Discover Magical Holiday Excursions within an Hour Drive of Newark, Delaware

The holiday season is upon us, and there are plenty of festive excursions waiting for you in the Northern Delaware and Southern Pennsylvania region. From twinkling lights to unique holiday markets, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, some events are free, while others offer a full holiday experience at a reasonable cost. Here are seven events to get you in the holiday spirit:

  1. Yuletide at Winterthur
    Dates: November 22, 2025 – January 4. 2026
    Address: 5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, Delaware 19735
    Cost: $30
    Event Link

Marvel at the holiday wonder of Winterthur, where the estate is transformed into a sparkling holiday celebration. Stroll through dazzling outdoor light displays and enjoy festive exhibits throughout the property.  Yuletide charm meets contemporary creativity in the historic mansion, and dazzling decor awaits outdoors. There is so much to see and do throughout the season—delight in beautifully decorated trees and marvel at a large-scale gingerbread “house” and a magical 18-room dollhouse. Enjoy enchanting decorations and outdoor lighting inspired by classic literature, bringing beloved stories to life this holiday season.  (New Holiday Nights starting Friday, November 28 | Fridays & Saturdays, open until 8:00 pm. Excludes November 29 and December 26.)

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Early closure on Christmas Eve. Open New Year’s Day.

  1. A Longwood Christmas
    Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 11, 2026
    Address: 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
    Cost: Adults $45, Children (5-18) $25
    Event Link

Longwood Gardens comes alive with holiday magic like never before.  This Christmas, our Gardens are transformed into a living jewel box as radiant as the jewels and gems that inspired it. Nature and elegance intertwine as twinkling lights dance, hues of emerald green to ruby red to bold sapphire shimmer, and every path leads to a new treasure to behold.

All that glitters is here, waiting to be discovered.

  1. Christmas Village in Philadelphia
    Dates: November 22 – December 24
    Address: Love Park, 1500 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
    Cost: Free
    Event Link

Philadelphia’s iconic LOVE Park transforms into a European wonderland during the annual Christmas Village, and this year it’s getting a festive upgrade! Stroll through over 120 vendors set up in charming wooden cottages offering unique international gifts. With live music, events, and a festive atmosphere, the Christmas Village is perfect for holiday shopping or simply soaking in the season’s joy. Don’t miss the giant new centerpiece – a 30-foot German pyramid, inspired by Germany’s Ore Mountains – along with the Ferris wheel and Kids Train at the nearby City Hall extension, and the delightful German food court and carousel.

  1. Holiday Magic at Riverfront Wilmington
    Date: December 1 – December 24
    Address: 3 South Orange Street, Wilmington, DE 19801
    Cost: Free
    Event Link

Holiday magic at Riverfront Wilmington is back!   The Christina Riverwalk is transformed into a captivating walk-through holiday light display with lights draping on trees and archways, creating a whimsical atmosphere all long. Enjoy mini golf, hot chocolate, ice cream, and other sweet treats all holiday season.  Open 7 days a week, lights turn on at Dusk. Free parking is available at 601 S. Madison St.

Open every day from 10AM to 8PM.

  1. Holidays at Hagley
    Dates: November 28 – January 1
    Address: 200 Hagley Creek Road, Wilmington, DE 19807
    Cost: $10 – $20
    Event Link

This year, Hagley Museum and Library will feature holiday home and garden tours, a seventh-annual gingerbread house contest, Santa Day, Holiday Nights Tours and more. With beautiful garlands, poinsettias and lights, a trip to Hagley is filled with holiday cheer.  Open 10AM to 4PM.  Note:  Hagley closes at 2 p.m. on Christmas Eve and is closed on Christmas Day.

     6. Noel at Nemours Estate
         Dates: November 19 – December 29  (10AM  – 5PM)
         Address: 1600 Rockland Road Wilmington, DE  19803
         Cost: $12 – $25
         Event Link

This 77-room mansion includes festive displays inside and out. You can tour the property and listen to live musical performances while enjoying the seasonal decorations.  Celebrate the holidays with Noël at Nemours Estate! Tour the festive displays in the Mansion, Chauffeur’s Garage, gardens and grounds. Live music performances will also be held in the Mansion during our extended hours on Saturdays in December.

