It’s safe to say the past several years have rejuvenated many people’s appreciation of community connection. A great way to celebrate the holidays with your city, village or neighborhood is to attend a community Christmas tree lighting ceremony. These events across the First State include cozy warm beverages, live entertainment, holiday markets and more. Bring the whole family to enjoy visits from Santa, face painting and activities for the kids at these happenings throughout Delaware.
Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
November 29, 6-7:15 p.m.
Enjoy a free evening at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand to kick off the holiday season at the Delaware beaches. Starting at 6 p.m., the Cape Henlopen Holiday Band will set the stage with holiday tunes. The annual community sing-along begins at 6:30 p.m., and the Rehoboth Beach Christmas tree will light up at 7 p.m.
Rehoboth Beach Bandstand, Rehoboth Avenue
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Town of Bridgeville Tree Lighting
December 3, 6-7 p.m.
Bridgeville’s annual tree lighting will take place at 6 p.m. Enjoy an evening of holiday cheer and Christmas caroling that will get the whole family into the holiday spirit.
101 North Main Street, Bridgeville
Rail Haus Tree Lighting + Family Night
December 5
To help kick off the season, Dover’s Rail Haus will host a special Holiday Party Tree Lighting + Family Night on Thursday, December 5. Rail Haus will also host holiday markets and special events on December 14 and December 21.
92 North West Street, Dover
Newark’s Winterfest
December 6, 6-8 p.m.
With holiday entertainment, roasted chestnuts, caroling, ice-carving demonstrations and much more, Winterfest is a great addition to your holiday itinerary. The tree lighting will take place on Academy Street amid the festivities. This year, a new addition of a holiday market will provide opportunities to support local artisans and small businesses and shop for gifts.
Academy Street, Newark
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Bethany Beach Christmas Tree Lighting
December 7, 5 p.m.
Holiday happenings on December 7 include pony rides on the beach, a party with Santa filled with fun for the kids, trolley rides and more. Head to the bandstand at 5 p.m. for a performance from the SDSA Choir and the annual tree lighting.
Boardwalk, Bethany Beach
Millville Tree Lighting at the Park
December 3, 4-6 p.m.
The town of Millville’s Yuletide Festival provides a full day of holiday fun. Activities include s’mores making, hot chocolate sipping, entertainment and a visit from Santa. The tree will make its sparkly debut at dusk to finish off the evening.
32517 Dukes Drive, Millville
Fenwick Island Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 6, 5:30 p.m.
Fenwick’s annual Christmas tree lighting will take place at 5:30 p.m. at the gazebo in Cannon Street Park. Hot chocolate and cookies will help keep you warm as you enjoy the official glow-up of Fenwick’s Christmas tree.
800 Coastal Highway, Fenwick Island
Related: Find the Perfect Christmas Tree at These Tree Farms in Delaware
