Magical Christmas Markets in Delaware for 2025: Can’t-Miss Festive Events and Holiday Wonderland Spots!
Table of Contents
- 1 Find the Best Accommodations
- 2 41) Bridgeville Holiday Arts and Crafts Event
- 3 42) Polar Express Holiday Ride in Frankford
- 4 43) Abbott’s Mill Holiday Workshop
- 5 44) Ashland Nature Center Holiday Party
- 6 45) Claymont Christmas House Tour
- 7 46) Main Street Milton Holiday Market
- 8 47) Skating at the Horizon Services Riverfront Rink
- 9 48) Christmas Concert at Schwartz Center for the Arts
- 10 49) Holiday Festival at Dover Mall
- 11 50) Felton Winter Walk
Find the Best Accommodations
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41) Bridgeville Holiday Arts and Crafts Event
At the Bridgeville Holiday Arts and Crafts Event, you’ll meet local makers and browse all sorts of handcrafted gifts. People from all over Delaware come here looking for unique decorations, artwork, jewelry, and seasonal crafts. Bridgeville hosts this gathering every December, and the town’s community traditions really show.
The Bridgeville Historical Society puts this event together, highlighting regional artisans. You can chat with the artists, ask about their process, and see how they make each piece. Many shoppers hope to find something one-of-a-kind for their home or gift list.
Admission is free, and visitors of all ages show up—often with the whole family. The vibe is friendly and festive, and it’s a great way to support small businesses while joining in local traditions.
Here’s a quick rundown of the details:
Date | Address | Times | Price | Nearby Hotel | Event Website |
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December 7, 2025 | Bridgeville, DE | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Free | Hampton Inn Seaford | Bridgeville Craft Show details |
No need to reserve tickets—just drop by during open hours and explore at your own pace. The Bridgeville Holiday Arts and Crafts Event really shows how small-town markets bring people together.
42) Polar Express Holiday Ride in Frankford
Hop aboard the Polar Express holiday train ride in Frankford for an evening packed with classic Christmas fun. When you board, someone marks your ticket and the movie’s soundtrack fills the train car. The trip lasts about 90 minutes, and you get hot chocolate and cookies while you settle in.
Santa makes his way through each train car, handing out a silver sleigh bell to every passenger. Festive hosts and decorations fill the train, and the energy is contagious. Families, friends, and visitors of all ages come together for a cheerful holiday ride.
Here’s what you’ll need for planning, including places to stay and the official event link:
Dates | Location | Times | Prices | Nearby Lodging | Event Website |
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Nov 10 – Dec 24, 2025 | Frankford Train Depot | Various times daily | $20 – $40 | Nearby hotels in Frankford | Polar Express Train Ride |
You’ll make new memories and enjoy the season’s traditions all at once.
43) Abbott’s Mill Holiday Workshop
Head over to Abbott’s Mill, right by the millponds in Milford, for a special holiday event. The nature center turns into a seasonal workshop each December. Santa and Mrs. Claus greet families, and kids can give them wish lists or snap a photo. It’s a fun way for families to make memories together.
The site is decked out for the holidays, and the staff keep things relaxed. Free treats add to the festive mood. Bring your camera—you’ll want pictures of your group. Since the event runs for several weeks, you’ve got plenty of chances to visit.
Here’s what you need to know:
Dates | Address | Time | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
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Dec 1-24, 2025 | 15411 Abbott’s Pond Rd, Milford, DE 19963 | 10 AM – 4 PM | Free | Hampton Inn Milford | Abbott’s Mill Nature Center |
This is a welcoming holiday event for visitors of all ages.
44) Ashland Nature Center Holiday Party
What to Expect at the Holiday Gathering
The Ashland Nature Center Holiday Party lets you enjoy winter in a peaceful, natural spot. Holiday decorations brighten up the meadows, woodlands, and the banks of Red Clay Creek. The nature center invites you to walk the quiet outdoor trails and try your hand at simple indoor crafts.
Guided trail walks give you a look at the winter landscape and local wildlife. Art stations offer creative projects for all ages. Occasionally, the butterfly house transforms into a festive retreat with colorful displays to explore.
Warm drinks and snacks with holiday flavors are served. There’s a picnic area where you can relax, eat, and take in the view. If your group wants to stay overnight, you can book a spot at the main lodge for extra comfort.
Event Information
Dates | Location Address | Event Hours | Admission Costs | Lodging Nearby | Official Website |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
December 14-16, 2025 | 99 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Adults: $10, Kids: $5 | Hotels in Dover from Booking.com | Ashland Nature Center |
45) Claymont Christmas House Tour
Step into the Claymont Christmas House Tour and you’ll see historic homes dressed up for the holidays. Local residents and volunteers put in the work to turn these houses into festive showcases. Each home features a different theme, so you get to check out a variety of decorations and styles.
As you walk through, you’ll also find pop-up market stalls with handmade crafts, ornaments, and seasonal foods. It’s a handy place for last-minute gifts or just to try some holiday treats. Don’t forget your camera—the decorations are pretty impressive.
Families will find activities for kids, like games or visits with Santa Claus. Groups of all ages come out, and the event creates a strong sense of community. Part of your ticket helps local charities and historic sites, which adds something meaningful to your visit.
For the latest info, check out the table below:
Date | Address | Time | Tickets | Places to Stay Nearby | Website |
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Dec 14, 2025 | Main St, Claymont, DE | 10 AM – 5 PM | Adults: $10, Kids: $5 | Claymont hotels on Booking.com | Christmas Market Guide |
Locals and visitors come together here to soak in holiday traditions without any rush.