     7. Newark’s Winterfest & Holiday Artisan Market
         Date: Friday, December 5 (6PM – 8PM)
         Address: Academy Building Lawn
         Cost: Price of your food and drinks
         Event Link

Winterfest and a Holiday Artisan Market promise to be a wonderful addition to the holiday season. Holiday entertainment, caroling, tree lighting, ice carving demonstrations, and local artisans and small businesses showcasing their holiday treats will fill this wonderful evening of fun for the whole family. The combination of these community activities will celebrate our community’s rich cultural heritage and showcase the unique talents of local artisans, small businesses, and nonprofits. The rain date for this event is December 6.  Winterfest is a joint effort by the Newark Parks and Recreation Department, the University of Delaware and The Newark Partnership.  The Delaware Special Olympics will be holding their Annual Reindeer Run in conjunction with Winterfest (www.sode.org).

     8. The Sleigh Bar at Klondike Kate’s
         Dates: November 13 – January
         Address: 158 East Main Street Newark, DE 19711
         Cost: Price of your food and drinks
         Event Link

Each year, Klondike Kate’s turns into a winter wonderland with The Sleigh Bar. With festive lights, tinsel, life-sized nutcrackers and more, The Sleigh Bar is not to be missed for some good ole holiday cheer.

No matter which event(s) you choose, this holiday season is sure to bring joy and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking for festive markets, magical light displays, or food and drinks, the local area offers a variety of exciting experiences. Happy holidays!

Discover Magical Holiday Excursions within an Hour Drive of Newark, Delaware

The holiday season is upon us, and there are plenty of festive excursions waiting for you in the Northern Delaware and Southern Pennsylvania region. From twinkling lights to unique holiday markets, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, some events are free, while others offer a full holiday experience at a reasonable cost. Here are seven events to get you in the holiday spirit:

 

  1. Yuletide at Winterthur
    Dates: November 18 – January 7
    Address: 5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, Delaware 19735
    Cost: $29
    Event Link

Marvel at the holiday wonder of Winterthur, where the estate is transformed into a sparkling holiday celebration. Stroll through dazzling outdoor light displays and enjoy festive exhibits throughout the property. Don’t miss the giant gingerbread replica of Enchanted Woods, a charming three-story dollhouse filled with miniatures, and the Lionel Standard Gauge trains on display. Local artist Samara Weaver’s handcrafted ornaments can be found hanging alongside the walking paths, waiting to be discovered. Winterthur is a magical holiday destination that your family will treasure for years to come.

 

  1. A Longwood Christmas
    Dates: November 22 – January 12
    Address: 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348
    Cost: Adults $42, Children (5-18) $23
    Event Link

Longwood Gardens comes alive with holiday magic like never before. With the opening of new spaces as part of Longwood Reimagined, this year’s event promises even more incredible sights. Wander through hundreds of thousands of holiday lights, stunning horticultural displays, and imaginative outdoor landscapes. A Longwood Christmas will leave you in awe with its breathtaking beauty, making it a must-see destination this holiday season.

 

  1. Christmas Village in Philadelphia
    Dates: November 28 – December 24
    Address: Love Park, 1500 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
    Cost: Free
    Event Link

Philadelphia’s iconic LOVE Park transforms into a European wonderland during the annual Christmas Village. Stroll through over 120 vendors set up in charming wooden cottages offering unique international gifts. With live music, events, and a festive atmosphere, the Christmas Village is perfect for holiday shopping or simply soaking in the season’s joy. Don’t miss the Ferris wheel and Kids Train at the nearby City Hall extension, along with the delightful German food court and carousel.

 

  1. 2024 Christmas Market
    Date: December 6
    Address: 1601 Jessup Street, Wilmington, DE
    Cost: $5
    Event Link

Join the festive fun at Wilmington’s 2024 Christmas Market. This event brings together talented artists, craft makers, and handmade treasures from the region. With over 50 vendors, you can find the perfect holiday gift, enjoy holiday-inspired food and drinks, and immerse yourself in live demonstrations and music. This holiday market offers a night of joy, creativity, and community you won’t want to miss.

 

  1. Times Square Angel
    Dates: December 6 – December 14
    Address: 643 Creek View Road, Newark, DE 19711
    Cost: $22
    Event Link

Chapel Street Players present Times Square Angel, a heartwarming holiday play in the tradition of A Christmas Carol and It’s a Wonderful Life. The story follows nightclub headliner Irish O’Flanagan as she faces a life-or-death situation with the help of an angel-in-training. Filled with holiday fun and touching moments, this play is a perfect reminder of the importance of love, forgiveness, and second chances.

