The holidays are a magical time in Delaware! With Christmas lights, historic houses, parades, and more, there are tons of festive things to do all over the state. Here is my list of the must-see things in Delaware during the holiday season:

 

Christmas at Longwood Gardens

Ok, technically Longwood Gardens is in Pennsylvania, but it’s so close to Delaware, and the gardens put on quite a show for Christmas. If there is one thing you do during the holidays, it should be Christmas at Longwood. You’ll be amazed by the half a million lights in the outdoor light display. Plus, enjoy incredible displays inside the conservatory and throughout the gardens. Tickets sell out, so make sure you book your tickets at least a few days before you plan on visiting, and even earlier if you are planning to go on a weekend! Learn more and get tickets.

 

Yuletide at Winterthur

Winterthur was the home of horticulturist Henry Francis du Pont, and Yuletide is its holiday celebration! Tour the beautiful historic mansion with its elaborate holiday decor. Don’t miss the famous dried-flower tree! Learn more.

 

Holidays at Nemours Estate

The Nemours Estate was the home of Alfred I. duPont, and features a 77-room mansion and the largest formal French gardens in North America. During Christmastime, the mansion is decorated for the season, including some of the duPonts’ original decorations. Learn more.

 

Holidays at Hagley

Hagley is where E. I. du Pont founded his gunpowder company in 1802. You can see how the gunpowder was made, tour the water-powered machine shop, and tour the historic du Pont home. During the holidays, experience holiday decorations, special exhibitions, Santa, and more! Learn more.

 

Ice Skating at the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest

This is my favorite place for ice skating! It’s worth the extra time to drive to Philly. The Olympic-size ice skating rink overlooks the Delaware River, and there’s even a lodge and winter garden with a holiday tree. Learn more.

 

Downtown Lewes + Christmas Parade

Lewes is really pretty during the holidays. Take a stroll down 2nd Street to experience this small town’s charm. Each year, Lewes also hosts a hometown Christmas parade!

 

Milford Holiday Stroll

Every year the town of Milford puts on a Holiday Stroll! The holiday event highlights local businesses, restaurants, and the arts community. I haven’t been to the Holiday Stroll, but I love walking through downtown Milford any time of the year.

 

Wreath-making and other programs at Delaware State Parks

Delaware State Parks offers lots of fun programs for the holidays! You can make wreaths and baskets, decorate ornaments, meet Santa, or go on a guided hike! Check out this year’s programs.

 

Other fun holiday activities in Delaware:

• Winter WonderFest light show
• Santa Claus Lane in Red Lion
• Getting a Christmas tree at Loblolly Acres
• Christmas Tree Lighting in Rehoboth

 

What are your favorite things to do to celebrate the holidays?