46) Main Street Milton Holiday Market
In December, Main Street in Milton transforms into a festive market. You can stroll along decorated streets, see all the holiday lights, and browse vendor booths. Shops and stalls sell seasonal items, handmade crafts, and local foods. If you want something unique, this market has plenty to offer.
Live entertainment runs throughout the evenings. Musicians and performers take the stage, and there are special activities for kids. The tree lighting ceremony is a crowd favorite—it kicks off the celebration and sets a friendly tone.
Here’s what you’ll need for planning:
Dates | Address | Times | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website Address |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec 1-24, 2025 | Main St., Milton, DE 19968 | 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Free to attend | Hotels in Milton at booking.com | Merry Main Street Milton |
Bring your family and enjoy a laid-back holiday evening in a small town.
47) Skating at the Horizon Services Riverfront Rink
Try open-air ice skating at the Horizon Services Riverfront Rink in Wilmington, Delaware. The rink sits right on the riverfront and draws families and friends every winter. The place gets lively, especially when the holidays are in full swing. All ages are welcome, so it’s great for groups or solo skaters.
You’ll find standard open skate hours on weekdays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Weekend hours can shift, so it’s smart to check the latest schedule before heading out. The rink gets busier around major holidays and school breaks.
Definitely check the schedule before you go, since hours and prices can change. For updates, visit the Riverfront Ice Skating Rink.
Date Range | Address | Skate Hours | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
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Dec 13 – Feb 28 | 308 Justison St, Wilmington, DE 19801 | Mon–Thu: 4pm–9pm; Fri–Sun: varies | Varies (see website) | Nearby lodging | Riverfront Rink |
48) Christmas Concert at Schwartz Center for the Arts
Spend a cozy holiday evening at the Schwartz Center for the Arts in Dover. Local musicians and dancers fill the stage with Christmas music you’ll probably recognize.
The Ballet Theatre of Dover brings “The Nutcracker” to life, sharing a classic story that’s great for all ages.
Inside, the venue feels comfortable and welcoming. Soft lighting and subtle decorations help set the mood.
You can easily enjoy the traditions and music of the season here in Delaware. It’s a nice option for families or a small group of friends looking for something festive to do.
A lot of people grab dinner at one of Dover’s restaurants before heading to the concert. Having a meal and a warm drink just makes the evening feel more special, especially on a chilly night.
If you’re planning to stay overnight, you’ll find plenty of hotel options near downtown on booking.com.
Date | Address | Time | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec 7, 2025 | 226 S. State St., Dover, DE | 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. | See Schwartz Center for ticket info | Search Dover hotels on booking.com | https://www.delawareonline.com/story/entertainment/2024/11/29/where-to-see-the-nutcracker-hear-christmas-concerts-in-delaware/76431362007/ |
49) Holiday Festival at Dover Mall
Every December, Dover Mall comes alive with its Holiday Festival. The place glows with bright lights, colorful decorations, and holiday music everywhere.
As you walk the halls, you’ll catch the scents of pine and cinnamon drifting through the air. That alone puts you in a holiday mood.
Local vendors set up dozens of tables with handmade gifts and seasonal snacks. Shops offer unique finds—perfect if you want something a little different for your gift list.
Kids can dive into crafts at Santa’s workshop or snap a photo with Santa. The mall has interactive zones just for them.
Live music fills the space most days. Choirs and soloists belt out familiar winter songs, adding to the festive vibe.
Families seem to love the cheerful atmosphere and the variety of things to do. It keeps the kids busy, and there’s plenty for adults, too.
The event runs daily, and you don’t have to pay for entry. Parking’s easy, and you’ll find plenty of dining options for lunch or dinner right in the mall.
Dates | Address | Time | Price | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
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Dec 1–24, 2025 | Dover Mall, 1365 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901 | 10 AM – 9 PM | Free Entry | Home2 Suites by Hilton Dover, options on booking.com | Dover Mall Holiday Festival Details |
For updates and more info, check the mall’s website.
50) Felton Winter Walk
Felton lights up for the Winter Walk, and you’ll notice the town’s windows and storefronts dressed for the season. Small shops and local vendors line the streets with handmade goods.
Food stands serve seasonal treats and hot drinks. If you’re tired of the same old big store offerings, you’ll find something fresh here.
The friendly vibe stands out as you walk. People gather to chat, shop, and enjoy the simple holiday displays.
Families come out for carriage rides and a visit with Santa. Volunteers often serve hot cocoa and give visitors a warm welcome.
If you’re traveling in for the event, you’ll find the walk feels organized and safe. It’s never too crowded, so you can take your time moving from one vendor to the next.
The relaxed pace lets you enjoy every decorated corner of downtown Felton.
Here’s what you’ll need to plan your visit:
Date | Location | Time | Entry Fee | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec 2, 2025 | Downtown Felton, DE | 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Free | Hotels near Felton | Christmas Market on Main |
Everyone’s welcome, and you don’t have to pay to attend. If you want to stay overnight, local accommodations are close to downtown.
For the latest event details and vendor lists, check the Christmas Market on Main page.
Christmas Market Closures
Due to econonic conditions and tariffs, some Christmas Markets may cancel their events due to lack of vendors. If you are aware of a closed market,or find errors on a listing or an image, please reach out on our Contact Us page so that we may update this post.