With the holiday season approaching, the charm of bustling markets and festive spirit fills the air. And what better way to celebrate Christmas in Delaware than to wander around its best Christmas markets? Whether you’re looking to shop for unique gifts, indulge in holiday treats, or enjoy a jolly time with family and friends, these markets offer something for everyone.
Winterthur’s Yuletide Market
From November through December, the Winterthur Museum and Gardens in Wilmington transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with a Yuletide Market. The market features local artisans selling handcrafted items, specialty foods, and holiday gifts. And if you’re in the mood for a bite, don’t miss the opportunity to taste seasonal treats, such as mulled wine, gingerbread, and hot cocoa.
Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem
Although not strictly in Delaware, the Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem in Pennsylvania is worth the short drive for a memorable Christmas experience. Held annually for four weekends in December, this market, inspired by the traditional German Christkindlmarkts, has over 150 vendors offering handmade crafts, traditional German foods, and holiday treats. Don’t miss the live entertainment and strolling musicians that create a festive atmosphere.
Newark’s Winterfest
The University of Delaware hosts its annual winter celebration, Winterfest, in downtown Newark in December. The event features an ice-skating rink, a holiday market, and food vendors, making it a perfect destination for a family outing or a date night. The holiday market has a range of vendors selling holiday gifts, crafts, and artisanal foods.
Rehoboth Beach Holiday Market
For those looking for a coastal holiday experience, head to Rehoboth Beach for its annual holiday market. The market has a mix of local and regional vendors selling a variety of gifts, crafts, and holiday trinkets. You can also indulge in seasonal treats and food trucks while enjoying live entertainment. The market takes place over two weekends in November, so plan accordingly.
Milton Holly Festival
The Milton Holly Festival in downtown Milton offers a unique holiday shopping experience with over 100 vendors, crafters, and artists. This annual festival brings together local crafters and businesses to showcase their handmade items and baked goods, making it an ideal place to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and holiday treats. The festival is traditionally held on the first Saturday in December.
Hockessin Art & Book Fair
The Hockessin Art & Book Fair is the perfect place to find unique and thoughtful Christmas gifts. Held in December at the Hockessin Library, the fair features vendors offering a variety of art, books, and handmade crafts, as well as live music and food vendors. Plus, proceeds from the event go to support the library, so it’s a win-win.
Wilmington’s Christmas Village
The Wilmington Riverfront transforms into a Christmas Village every December, featuring festive stalls selling handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, and holiday gifts. Visitors can enjoy hot chocolate and other treats while exploring the village and admiring the decorative lights. The village also offers live music and entertainment, as well as visits from Santa himself.
Conclusion
Christmas markets are the ideal way to get into the holiday spirit and score some unique gifts for your loved ones. From locally sourced foods to handmade crafts, Delaware’s Christmas markets have something for everyone. So, grab your family and friends, dress in your favorite holiday outfit, and head out to explore these festive markets. Merry Christmas!