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Gingerbread House at Hagley Museum

Weekend Things to Do, December 16-18

The historic streets are decked, the lights are bright, and all things merry are here in Delaware. Cozy up with a cup of cocoa, or in a warm theatre enjoying a festive show. Whichever you choose these weekend things to do are sure to make your spirits bright.  

Mixers & Elixers at Winterthur Museum  
Winterthur  
December 17th 
Cheers to the weekend! Wind down the week with a seasonal featured cocktail, small bites, and live music at a pop-up location on the regal grounds of Winterthur Museum, Garden, & Library. 
 
Riverfront Lights 
Wilmington  
December 17th-18th 
On Friday stroll along the Riverfront to find jolly ole saint Nick, and a beautiful Ice Carving Demonstration. There will also be free samples of apple cider from the Juice Joint. On Saturday you'll be welcomed by the harmonic sounds of local choirs! All this month, check out the light festival on the Riverfront! The trees will be decorated from Hare Pavilion to Public Dock.

Scrooge The Musical 
Rehoboth Beach 
December 17th-19th  
Grab your popcorn, and get ready to experience the spirit of the season! At Clear Space Theatre you can enjoy the Christmas classic Scrooge!  

Winter Wonderfest
Milton  
December 17th-19th 
Grab the cocoa to-go, bring your best winter blanket and cozy up in the car for a drive through the wonderland that is Winter Wonderfest! With lights around every corner this drive is sure to wow you.  
 
Hagley’s Gingerbread House Contest
Wilmington  
December 17th-19th   
Join Hagley's fourth-annual Gingerbread House Contest with a "Home for the Holidays" theme, and your creation might win a prize! 
 
Holiday Tours at Nemours Estate  
December 17th-19th   
WilmingtonTake a step back in time on a regal journey through Nemours Estate. Decked in its finest 19th century décor.  

A Farmers Christmas  
Dover  
December 17th-19th 
Recapture the holiday season of yesteryear with a stroll through the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village. Enjoy songs of strolling carolers, fresh baked cookies, holiday crafts and visits with Santa. 
 
Lewes Lights 

Lewes 
December 17th-19th 
Journey through the quaint town of Lewes and be wowed by the lights homeowners have revealed for the season. From 6pm-8pm enjoy the harmonic tunes of local Christmas carolers at canal front park.  

Elf the Musical 
Wilmington  
December 18th  
The Wilmington Drama League is taking the hilarious adventures of Buddy the Elf to the stage! Pass through the seven levels of the candy cane forest, through the sea of swirly-twirly gum drops, and make your way to a festive weekend in Wilmington!  
 
Weekend Wonderland in Bethany 2021 
Bethany Beach  
December 18th  
Celebrate the holidays in style by the seaside at Weekend Wonderland in Bethany. Shoppers and visitors can take advantage of great tax-free shopping, fun activities, and be part of the elf on a shelf scavenger hunt and cocoa crawl. 

Downtown Holiday Village & Pop-Up Market 
Wilmington 
December 18th 
North Market Street will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland, complete with holiday decorations, carols, entertainment, arts & craft activities, special guests, downtown gift card drawings, gift wrapping services and food donation collections, and a brand new Pop-up Market for local vendors to sell unique gifts from 10am - 2pm. 
 
Jingle Bell Wagon Ride 
Laurel 
December 18th
$6 for adults, $3 for children under 13 
Journey through Trap Pond State Park for a winter wagon ride full of holiday spirit. End your ride with the cozy comfort of a warm campfire.  
 
Merry Christmas Baby! At Blue Earl Brewing Company  
Smyrna 
December 18th
Eat Drink and be Merry! Blue Earl is decking #TheJuke with pints, flights, growlers and good cheer as they celebrate the most wonderful time of the year! Complete with live music, specials, and an ugly sweater competition.  

Santa Clause Express by Wilmington Western Railroad 
Wilmington  
December 19th
Ho ho ho! All aboard a merry exploration with Wilmington Western Railroad. This fun for the whole family train ride will include a chocolate treat, and a photo with Santa! Be sure to bring your own camera, and your jolly spirit!  

Bonus weekend adventure ideas:  

  • All things merry and bright are here in Delaware! Browse locally made gifts for the holidays, make plans to attend one of Delaware’s Winter Events, or round up the family for Winter Break Fun 

  • Explore your craft beer taste buds along DE on Tap! Download the DE on Tap app and check in at each brewery you visit for a chance to win a prize!  

  • Capture the perfect Insta-worthy moment along the Delaware Discoveries Trail! With eleven pieces of interactive street artwork, this self-led activity offers outdoor recreation and memories that will last. Tag your photos with #DelawareDiscoveries for the chance to win a limited-edition prize!   

Please review location information before visiting and remember to explore safely by following recommended safety precautions including, wearing a face covering and social distancing if not vaccinated or if it is required by certain locations and staying home if you're feeling sick.