Coastal Delaware is packed with festive energy this weekend, December 5th to 7th. 

From Friday night celebrations to Saturday traditions and Sunday holiday favorites, the region is full of parades concerts markets community dinners performances and seasonal fun for every age. 

This guide rounds up the standout events so you can plan a weekend that feels local, lively and full of holiday spirit!

Schellville

Schellville is a festive holiday destination that brings the season to life with lights, decorations, and interactive attractions for visitors of all ages. 

The village features charming displays, artisan vendors offering unique gifts, and themed areas perfect for family photos. 

Guests can enjoy seasonal treats, live music, and engaging activities, creating a full holiday experience in one location. 

Families and friends can explore whimsical mini-houses, cozy nooks, and carefully decorated pathways that add a magical touch to every corner. 

With its welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail, Schellville offers a joyful, memorable outing that captures the magic of the holidays in a single, immersive visit.

• Various dates and times
• Address: 36470 Seaside Outlet Drive, Rehoboth Beach

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Lewes Lights

Lewes Lights transforms the town into a glowing winter trail filled with character, creativity, and the unmistakable charm of the community. 

Dozens of homes participate, each adding its own personality to the experience, from whimsical inflatables and hand-crafted scenes to elegant coastal-style lighting displays that make entire streets feel like holiday postcards. 

Visitors can drive or stroll through the neighborhoods at their own pace, taking in the warmth and friendliness that define this beloved tradition. 

• Dates: December 5th-30th
• Hours: From 5-9pm
• Location: Lewes

Salted Vines’ Weekend Events

Salted Vines Vineyard & Winery turns the weekend into a three-day celebration of live music and laid-back vineyard vibes. 

The lineup spans Groovin’ Fridays with the Mikie & Dave Band, relaxed Saturday Acoustic Vibes featuring Two Moore, and Strummin’ Sundays with Kyle Offidani, each offering its own soundtrack against the backdrop of the vineyard. 

Outdoor concerts invite guests to settle in with folding chairs and blankets, enjoy the scenery, and unwind. 

A rotation of on-site food trucks complements the winery’s selection of wine, beer, canned cocktails, and nonalcoholic drinks, and guests are welcome to bring their own snacks. 

All shows go on rain or shine, creating a reliable weekend gathering place built around good music, good company, and a scenic Delaware setting.

• Dates: December 5th-7th
• Hours: Friday — Starts at 5pm; Saturday & Sunday — Starts at 1pm
• Address: 32512 Blackwater Road, Frankford

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at Possum Point Players

Possum Point Players presents a funny, heartfelt theatrical experience based on the beloved story of the unruly Herdman kids crashing a church Christmas pageant. 

The production balances humor with warmth as chaos turns into unexpected holiday magic, showing how even the most unlikely cast of characters can reveal true meaning in the season.

It’s a lively show with charm, laughter, and a message that resonates with all ages.

• Dates: December 5th & 6th (Sunday is sold out)
• Hours: Starts at 7:30pm
• Address: 441 Old Laurel Road, Georgetown
• Cost: $25-$27

Lewes Holiday Village & Market

This charming market creates a cozy holiday village atmosphere with artisan vendors, handmade goods, seasonal treats, and beautifully decorated historic surroundings. 

Visitors can browse for unique gifts, meet local makers, and enjoy the ambience of one of Lewes’s most picturesque settings. 

With crafts, food, and holiday cheer filling every corner, it’s an ideal spot to shop small and soak up the spirit of the season.

• Dates: December 5th & 6th
• Hours: Friday — From 4-7pm; Saturday — From 9am-4pm
• Address: 110 Shipcarpenter Street, Lewes

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“A Christmas Carol” at Clear Space Theatre 

Clear Space Theatre brings A Christmas Carol to life with a polished, emotionally rich production that highlights the redemption arc of Ebenezer Scrooge. 

Through immersive staging, strong performances, and a blend of humor and heart, the show captures both the darkness of Scrooge’s past and the joyous transformation that follows. 

It’s a classic retelling made vibrant through thoughtful direction and an intimate theater environment that makes the story hit even harder.

• Dates: December 5th & 7th (Saturday is sold out)
• Hours: Starts at 7pm
• Address: 20 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
• Cost: $25.50-$41.50

Patron Tequila Dinner at Papa Grande’s

Papa Grande’s hosts a beautifully curated multi-course dinner built around the bold, smooth character of Patrón tequila. 

