Delaware Winter Bucket List

It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Delaware! Make the most of this winter by taking advantage of all there is to experience from holidays shows to exploring the great outdoors.

See a sparkling holiday display
The twinkle of holiday lights and the cheer of festive displays truly bring out the spirit of the holidays. Admire Christmas lights of the Red Clay Valley from a car on the Wilmington & Western Railroad or drive through the Light Spectacular at Winter WonderFest – both are sure to leave you pleased! Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library is known for its annual Yuletide featuring elaborate, classical decorations, best enjoyed during evening hours. Step back in time with traditional Colonial displays in Historic New Castle or Odessa throughout the holiday season.

Glide across the ice
Winter isn’t the same without revisiting your childhood with a skate around the rink. Enjoy a skating session at the Wilmington Riverfront at the Riverfront Rink, open through March, and take a stroll along the Christina River before enjoying a nice dinner and drinks at a nearby spot like Iron Hill or Del Pez. Further south, you can strap on some skates at Winter WonderFest, open through New Year’s Eve, while taking advantage of all the festival has to offer including carnival rides, food trucks and an on-site Christmas tree market!

See a holiday show
Sit back and relax while the spotlight shines on center stage featuring traditional shows like “A Christmas Carol” by the Delaware Theatre Company and newer favorites like “Elf” by the Second Street Players. Music-lovers can enjoy shows like “Celebrate the Season” featuring only bells, or an evening of jazz at Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library. Catch the holiday favorite “It’s a Wonderful Life” on screen in Wilmington at the Riverfront Theatre. For an immersive experience, visit New Castle which will embody the spirit of Christmas on Dec. 14 with a day full of carols by colonial re-enactors, historical tours, and live entertainment throughout the town.

Lace up your sneakers
Did you know winter is a great time to explore the outdoors? Enjoy the peace of mind a scenic bike ride or hike will bring you, along with gorgeous ocean views you’ll catch from open boardwalks, both bike and dog-friendly all winter. Start the new year on the right foot with one of Delaware State Parks’ First Day Hikes and catch a view of native wildlife including birds and seals. Take a tour with Delmarva Birding Weekends in January to see some of the highlights!

Sip a festive cocktail
Delaware’s craft beverage locations outdo themselves every year with creative concoctions. Painted Stave Distilling is sure to impress with its seasonal “Scarlett Cranberry Vodka” and “Salted Caramel White Russian.” If you’re in need of decked-out digs to enjoy your cocktails, look no further than Klondike Kate’s “Sleigh Bar” or Wilmington’s pop-up “Blitzen Bar” where the Christmas spirit is sure to envelop you!