 

  1. First Annual M.O.T. Holiday Festival
    Dates: December 14 – December 15
    Address: 213 Silver Lake Road, Middletown, DE 19709
    Cost: Adults $75, Children 3-12 $45, Children under 3 FREE
    Event Link

Make lasting memories at the First Annual M.O.T. Holiday Festival in Middletown, where you can experience a magical winter wonderland. The festival offers a walk-through holiday light display, fake snow play areas, train rides, pictures with Santa, and even bumper cars. Warm up by the fire pits with outdoor Christmas movies or take part in family gingerbread decorating. This event promises holiday fun for the entire family, with something for everyone to enjoy.

 

     7. Winterfest & Holiday Artisan Market
         Dates: December 6  (6PM – 8PM)
         Address: Academy Building Lawn  Newark, DE
         Cost: FREE
         Event Link

Make lasting memories at the First Annual M.O.T. Holiday Festival in Middletown, where you can experience a magical winter wonderland. The festival offers a walk-through holiday light display, fake snow play areas, train rides, pictures with Santa, and even bumper cars. Warm up by the fire pits with outdoor Christmas movies or take part in family gingerbread decorating. This event promises holiday fun for the entire family, with something for everyone to enjoy.

No matter which event(s) you choose, this holiday season is sure to bring joy and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking for festive markets, magical light displays, or live performances, the local area offers a variety of exciting experiences. Happy holidays!

Navigating the Commercial Leasing Landscape in Northern Delaware

In the intricate world of commercial leasing, Northern Delaware (New Castle County) emerges as a vibrant hub, offering a plethora of opportunities for businesses seeking strategic locations and flexible spaces. As a key player in the local market, Lang Development has observed the nuances of this dynamic sector and are poised to offer insights into the current state of affairs.

Northern Delaware: A Thriving Hub for Commercial Leasing

Strategically positioned between major metropolitan areas, Northern Delaware boasts a thriving commercial leasing market characterized by robust demand and diverse opportunities. From office spaces and retail outlets to industrial facilities, the region offers a spectrum of leasing options tailored to the needs of businesses across various sectors. With its strategic location, accessibility, and supportive business environment, New Castle County continues to attract tenants seeking to establish a foothold in a dynamic marketplace.

A Comparative Analysis

When evaluating the commercial leasing market in Northern Delaware, it’s essential to compare it with national trends to gauge its relative performance and potential. While broader economic factors may influence leasing activity to some extent, regional dynamics such as demographic shifts, industry clusters, and local policies play a significant role in shaping the leasing landscape in Northern Delaware. Despite fluctuations in the national market, Northern Delaware has demonstrated resilience, with sustained demand driving leasing activity across key sectors.

Key Insights and Trends

  1. Adaptive Spaces for Modern Businesses: As businesses evolve and adapt to changing market dynamics, there is a growing demand for flexible and adaptive leasing spaces in New Castle County. From coworking facilities and shared offices to mixed-use developments, tenants seek spaces that can accommodate their evolving needs and foster collaboration and innovation.
  2. Emphasis on Amenities and Experiences: In an increasingly competitive market, landlords and developers are focusing on enhancing the tenant experience by offering a wide range of amenities and services. From state-of-the-art facilities and recreational spaces to curated dining and retail options, amenities play a crucial role in attracting and retaining tenants in Northern Delaware’s leasing market.
  3. Tech and Innovation Clusters: New Castle County is home to a burgeoning tech and innovation ecosystem, driving demand for specialized leasing spaces tailored to the needs of tech-driven companies. With a focus on connectivity, sustainability, and innovation, properties equipped with cutting-edge technology and infrastructure are in high demand among tenants seeking to capitalize on Northern Delaware innovation clusters.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the commercial leasing market in Northern Delaware is poised for continued growth and innovation. As businesses adapt to evolving market dynamics and embrace new ways of working, the demand for flexible leasing options and adaptive spaces is expected to increase. At Lang Development Group, we remain committed to meeting the evolving needs of tenants and stakeholders, offering a diverse portfolio of leasing options designed to support their growth and success in Northern Delaware’s dynamic marketplace.

The commercial leasing market in Northern Delaware presents a compelling narrative of resilience, growth, and opportunity. With its strategic location, diverse leasing options, and supportive business environment, the region continues to attract tenants from various sectors seeking to establish a presence in a dynamic marketplace. As Lang Development Group continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the leasing landscape, we are optimistic about the future and committed to delivering exceptional value to our tenants and partners in New Castle County’s thriving commercial leasing market.

lmk 2024