed garden designs, musical fountains, and seasonal treats.

Highlights:

• Outdoor Lights: Walk through the iconic tunnel of lights and illuminated tree displays.

• Seasonal Displays: Inside the conservatory, enjoy stunning floral arrangements and Christmas trees.

• Live Music: Seasonal performances include carolers, organ music, and instrumental ensembles.

Getting to Longwood Gardens:

• By Car: Easily accessible from Routes 1 or 52, with ample on-site parking available.

• By Public Transit: SEPTA’s Wilmington/Newark Line connects to nearby stations with rideshare options available.

Nearby Dining and Shopping:

• Dining Options:

  • The Creamery: A family-friendly beer garden and event space with seasonal menus.

  • Talula’s Table: Known for its farm-to-table dishes and gourmet market.

  • The Kennett Brewing Company: A cozy spot for craft beer and comfort food.

  • Sovana Bistro: Offers upscale Mediterranean-inspired dining.

• Shopping Options:

  • Kennett Square Farmers Market: Shop for local produce, baked goods, and artisan gifts.

  • Kennett Square Jewelers: Find one-of-a-kind jewelry and accessories.

  • Bedbugzz: A charming children’s boutique featuring toys, clothes, and unique holiday gifts.

3. Christmas in Odessa

Location: Odessa, DE
Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024, 10 AM – 5 PM
Overview:
Step back in time with this charming historic holiday event. Christmas in Odessa offers tours of beautifully decorated 18th- and 19th-century homes, live choir performances, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The event supports local preservation efforts.

Highlights:

• Historic Home Tours: Explore decorated private residences in this colonial town.

• Choir Performances: Enjoy live music by local choirs and bands throughout the day.

• Holiday Market: Browse for handcrafted gifts and treats at the local artisan market.

Getting to Odessa:

• By Car: Odessa is easily accessible via DE-1 or US-13. Free parking is available near the event area.

Nearby Dining and Shopping:

• Dining Options:

  • Cantwell’s Tavern: Enjoy traditional American cuisine in a historic setting.

  • The Everett Theatre Café: Perfect for a light bite and coffee.

  • Grain H2O: Located nearby in Middletown, offering waterfront dining with casual fare.

• Shopping Options:

  • Dutch Country Farmers Market: Located in Middletown, this market offers fresh baked goods, produce, and holiday gifts.

  • Chesapeake Bay Gift Baskets: Perfect for pre-made or custom holiday gift sets.

4. Spirit of Christmas

Location: New Castle, DE
Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024, 10 AM – 5 PM
Overview:
Spirit of Christmas transforms New Castle into a Charles Dickens-inspired holiday town. Visitors can enjoy historic home tours, live music, a holiday market, and appearances by Santa Claus.

Highlights:

• Holiday Market: Shop for artisan goods and holiday gifts from local vendors.

• Live Performances: Choirs and carolers provide festive entertainment throughout the day.

• Historic Home Tours: Step inside some of New Castle’s most iconic homes, decorated for the season.

Getting to New Castle:

• By Car: Located just off I-95 or DE-9, with public parking available.

• By Public Transit: DART buses provide service to New Castle, with walking access to the event area.

Nearby Dining and Shopping:

• Dining Options:

  • Jessop’s Tavern: A colonial-themed restaurant serving hearty dishes like pot pie and roast turkey.

  • Nora Lee’s French Quarter Bistro: Creole and Cajun-inspired cuisine in a cozy setting.

  • Battery Park Grille: A waterfront spot offering casual meals with a view.

• Shopping Options:

  • New Castle Farmers Market: A great place to find unique gifts and homemade treats.

  • First State Antiques: Browse an array of vintage and antique treasures.

5. Holiday Lights Express

Location: Wilmington & Western Railroad, Hockessin, DE
Dates: Select evenings through December 2024
Overview:
Climb aboard the Holiday Lights Express, a festive train ride through the scenic Red Clay Valley. Enjoy holiday music, twinkling lights, and the cozy atmosphere of this historic railroad.

Highlights:

• Train Ride: The 45-minute ride features views of thousands of lights along the route.

• Themed Experience: The train cars are decorated for the holidays, creating a magical ambiance.

Getting to the Railroad:

• By Car: Located in Hockessin, DE, just off DE-41. Parking is available on-site.

Nearby Dining and Shopping:

• Dining Options:

  • Back Burner Restaurant: Known for its seasonal menus and cozy atmosphere.

  • Drip Café: A favorite for coffee and brunch items.

  • Six Paupers Tavern: A casual pub serving elevated comfort food.

• Shopping Options:

  • Evergreen Farm: Browse for fresh wreaths, garlands, and holiday decorations.

  • Marshallton Antique Center: A treasure trove for vintage holiday decor.

6. Holiday Magic at Wilmington Riverfront

Location: Wilmington Riverfront, Wilmington, DE
Dates: Weekends through December 2024
Overview:
Celebrate the holidays with dazzling light displays, face painting, a petting zoo, and live music at the Wilmington Riverfront. On select nights, Santa himself will make an appearance.

Highlights:

• Holiday Lights: Walk through beautifully lit installations by the waterfront.

• Family Fun: Activities include hot chocolate stands, a petting zoo, and live music.

Getting to the Riverfront:

• By Car: Located just off I-95 in Wilmington, with parking available in lots or along the riverfront.

• By Public Transit: Wilmington Amtrak Station is within walking distance.

Nearby Dining and Shopping:

• Dining Options:

  • Iron Hill Brewery: A riverfront staple offering craft beers and hearty meals.

  • Big Fish Grill: A casual seafood spot with a festive atmosphere.

  • Constitution Yards: A winter-themed outdoor beer garden offering seasonal drinks and snacks.

• Shopping Options:

  • Riverfront Market: A hub for fresh produce, baked goods, and unique gifts.

  • The Shipyard Shops: Explore small boutiques offering holiday merchandise.