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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
