If your holiday bucket list includes dedicating a night to looking at dazzling light displays, you’re in good company. A 2023 survey suggests that 42% of Americans include holiday lights as an essential part of the season. Whether you prefer a self-guided driving tour, a walk-through lights display or an extravagant Christmas festival, the First State has plenty to offer.
Here are some can’t-miss holiday lights around Delaware.
Lewes Lights
The good-spirited holiday light show returns to Lewes this holiday season. Spend the night with family and friends during a driving tour of festively decorated homes and businesses. An interactive map can help you find the participating businesses and homes. Festivities kick off on December 6 and last throughout the month.
Lewes
Holiday Tours at Nemours Estate
During Noël at Nemours, admire the classic holiday décor of the Nemours Mansion, decorated with some of the duPont family’s original decorations. Take a stroll to see dazzling Christmas trees and wreaths, all with the gilded grandeur of the estate serving as a stunning backdrop.
Nemours Estate, 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington
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Festival of Lights at Delaware Park
Bring the whole family to this all-ages event at Delaware Park Casino. Every Friday and Saturday throughout the season, enjoy an outdoor festival complete with thousands of twinkling lights, holiday market vendors, food trucks, special events and more.
777 Delaware Park Boulevard, Wilmington
Schellville Enchanted Christmas Celebration
Get lost in the lights of the Schellville Enchanted Christmas Celebration’s magical tree maze, Christmas trees, festive lights and elf houses. Also experience activities like the Snow Zone, food trucks, a roller rink, holiday market and so much more. Enjoy the celebration from December 1-30, Thursdays through Sundays, behind the Tanger Outlets in Seaside.
Seaside Outlet Drive, Rehoboth Beach
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Dover Speedway’s “Gift of Lights” Display
Celebrate the holiday season with a cruise through a massive drive-through light display in Dover. The Gift of Lights Spectacular is an enchanting evening filled with dazzling light displays, festive activities and holiday cheer. The cost is $30 per car, so bring the whole family and enjoy the show!
1229 Persimmon Tree Lane, Dover
Holiday Lights Express
Ride among the holiday lights this holiday season with the Wilmington and Western Railroad. These heated, 100-year-old coaches are decorated festively with holiday lights and take you on a one-hour ride through Red Clay Valley to admire the decorated neighboring homes and yards. Check online for available dates and times. These rides tend to sell out, so book early!
2201 Newport Gap Pike, Wilmington
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Holiday Magic at the Wilmington Riverfront
During the holiday season, the Christian Riverwalk is transformed into a stunning walk-through lights display complete with twinkling lights, dazzling archways and the perfect whimsical atmosphere to celebrate the season. Plus, enjoy specials and events like meet and greets with Santa, Merry Mugs at Riverwalk Mini Golf, drone light shows on Fridays and more.
Wilmington Riverwalk, 550 Justison Street
A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens
Located just north of Delaware in Kennett Square, PA, Longwood Gardens is a longstanding tradition for many local families. Enjoy holiday lights displays, impressive horticultural exhibitions, stunning fountains and imaginative outdoor landscapes. End your day at Longwood with fine dining at 1906, a brand-new restaurant experience at Longwood with a stunning view of the main fountain garden.
1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA
