Things to Do This December in Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley

When you think of visiting Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley, the first thing that may come to mind is “What is there to do?”

WELL, WE HAVE THE ANSWER FOR YOU!      

The magic of the holiday season has officially arrived, and we can’t wait for the seasonal events to come. From several new and exciting events to the timed honored and classic traditions, there is something for everyone throughout Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley, including tons of live performances and amazing dining options. Here’s what's in store when you visit Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley this December!  

Holiday Critter Sale at Chadds Ford Historical Society –
November 30th - December 4th  

The Brandywine Museum of Art hosts its annual Holiday Critter Sale this year at the Chadds Ford Historical Society. Critters are delightful, handmade, distinctive ornaments and tabletop decorations created using natural materials. Each Critter has its own unique personality and expression—no two are exactly the same! From whimsical animals to heavenly angels and stars, Critters come in all shapes and sizes and make  the perfect gift.  

Holiday Open House at Rockwood Park & Museum – December 2nd and 3rd  

A free family event for all to enjoy! Guests will love the spectacular holiday light displays  in the park, holiday museum tours, free photos with Santa, and performances from local choirs, dance companies, and more. In addition, New Castle County is proud to offer the Santa Shop which includes students and groups making and selling crafts, jewelry, and other gift items.  

As an added bonus on December 9th, 10th, 16th, and 17th, Rockwood will be staying open late to feature its spectacular holiday decorations at night. This perfect date night starts with a walk through the garden lights and inside the museum to admire the decorated interiors and featured exhibition, Lighting the Trees: Rockwood’s Arboretum.  

Winter Wonderland Weekend – December 2nd and 3rd  

The Delaware Center of Horticulture is ready to bring festive fun! Enjoy some time out of the house with the Greenery Sale, Holiday Bazaar and Art Loop Opening on Friday with the added bonus of pictures with Santa on Saturday!  

Fezziwig’s Ball 2022 – December 9th  

Join in the fun with a version of Fezziwig's Ball brought to life at the historic Arsenal in New Castle, Delaware. Don your finest period or modern holiday attire and enjoy an authentic Victorian holiday ball with live music, dancing, full buffet, refreshments, and merriment! Fezziwig's Ball re-creates a 19th century ball and includes historic dances led by members of the Civil War Dance Society, live period music by The Susquehanna Travellers, and a full buffet dinner with beverages.   

The traditional holiday buffet includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, crab dip, salads, fruit, cranberry sauce, and sweets. Beer, wine and soft drinks are also included. 

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas – Varying dates through December 23rd  

What better way to celebrate the holidays than with the beloved classic WHITE CHRISTMAS at The Candlelight Theatre. The successful song-and-dance act of army buddies Bob Wallace and Phil Davis follows a duo of singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former army commander. Filled with laughter, romance, spectacular dance numbers, and the unforgettable songs of Irving Berlin, it’s clear to see why this is a holiday favorite for the whole family. 

Plaid Tidings: A Special Holiday Edition of Forever Plaid – Varying dates through December 18th  

Forever Plaid’s Jinx, Frankie, Smudge, and Sparky are again sent to Earth, this time to put a little harmony into a discordant world by staging a nostalgic holiday extravaganza. A spectacular and fun show for the whole family, Plaid Tidings is a beloved Off-Broadway musical that has been performed internationally since its 1990 debut. It combines favorite tunes from the ’50s and ’60s with traditional holiday songs and plenty of classic and comical references to the era and its sounds! 

Spirit of Christmas – December 10th  

The Spirit of Christmas comes alive in Historic New Castle for a full day of free concerts and refreshments, crafts and creations. There will even be private homes open for touring! 

Winter Arts Festival – December 10th  

The Delaware Art Museum is ready to help you cross the toughest of family members off your holiday shopping list. It’s a one-of-a-kind holiday shopping experience: wander the grounds and admire the beautifully adorned stalls full of handmade wares while enjoying the sounds of festive holiday carolers. During this winter wonderland, you’ll also find a vast selection of indulgent treats from local fine food and beverage purveyors. Feel free to shop during “kid-friendly” hours from noon to 2 p.m., with activities that are sure to amaze the youngest guests. Tickets include admission to the Art Museum.  

Holiday Dreams – A Spectacular Holiday Cirque – December 10th and 11th  

Holograms, projection mapping, interactive lasers, and award-winning cirque artists all come together in one of the most spectacular holiday production shows in the world! Holiday Dreams presents a jaw-dropping, modern holiday show featuring acrobats, comedy, daredevils, and a modern soundtrack. 

Holiday Dreams - A Spectacular Holiday Cirque is presented by the Grand Opera House at the Playhouse on Rodney Square as part of their 2022/2023 Broadway season.  

Sankta Lucia Celebration – December 11th  

A beloved Swedish tradition marks the beginning of the holiday season at the Old Swedes Historic Site. It includes an open-air Yuletide Market and Sankta Lucia Festival celebrated with song and ceremony in the candlelit church. Seating is limited so be sure to buy your tickets now! 

Three Chances to Experience "The Nutcracker"

2022 Odessa Country Christmas – Through December 29th  

The holidays have arrived at the Historic Odessa Foundation, and they are once again bringing seasonal sparkle to the 18th-century hamlet of Odessa, Delaware! Stroll or drive through the historic center of town, gathering inspiration for your most beautiful family celebrations to date. The winter lights are sure to enchant even the most stubborn Scrooge. 

Downtown Holiday Market – December 3rd, 10th and 17th  

Downtown Visions is partnering with DE.CO to bring a Holiday Market to Downtown Wilmington!  

Wilmington and Western Holiday Express Rides – Varying dates through December 30th  

The Wilmington and Western Railroad, recently named one of USA Today's Top 10 Christmas Train Rides “Full of Holiday Magic” is at it again with these seasonal favorites.  

Whether you are driving around town looking at the flickering beauty of light displays or taking advantage of the numerous events and activities throughout the area, we wish you nothing but the best this holiday season! We look forward to seeing you all in 2023!  

Happy Holidays and a very Happy New Year from the Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau.