Things to do this Winter

Winter is a glorious time to commune with nature here. In fact, you’ll have lots of opportunities to celebrate our native flora and fauna with guided and self-guided hikes including First Day Hikes on January 1 and winter Bird Walks in our state parks. You can cycle or hike our fabulous hiking and cycling trails. You can team up with fellow birdwatchers for the Winter Delmarva Dogfish BirdINNg Weekend. Hop aboard a Cape Water Tours boat to visit and learn about the seal colonies who overwinter here, take a wagon ride through Trap Pond State Park, or enjoy a lantern hike at one of several different parks. So much to do! And, of course, there’s the ultimate outdoor winter adventures – you’ll find several ocean plunges taking place to raise money for good causes from January 1 into February. Yikes! Brrrrrrr.

Southern Delaware is the ultimate holiday destination. Between our warm and welcoming holiday spirit, so many fun events, and the small-town holiday sparkle found throughout the county, a visit during the holidays is like a trip back to your childhood but with tax-free shopping! Enjoy an evening taking in holiday lights as you follow the Lewes Lights map, visit Schellville’s Winter Celebration and Christmas Village (5.5 acres of Christmas cheer, including train rides, snow zones, magical snow for 15 minutes each hour, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, many miniature houses, and an artisan alley that features many local small crafters.) Attend holiday concerts and shows, find gifts for everyone while supporting local businesses in charming, unique downtown boutiques and shops, take in the train exhibit at Seaford Museum, attend holiday markets, watch Christmas parades and tree lightings, visit a Santa House with your children, and lots more.

Delaware’s Fire & Ice Festival, hosted by the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce, is a weekend-long, multi-town winter festival located in The Quiet Resorts™. Ice sculptures, masterfully carved to match a new theme each year are on display. Food trucks, fire pits, live entertainment and a ton of family-friendly activities round out the festival which is free to attend.

There's no place more delicious than the Culinary Coast™. Our chefs create their winter menus and serve up the most fabulous temptations. First feast your eyes on our dedicated Culinary Coast™ Instagram (@CulinaryCoastDE ) and then visit and savor the flavors for yourself! Also, check out our breweries, wineries, and distilleries and sign up for a tour, or create a custom sips tour for yourself and find a few new favorite spots to warm up!