As the holiday spirit fills the air, Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley come alive with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and the excitement of Santa sightings. This year, the Jolly Old Elf himself is making multiple stops throughout the region, ready to spread holiday cheer and make your family’s season extra special. 

Check your holiday list twice and get ready for these magical Santa adventures! 

1. The Annual Wilmington Jaycees Christmas Parade  
November 30, 2024  

Don’t miss the 60th Annual Wilmington Jaycees Christmas Parade, where Santa will make a grand appearance atop a festive float. Be sure to bring your letters for Santa—he’ll take them back to the North Pole personally!

Parade Route: Starts at 2nd & Market St., Travels North on Market St., Passes the Reviewing Stand at 10th & Market St., Ends at 11th & Market St. 

2. Christiana Mall Photos with Santa 
Now through December 24, 2024 

Santa Claus is making Christiana Mall his home away from the North Pole this season. Stop by for photos, share your holiday wish list, and create memories to last a lifetime. On December 8th, Santa is hosting a Sensory Friendly event from 9:30–10:30 a.m., offering a calm and welcoming environment for all children. And don’t forget your furry friends—Pet Photos with Santa will be available on select dates! 

While you're there, take advantage of tax-free shopping at Christiana Mall's hundreds of stores, from Nordstrom and The North Face to Kendra Scott and Apple. Stock up on gifts for loved ones and maybe a treat for yourself—it’s the season of giving, after all! 

3. Wilmington and Western Railroad: Santa Claus Express 
November 29–December 23, 2024  

All aboard the Santa Claus Express! Join Santa on a scenic train ride through the Red Clay Valley. The Wilmington and Western Railroad brings the magic of the holidays to life with festive cheer, special treats, and a chance to meet the Jolly Elf himself. 

For a sparkling alternative, book the Holiday Lights Express—a ride in vintage, heated coaches adorned with thousands of lights. Running December 6–30, this enchanting experience lets you enjoy beautifully lit homes along the route. Tickets sell out quickly, so reserve your seats early! 

4. Hagley Museum and Library: Santa and Gingerbread Delights 
December 7, 2024 

Santa will make a grand appearance at Hagley Museum and Library during the estate’s annual holiday festivities. Explore the historic du Pont estate, vote for your favorite in the Gingerbread House Competition, and marvel at the festive decorations throughout Eleutherian Mills and the Hagley barn. Santa will be greeting visitors from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with a cookie break from 1:00-1:30 p.m.—he is a cookie connoisseur, after all! 

5. Brandywine Zoo: Santa’s Winter Wonderland 
December 7-8, 2024 

Celebrate the season at the Brandywine Zoo’s Winter Wonderland, where Santa awaits to meet children of all ages. Enjoy hot cocoa, holiday crafts, and the magical atmosphere of the zoo decked out for the season. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the special moment when you meet Kris Kringle! 

6. Meet and Greet with Santa along Wilmington’s Riverfront 
November 29th, December 5th, 12th, and 19th  

Say Cheese! Meet Santa and take pictures from 5-8 p.m. at Riverwalk Mini Golf.  

Breakfast, Brunch & Santa 

Santa loves a good meal, and he’s joining holiday breakfasts and brunches throughout the season. From pancake feasts to buffets featuring all your holiday favorites, these dining events combine delicious food with festive fun. Check local restaurants for dates and reservations.

From train rides to gingerbread competitions, Santa sightings to dazzling parades, Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley offer unforgettable holiday experiences. Plan your visit, snap some photos with Santa, and share the holiday magic using #VisitWilm. 

Happy Holidays!