As the holiday season approaches, Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley are once again transformed into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive cheer, and historic charm. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking to create new holiday traditions with your family, these five spectacular displays will surely inspire your holiday spirit. From dazzling gardens to grand estates, there’s something magical in every corner of the region this holiday season.
1. A Longwood Christmas
Longwood Gardens once again dazzles visitors with its famed holiday display, A Longwood Christmas. Step into a wonderland where towering trees are wrapped in shimmering lights, and fountains dance in sync to your favorite holiday tunes. Indoors, the Conservatory glows with hundreds of poinsettias, holiday wreaths, and elegant trees. As always, Longwood’s outdoor gardens will feature thousands of lights illuminating the paths, trees, and the enchanting Italian Water Garden. A seasonal favorite, the experience is sure to delight both young and old alike. Be sure to bundle up and explore the lighted meadow and magical treehouses for a full day of holiday fun.
A Longwood Christmas: November 22, 2024 - January 12, 2025
2. Yuletide at Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library continues its timeless holiday tradition with Yuletide at Winterthur. Visitors can tour Henry Francis du Pont’s former estate, beautifully decorated with elaborate holiday displays. From sparkling trees adorned with antique ornaments to historic holiday traditions brought to life, each room at Winterthur tells a unique holiday story. Be sure to catch the live music performances and stop by for a cup of cocoa at the Winterthur Museum Store. New for 2024, the exhibit will feature more interactive elements and expanded outdoor displays, making this year’s experience even more immersive.
Yuletide at Winterthur: November 23, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Discover the rich holiday traditions of the 19th-century du Pont family at Hagley Museum and Library. Holidays at Hagley brings history to life with holiday displays that reflect the customs and celebrations of early American life. Visit the beautifully decorated Eleutherian Mills residence, where you’ll find garlands, wreaths, and ornaments that showcase the craftsmanship of the era. Outdoors, twinkling lights guide you through the historic powder yards and along the scenic Brandywine River. Enjoy special events, such as evening candlelight tours and craft demonstrations, that celebrate the season’s history.
Holidays at Hagley: November 29, 2024 - January 1, 2025
The stunning Nemours Estate is transformed into a holiday masterpiece each season, and 2024 is no exception. NOËL at Nemours features lavish decorations that adorn the grand rooms of Alfred I. du Pont’s mansion, complemented by twinkling lights and festive greenery across the grounds. The estate’s magnificent Christmas tree, standing tall in the Great Hall, is always a highlight, with new decor themes each year. Guided tours offer insights into the du Pont family’s holiday traditions, while self-guided visits allow you to explore the house and gardens at your own pace.
NOËL at Nemours Estate: November 19 - December 29, 2024
5. The Brandywine Railroad
A beloved family tradition, the Brandywine Railroad Holiday Display at the Brandywine Museum of Art continues to captivate visitors of all ages. This expansive model train display winds its way through a miniature winter wonderland, complete with snow-covered mountains, charming villages, and holiday scenes. The museum’s galleries are also adorned with festive decorations, and a rotating display of holiday-themed artworks adds a special touch to the experience. Be sure to bring the kids to see Santa’s workshop in action—this delightful display is perfect for train enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike.
The Brandywine Railroad: November 16, 2024 - January 5, 2025
These five spectacular holiday events are just the start of the seasonal magic found throughout Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley. For more holiday events please go to VisitWilmingtonDE.com/HolidayMagic.
This holiday season make new traditions with an extra special getaway to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley. From Christmastime decor at…
Moonloop Photography
Author
Jessica Horstmann
Digital Marketing Manager of the Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau
About Jessica:
Hi, I'm Jessica, the Digital Marketing Manager at the Greater Wilmington CVB and a passionate advocate for all things Delaware. When I moved to Delaware at ten, I discovered a state that perfectly balanced the energy of city life with the serenity of the countryside—all just a short drive apart. Delaware may be small, but it’s packed with vibrant attractions, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences that make every day an adventure. As a traveler and storyteller, I’m passionate about uncovering and sharing the First State’s best-kept secrets. Through my blogs, I invite you to join me in exploring why Delaware is small but mighty—there’s always something new and exciting to discover!
