The holiday season in Coastal Delaware brings a cheerful lineup of Santa appearances that families look forward to all year. 

From cozy breakfasts and cookie gatherings to cruises, workshops, and festive boardwalk visits, children, and adults will have many opportunities to enjoy memorable moments with Santa throughout December. 

The region offers a variety of settings that celebrate the season with charm, warmth, and community spirit! 

Below is a complete guide to where you can find Santa this year: 

Cookies & Cocoa with Santa

This warm and inviting experience takes place at the Rehoboth Beach Village Improvement Association. 

Families gather for a relaxed story time with Santa that feels personal and welcoming. 

Guests enjoy homemade cookies, cocoa and a quiet environment that is especially enjoyable for young children. 

The Friday event is tailored to little ones ages 0 to 3, and the Saturday is geared toward children ages 4 and up.

• Dates: Friday & Saturday, December 5th-6th
• Hours: Starts at 10:30am
• Location: 415 N Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach
• Cost: Free, but registration is needed
• Note: All seats are taken, but there is a waiting list available

Santa's House on the Boardwalk

Santa’s House is one of the most iconic holiday traditions in Rehoboth Beach and attracts families from across the region. 

Children can share their wish lists in a welcoming setting near the ocean where seasonal decorations add extra warmth. 

Families are encouraged to bring their own cameras to capture the moment. 

The boardwalk location creates a classic coastal backdrop that makes each visit feel special. 

• Date: December 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd 
• Hours: From 1-3pm
• Location: Rehoboth Avenue on the Boardwalk

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Pancakes with Santa

This festive experience invites families to enjoy a build-your-own pancake bar packed with fun toppings while exploring the park and its walk-through animal areas. 

Guests can meet Santa for a photo and join Mrs. Claus for a hands-on holiday craft, creating a warm and cheerful atmosphere for children of all ages. 

The event also features magical snow spots, hidden candy canes, and opportunities to mail letters to the North Pole. 

Visitors will find additional holiday treats, handmade items, and seasonal gifts from local vendors, making the experience feel even more special.

• Dates: 12/6 & 12/7; 12/13 & 12/14
• Hours: From 10am-12pm
• Location: 34215 Peppers Corner Road, Frankford
• Cost: $35

Cape Water Tours’ Canal Cruise with Santa

This scenic cruise departs from the Lewes waterfront and creates a magical holiday moment on the water. 

Families travel along the Lewes Rehoboth Canal while listening to Christmas music and enjoying sweet seasonal treats. 

Santa visits guests on board and takes part in the experience as the boat moves through calm and picturesque views. 

Children will enjoy meeting Santa in such a unique setting, while the cruise offers a relaxing and memorable outing for all ages.

• Date: Saturdays, December 6th, 13th & 20th
• Hours: From 12-1pm
• Location: 217 Anglers Road, Lewes
• Cost: $18-$25

Dagsboro Christmas Parade

The Dagsboro Christmas Parade is a festive celebration that brings the community together each year. 

Participants line up near the back entrance of Indian River High School and follow a route through Main Street, turning onto Clayton Street and ending at the new Dagsboro Fire Hall. 

Community members of all ages enjoy the parade as it moves through town, creating a lively holiday atmosphere. 

The event offers a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season and share in the town’s festive spirit.

• Date: Tuesday, December 9th
• Hours: Starts at 7pm
• Location: Main Street near the back entrance of Indian River High School

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Santa Breakfast Buffet at the Cottage Cafe

This cheerful holiday brunch invites families to enjoy a generous breakfast buffet while spending time with Santa in a relaxed and welcoming setting. 

Guests can savor a wide selection of classic morning dishes, made-from-scratch pastries, and fresh omelets prepared to order, creating a warm and comforting start to the day. 

The atmosphere is festive and family friendly, giving children the chance to meet Santa and take photos during the experience. 

With a menu designed to please every age and appetite, it offers a cozy way to celebrate the season together. 

• Date: Saturday, December 13th
• Hours: From 9am-1pm
• Location: 33034 Coastal Highway, Bethany Beach
• Cost: $26 (Adults); $14 (Kids)

Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus

Bethany Beach Books hosts a free event on two dates, December 13th and December 20th, where families can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. 

Children have the chance to take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and tell them what they hope to receive for Christmas.

The event provides a welcoming and festive environment for families to enjoy together and create special holiday memories. 

• Dates: December 13th & 20th
• Hours: From 10am-12pm
• Location: 99 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach

Millville Fire Company’s Santa Runs

The Millville Fire Company’s Santa Runs bring festive cheer directly to neighborhoods across Millville over multiple evenings. 

Santa will travel a variety of routes for 3 days, covering local communities from Hidden Acres and Dogwood Estates to Bethany Breeze and Clearwater Oceanside Parkway. 

Each route is designed to reach families throughout the area, creating a memorable and interactive holiday experience for children and adults. 

The runs allow residents to see Santa in person while enjoying the spirit of the season from their own streets. 

• Dates: December 15th, 17th & 18th 
• Hours: Starts at 5pm
• Location: 35554 Atlantic Avenue, Millville

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Schellville’s Breakfast with Santa

This festive morning at Schellville creates a warm and cheerful atmosphere for families looking to enjoy a holiday experience with fewer crowds. 

Guests can share a joyful visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus while enjoying a buffet breakfast filled with classic morning favorites. 

The event also supports a local charity that focuses on helping the homeless, adding a meaningful touch to the celebration. 

Visitors may find some artisan vendors and food stands open, offering extra treats and holiday gifts for purchase. 

It is a relaxed and friendly way to enjoy the spirit of the season inside one of the area’s most beloved winter attractions.

• Date: Sunday, December 21st
• Hours: From 9-11am
• Location: 36470 Seaside Outlet Drive, Rehoboth Beach
• Cost: $30
• Note: Tickets are sold out, but there is a waiting list available

Looking for more local events and seasonal updates in Coastal Delaware? Keep checking our blog, and join the conversation by sharing your favorite Santa visit of the year!