Each dish is thoughtfully paired to highlight the spirit’s unique notes, from crisp citrus to warm, earthy agave. 

Guests can expect creative coastal-Mexican flavors, attentive presentation, and expert guidance on how each tequila complements the meal. 

This is perfect for anyone who loves exceptional food, great drinks, and an atmosphere that encourages lingering over every bite and sip.

• Date: Saturday, December 6th
• Hours: From 6-9pm
• Address: 38929 Madison Avenue, Selbyville
• Cost: $95

Lewes Old Fashion Christmas Parade

Lewes brings its timeless holiday charm to life with this beloved parade, a long-standing collaboration between the City of Lewes and the Lewes Chamber of Commerce. 

Nearly 100 entries make their way through town, creating a festive procession that feels both nostalgic and community-driven. 

The lineup features everything from decorated classic and modern vehicles to floats crafted by youth groups, local organizations, and businesses. 

Marching groups and equestrians add movement and personality, while regional fire companies showcase their holiday spirit. 

The Cape Henlopen High School marching band leads the final stretch before the Lewes Fire Company rolls in carrying Santa himself. 

Once the parade concludes, the celebration continues in Zwaanendael Park with the official tree lighting and candlelight caroling.

• Date: Saturday, December 6th
• Hours: From 5-6:30pm
• Location: Downtown Lewes

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Dewey's Santa Crush Crawl

This lively holiday bar crawl brings together festive outfits, playful energy, and the unmistakable Dewey Beach spirit. 

Participants roam between multiple bars, each offering seasonal drinks, themed specials, and plenty of chances to dance, mingle, and snap hilarious photos with fellow Santas, elves, reindeer, and every other creative costume imaginable. 

It’s a high-energy celebration wrapped in holiday chaos: Fun, social, and packed with that over-the-top cheer Dewey is famous for.

• Date: Saturday, December 6th
• Hours: From 12-9pm
• Various locations

Rehoboth Beach Santa Bar Crawl

The Rehoboth Beach Santa Bar Crawl fills the town with a sea of red suits and holiday cheer as participants dressed as Santa and Mrs. Claus make their way through local bars. 

All that while supporting two meaningful causes: the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation and the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation. 

Crawlers are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots and make a small donation to T2T through the event’s online portal. 

Each participating bar hosts an official drop box for toy collection, ensuring that the generosity stays local and impactful. 

The event kicks off with a large group photo on the boardwalk at Wilmington Avenue before Santas spread out across town, enjoying festive drinks and camaraderie. 

Past years have drawn thousands of attendees and resulted in thousands of toys donated and significant funds raised, making it one of the region’s most spirited and meaningful holiday traditions.

• Date: Saturday, December 6th
• Hours: Starts at 1pm
• Location: Meet at the Boardwalk at Wilmington Avenue for the group picture
• Cost: Toy donation and nominal donation (Check their FAQ)

Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Joy” 

The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra brings the warmth and spirit of the season to Lewes with its annual Holiday Joy concert, an evening designed to showcase both festive favorites and refined artistry. 

This year’s performance features soprano Kresley Figueroa and baritone Jonathan Patton, two rising operatic talents known for their expressive voices and captivating stage presence. 

From vibrant pieces like Festive Fanfare and Leroy Anderson’s Christmas Festival and Sleigh Ride to lush arrangements of “White Christmas,” “Let It Snow,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” the concert balances nostalgia with musical sophistication. 

Opera arias and duets add depth to the evening, and a narration of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” rounds out the program with classic storytelling charm. 

• Dates: December 6th & 7th
• Hours: Saturday — Starts at 7:30pm; Sunday — Starts at 3pm
• Address: Saturday — 1250 Kings Highway, Lewes; Sunday — 4001 Coastal Highway, Ocean City
• Cost: $60

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Sussex Ballet Academy “The Nutcracker” at Cape Henlopen High School

This production of The Nutcracker by the Sussex Ballet Academy showcases local talent in a beautifully staged interpretation of the timeless holiday ballet. 

From the magical transformation of Clara’s living room to the enchanting snow scene and colorful journey through the Land of Sweets.

