A Very Wilmington Holiday: Sparkle, Stroll, Stay
When the lights go up, the magic begins. Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley come alive with festive charm, glowing gardens, and timeless traditions during the holiday season. From the breathtaking illuminated fountains of A Longwood Christmas to the nostalgic sparkle of Yuletide at Winterthur and the festive fun of Holidays at Hagley, the region is brimming with holiday cheer.
Stroll the storybook streets of Historic New Castle during the beloved Spirit of Christmas, or explore beautifully decorated homes during Christmas in Odessa, where the past meets the present in seasonal splendor. Add in a little retail therapy with Delaware’s tax-free shopping—perfect for checking everyone off your list while saving big on gifts, fashion, and holiday treats.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend escape, a festive family road trip, or a new tradition close to home, Wilmington offers the sparkle of the season, the ease of shopping, and the joy of a holiday getaway—all without the holiday hassle.
Featured Holiday
Events & Attractions
Holidays at Brandywine
- Nov 15, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026
- Brandywine Museum of Art
Holidays at Hagley
- Nov 27, 2026 - Jan 1, 2027
- Hagley Museum and Library
HOLIDAY LIGHTS EXPRESS
- Dec 5, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025
- Wilmington & Western Railroad
Historic Odessa's Holiday Exhibition & Tours
- Nov 11, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025
- Historic Odessa
A Longwood Christmas
- Nov 20, 2026 - Jan 10, 2027
- Longwood Gardens
Noël at Nemours
- Nov 18, 2025 - Dec 30, 2025
- Nemours Estate
Yuletide at Winterthur
- Nov 22, 2025 - Jan 4, 2026
- Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
More Holiday Fun
In Greater Wilmington
There's something for everyone! View All Holiday Events
Discover the magic of the season in Greater Wilmington! From festive parades to twinkling light shows and timeless performances, explore all the holiday events. Don’t miss a moment—see them all!
The perfect holiday gift! Share the magic of a 2026 Brandywine Passport
The Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport is like giving 12 gifts in one. It provides a summer of fun with access to the top Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley attractions. Starting at $49.
Holiday Inspired Blog Posts
The Ultimate Holiday Road Trip Through Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley
- 5 minute read
Santa's Holiday Tour of Greater Wilmington: Your Ultimate Guide to Festive Fun
- 4 minute read
5 Spectacular Holiday Displays Coming to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley This Season
- 5 minute read
Holiday Magic in Odessa, Delaware: 37 Years of Tradition
- 2 minute read
Celebrate the Holidays in Grand Style at the HOTEL DU PONT
- 3 minute read
Find the Perfect Holiday Gift for Everyone on Your List in Greater Wilmington, Delaware
- 7 minute read
A Gem of a Holiday: A Longwood Christmas Returns This Season
- 3 minute read
Enjoy Historic New Castle’s Annual Spirit of Christmas Celebration
- 2 minute read