Last updated: November 11, 2024
Experience the charm of Newark during the holidays with our guide. From Newark stalwarts to wandering visitors, our guide ensures a holiday season to remember.
Popular events bring the spirit of the season alive, such as the Annual Wilmington Jaycees Christmas Parade, where festive floats and cheerful marching bands fill the streets with joy. Featuring ice sculptures and winter-themed activities, the Fire and Ice Festival offers a magical escape into the heart of winter wonder. And the Lewes Christmas Parade is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing a vibrant display of creativity and community spirit. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Newark Holiday Light Displays
Rockwood Holiday Open House
- What to Expect
- Holiday light displays and local performances.
- Description
- The Rockwood Holiday Open House is a free family event featuring spectacular holiday light displays, museum tours, free photos with Santa, and performances by local choirs and dance companies. The event also includes the Santa Shop where students and groups sell handmade crafts and jewelry.
- Where
- Wilmington | More Info : Rockwood Holiday Open House
Holiday Lights Express
- What to Expect
- Historic train ride with extensive holiday lighting.
- Description
- Ride aboard a festively decorated, 100-year-old heated train covered in thousands of holiday lights as you enjoy a 1-hour evening trip through the Red Clay Valley.
- Where
- Wilmington | More Info : Holiday Lights Express
Newark Holiday Markets and Shopping
Downtown Wilmington Winterfest at DECO
- What to Expect
- Holiday market with local vendors and festive activities.
- Description
- Downtown Wilmington Winterfest at DECO features a holiday market with local vendors, face-painting, Santa visits, hot cocoa, music, and a build-your-own bloody mary and mimosa bar.
- Where
- Wilmington | More Info : Downtown Wilmington Winterfest at DECO
Spirit of Christmas
- What to Expect
- Holiday celebration with home tours, musical performances, and festive markets.
- Description
- Delight in tours of beautifully decorated private homes and museums, enjoy musical performances throughout Historic New Castle, and find perfect gifts at our Holiday Markets. Savor a variety of festive treats from our restaurants and conclude your day with caroling and the Tree Lighting in Market Square.
- Where
- New Castle | More Info : Spirit of Christmas
Newark Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Annual Wilmington Jaycees Christmas Parade
- What to Expect
- Local celebrities and dignitaries participating in a festive parade.
- Description
- The Annual Wilmington Jaycees Christmas Parade features local celebrities, marching and string bands, community organizations, floats, and cartoon characters. Santa Claus will be present, and children can submit their Christmas wish lists to receive a response from Santa.
- Where
- Wilmington | More Info : Annual Wilmington Jaycees Christmas Parade
It’s a Wonderful Life
- What to Expect
- Classic film screening with a timeless story.
- Description
- It’s a Wonderful Life is a classic film screening featuring George Bailey’s journey through a world where he never existed, highlighting the importance of his life and community.
- Where
- Wilmington | More Info : It’s a Wonderful Life
Newark Other Holiday Activities
Holidays in Odessa
- What to Expect
- Self-guided tour of historically decorated homes and public buildings.
- Description
- Explore historic homes and public buildings in Odessa, Delaware, decorated for the holidays with special events included in the ticket price.
- Where
- Odessa | More Info : Holidays in Odessa
Santa Claus Express
- What to Expect
- Santa visits each child on board with a special treat.
- Description
- Ride the Santa Claus Express on the Wilmington & Western Railroad for a holiday experience where Santa greets everyone on board and gives children a special treat. The train is powered by historic locomotives, and families can enjoy the scenic ride to Ashland.
- Where
- Wilmington | More Info : Santa Claus Express