The performance brings Tchaikovsky’s score to life with youthful energy and impressive technique. 

Families and ballet lovers will appreciate the artistry, costumes, and heart the students bring to this cherished seasonal classic.

• Date: December 6th & 7th
• Hours: Saturday — Starts at 1pm; Sunday — Starts at 2pm
• Address: 1250 Kings Highway, Lewes
• Cost: $26-$37

Premiere of “Deaf Santa Claus” at The Movies at Midway 

This special film premiere introduces audiences to a heartwarming story centered around Deaf culture, inclusive representation, and the universal magic of Santa Claus. 

The movie offers a perspective rarely seen in holiday films, celebrating communication, community, and the joy of seeing Santa through a different lens. 

The premiere provides a meaningful experience for families, advocates, and anyone who appreciates stories that broaden tradition in a beautiful way.

• Date: Sunday, December 7th
• Hours: Starts at 2pm
• Address: 18585 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach
• Cost: $10-$12

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Nate McCormick & Will Dailey at The Listening Booth

This intimate performance brings together singer-songwriters Nate McCormick and Will Dailey for an evening designed for true music lovers. 

The Listening Booth is known for its warm acoustics and close-up atmosphere, giving audiences the rare chance to hear raw vocals, storytelling, and stripped-down arrangements without the distractions of a large venue. 

Both artists bring their own distinct style, McCormick’s emotional depth and Dailey’s award-winning craftsmanship, blending into a set that feels personal, immersive, and incredibly engaging. 

If you love small-room concerts where every lyric and guitar line hits differently, this is that kind of night.

• Date: Sunday, December 7th
• Hours: From 6-8:30pm
• Address: 18388 Coastal Highway #11, Lewes
• Cost: $25-$45

Máximo César Castellanos at Browseabout Books

Browseabout Books welcomes author Máximo César Castellanos for an event celebrating Kingsley: First Act, a mystery that unfolds with unexpected twists and whimsical adventure. 

The story begins on Christmas Eve with what seems like a simple case, only for detective Gary to realize he has far more on his hands than anticipated. 

Dreaming of becoming the greatest detective of all time, he’s reluctantly paired with another investigator, and together they race against the clock to solve the mystery within just one hour. 

Their journey leads them through the peculiar town of Kingsley, where magical creatures, unpredictable characters, and a looming Calamity complicate every step. 

As the investigation deepens, Gary faces a defining choice between loyalty and ambition. 

Castellanos’ visit offers readers an engaging opportunity to dive into the book’s world, explore its themes, and connect with the author behind its imaginative storytelling.

• Date: Sunday, December 7th
• Hours: From 2-4pm
• Address: 133 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach

Community Unity Dinner

The annual Community Unity Dinner returns for its 31st year, continuing a cherished Rehoboth Beach tradition centered on connection, generosity, and small-town pride. 

The event gathers residents, families, and supporters to share a comforting meal while celebrating the vitality and growth of the downtown district. 

Hosted in support of Rehoboth Beach Main Street Inc., the dinner features a pasta meal generously donated by Big Fish, along with ice cream, cakes, and a variety of desserts that make the evening feel warm and celebratory. 

Santa and Mrs. Claus also make a festive appearance, delighting guests of all ages. 

• Date: Sunday, December 7th
• Hours: From 4:30-7:30pm
• Address: 229 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
• Cost: $20

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Brunch with Santa at Crooked Hammock Brewery

Crooked Hammock Brewery turns the classic Santa meet-and-greet into a full holiday experience with its festive brunch event. 

Families can enjoy photo opportunities with Santa, a guaranteed “snowfall” in the backyard, and a menu inspired by the brewery’s signature backyard-cookout style, bold flavors, grilled favorites, and fresh ingredients that feel both nostalgic and elevated. 

The brewery’s relaxed atmosphere sets the tone, complete with games, fire pits, hammocks, and plenty of space for kids to explore and play. 

Alongside brunch, adults can enjoy Crooked Hammock’s easy-drinking craft beers, served with the same friendly vibe that defines the brand. 

• Date: Sunday, December 7th
• Hours: Various
• Address: 36707 Crooked Hammock Way, Lewes

Want more weekend guides? Keep checking the blog for new event updates and the best things to do around coastal Delaware all season long!