This holiday season, the charming town of Odessa, Delaware, is set to sparkle brighter than ever with the debut of Twinklefest, a brand-new celebration filled with lights, laughter, and timeless holiday cheer. Presented by the Historic Odessa Foundation, this one-day event will take place on Saturday, November 22, from 1 to 5:30 p.m., transforming the historic district into a winter wonderland of glowing lights, live entertainment, and family fun.  

Twinklefest marks an exciting new chapter in Odessa’s beloved holiday season. As twilight falls, thousands of white lights will illuminate the town’s 18th- and 19th-century homes, the charming streetscape, and the grounds of the Corbit-Sharp House (circa 1774), culminating in a magical Twinklefest Lighting Countdown, when Odessa’s historic buildings will shine in a brilliant display of white lights. to end the evening.  

The events’ proceeds will support the Foundation’s ongoing historic preservation and education programs, which benefit more than 5,000 Delaware students annually. 

Step Back in Time: A Jane Austen Christmas at 250 

At the heart of this year’s festivities is “A Jane Austen Christmas at 250”, a holiday exhibition inside the Wilson-Warner House (c.1769) celebrating the 250th anniversary of the beloved author’s birth. Guests will journey through beautifully decorated rooms inspired by Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Emma, experiencing the customs and charm of an 18th-century English Christmas through festive vignettes, candlelight, and authentic period décor. 

Family Fun & Festive Favorites 

Twinklefest offers something special for visitors of all ages. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy: 

  • Santa’s Workshop & Sleigh Photo Op: Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, write letters with quill pens, and snap a holiday photo in a 19th-century sleigh. 
     
  • Storybook Trees Exhibit: Wander through over 30 themed trees inside the Corbit-Sharp House, each decorated by local families, schools, and community groups to bring favorite children’s stories to life. 
     
  • Holiday Greens Workshop (2–3:30 p.m.): Create your own festive wreaths and swags with fresh greens in a hands-on workshop (limited to 10 participants; $75 includes all materials and Twinklefest admission). 
     
  • Hands-On Children’s Crafts: Kids can make ornaments, paint dinnerware, and design keepsakes to take home. 
     
  • Freedom Seekers: The Odessa Story: Learn about the town’s role in the Underground Railroad with stories told at the historic Muskrat Skinning Shack and enjoy scenic hayrides along Appoquinimink Creek.
     
  • Live Performances: Watch the Dover English Country Dancers perform timeless dances from Austen’s era. 

                                                  Twinklefest Map 2025 Odessa

Cheer, Music & Merriment 

As dusk approaches, gather around the fire pits for warmth and good cheer at Cantwell’s Twinklefest Cantina, where guests can sip hot drinks, roast S’mores, and enjoy live music by the Sheehan Brothers. Don’t forget to dress for the season; an Ugly Sweater Contest will crown the most festively dressed attendees! 

The event also features a Twinklefest Holiday Marketplace, where artisans and local vendors will sell handcrafted gifts, decorations, and seasonal treats. For foodies and history lovers alike, costumed interpreters will offer demonstrations of 18th-century hearth cooking, filling the air with nostalgic aromas of holidays past. 

The Grand Finale: The Twinklefest Lighting Countdown 

As the day draws to a close, everyone is invited to gather in the town center for the Twinklefest Lighting Countdown, a breathtaking moment when Odessa’s historic homes, streets, and trees glow to life in a canopy of soft white light. 

Tickets are available now at HistoricOdessa.org 

  • Non-member family package (2 adults + 2 children): $45 
  • Member family package: $35 
  • General adult admission: $15 
  • Children under 12: $10 

All proceeds benefit the Historic Odessa Foundation’s preservation and education programs.  

Historic Odessa will continue its holiday celebrations through December 31, with guided tours, seasonal exhibits, and festive décor throughout the village. The museum is open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m., and Sunday, 1–4:30 p.m. (closed Mondays). 

With its charming blend of history, holiday spirit, and community celebration, Twinklefest is set to become one of Delaware’s most enchanting new traditions. From candlelit tours to the glow of twinkling lights, experience the joy of the season in Historic Odessa, where every cobblestone and candle tells a story. 

See you in Historic Odessa this holiday season!