There's plenty to do around Delaware this weekend, including the Holiday Open House at Rockwood and Christmas in Odessa
When it comes to things to do each week, there’s no place quite like Delaware. The First State is a hub for activities of all sorts, from art exhibits to food festivals and inventive workshops. Yet with all the happenings across the state, it can be a challenge to figure out exactly what to do. To get started, here are our top picks for the weekend.
Friday, December 5 & Saturday, December 6
Celebrate the start of the holiday season at the 25th annual Holiday Open House at Rockwood Park & Museum. Enjoy a tree lighting, live music, visits with Santa Claus, holiday train rides and so many more fun festive activities. Get some Christmas shopping done at the event’s holiday market and sample yummy snacks and refreshments at local food trucks.
4651 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington
Get in the holiday spirit at the annual Holiday Village & Market hosted by the Lewes Historical Society. Purchase handcrafted jewelry, artwork, holiday decorations and so much more from local artists and crafters. Visit the event’s historic interpreters to learn about holiday traditions of the past. Sample delicious food from local food vendors or visit nearby Lewes restaurants for a bite to eat. This is a free, all-ages event.
110 Shipcarpenter Street, Lewes
Friday, December 5
Attend the annual Winter Greenery Sale & Market at the Delaware Center for Horticulture in Wilmington for all your holiday decoration needs. Purchase everything from greens for DIY wreaths and garlands to handmade wreaths from local artisans.
1810 North Dupont Street, Wilmington
Enjoy a night of holiday fun at Winterfest in Newark. Attend the annual tree lighting ceremony and enjoy live holiday entertainment from local talent. Visit Santa Claus and enjoy a fun photo opportunity. Grab a bite to eat at 2025 Best of Delaware winners Homegrown and Taverna, located on Newark’s Main Street.
111 East Main Street, Newark
Saturday, December 6
Purchase one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and decorations from local vendors and artisans at the annual Hodgson Holiday Craft Fair. Browse everything from custom wreaths and garlands to handmade jewelry and home decor. This is a free, all-ages event.
2575 Glasgow Avenue, Newark
A Delaware tradition for 61 years, Christmas in Odessa offers holiday-themed tours of the town of Odessa’s many historic homes and businesses. Enjoy Christmas concerts and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. End the night with the festive Town Tree Lighting. Purchase tickets online.
506 High Street, Odessa
Sunday, December 7
Enjoy a musical adaptation of the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge presented by Rehoboth’s Clear Space Theatre Company. On Sunday December 7, the show will be playing at both 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Purchase tickets here.
20 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
Visit Santa Claus at the Holly Jolly Brunch at Crooked Hammock in Lewes. Participate in festive family-friendly activities and crafts and enjoy the Crooked Hammock’s fun holiday decorations. Sip delicious brews, cocktails and homemade hot cocoa. Purchase tickets online.
36707 Crooked Hammock Way, Lewes
Looking for more things to do this weekend? Check out our Delaware event calendar, where you can also submit events of your own happening in the region.
*Please call ahead or check online to confirm event cancelations or changes.