The holidays are for warming hearts—and, for some, straining wallets. Between party planning, preparing large family meals, and gift shopping, many families find it difficult to budget time and money to spend on holiday activities. But you don’t have to let a tight budget get you down! There are plenty of ways to enjoy the season in Delaware without breaking the bank. Here are a few free holiday events that are family-friendly and filled to the brim with Christmas cheer.
Holiday Magic at the Wilmington Riverfront
Along the Wilmington Riverfront, stroll through thousands of dazzling lights and bask in the spirit of the season. This free walk-through light display is a Wilmington staple filled with nearly two miles of Christmas lights. Just bundle up, fill your thermos with hot cocoa, and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the riverfront.
Wilmington Riverfront
Schellville
Upon first glance, this extravagant winter festival may seem like a luxury experience—but that’s not the case! Schellville is actually a free holiday event, and many of the experiences around the grounds won’t cost you a dime. Roller skate rentals are just $5, but you’re welcome to pack your own skates and skate for free. Families can also enjoy a sledding hill and snowball fight zone—both complete with synthetic snow. The little ones are sure to love “Merry Christmas Lane,” a child-sized street filled with little homes and business replicas like a radio station, pet hospital, and grocery store. Plus, take a train ride around the grounds, stroll through a tree maze filled with dazzling lights, and enjoy live music—all free of cost.
36470 Seaside Outlet Dr, Rehoboth Beach
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Festival of Lights at Delaware Park
This free, family-friendly, outdoor festival takes place every Friday and Saturday from November 29 through December 21. Starting at 4 p.m., stroll through thousands of dazzling lights and impressive displays and bask in the holiday cheer! Entry is entirely free, but there are options to purchase gifts from the vendor market, photos with Santa, and food and beverages.
777 Delaware Park Blvd, Wilmington
The Brandywine Zoo Free Winter Entry
Admission to Wilmington’s Brandywine Zoo is free throughout the winter season. An affordable attraction any time of year, the zoo is now completely free until February 28. While some animals won’t be out, you can still visit animals like the red panda, caracal, binturong, and more. Plus, on December 31, enjoy a daytime New Year’s Eve celebration for the little ones. Children under two get in free for the New Year’s Eve celebration, and tickets for non-members are just $5.
1001 N Park Dr, Wilmington
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Dashing Through Downtown Dover Parade
If you’re looking for a free holiday event in Dover, bundle up and head to Downtown Dover for the annual Christmas parade! On Saturday, December 15, enjoy food trucks, a free showing of The Grinch at The Schwartz Center, and, of course, the parade starting at 6:30 p.m.
Downtown Dover
Free Holiday Crafts at Rockwood
Stop by Rockwood for a free tour and craft experience! The park is open regular hours throughout December (noon to 4 p.m.), and the experience is completely free. Along with a tour of the mansion, the staff will be assisting with three holiday ornament crafts, which reflect the handmade decorations featured in the museum’s holiday exhibit, “The New Victorians.” Create origami stars, tissue paper flowers, and New Victorian ephemera ornaments at this free family-friendly workshop.
4651 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington
