The One Thing to Do in Delaware Before the End of the Year

The holiday season can be quite busy, but if you're up for doing something festive and fun, head to Rehoboth Beach. This festive town along the coast of Delaware is adorned with lights, creating a magical experience by the sea this time of year. Make your holiday season a merry one by experiencing all that Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, has to offer before the end of the year.

Rehoboth Beach is one of the most popular beach towns in Delaware, with tens of thousands of locals and tourists alike descending upon its beaches in the summer. When fall and winter arrive, the atmosphere becomes much quieter, with locals enjoying a more peaceful time as they stroll along the sandy beach or the boardwalk. When the holiday season arrives, Rehoboth Beach turns into a beachside winter wonderland, and I think it's the perfect place to spend an evening before the year's end.

Rehoboth Beach's holiday season kicks off with the annual tree lighting at the Rehoboth Beach Band Stand the evening after Thanksgiving. If you missed the tree lighting, don't worry—you'll be able to see the towering tree decorated with thousands of lights throughout the holidays!

A favorite stop for families along the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk at the east end of Rehoboth Avenue is Santa's House. Visiting this charming white structure with its red roof and shutters is an annual tradition for many families in Delaware. Children will be delighted to tell Santa what they want for Christmas, and parents can take photos. Best of all, it's free!

Another free holiday event in Rehoboth Beach is the Shellville Enchanted Winter Celebration, sponsored by the Schell brothers, behind the Tanger Outlets Seaside. Covering over 5 acres, this family-friendly event features train rides, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, several miniature houses all decorated for the holidays, a tree maze, a snow zone where snow falls every 15 minutes, and more. Artist and craft booths will also be set up, making them perfect for those seeking unique, locally made gift items for friends and family.

On-site parking is limited during the Shellville Enchanted Winter Celebration event; however, free parking is available at both the Park and Ride by Fresh Market and the Rehoboth Little League Fields on Holland Glade Road. Free shuttles provide transportation to and from the event. If you take a shuttle, you'll also receive a complimentary ticket for hot chocolate! For more details, please visit the Schell Brothers website.

Are you planning on spending time in Rehoboth Beach before the end of the year? With twinkling lights, festivities, and a visit to Santa's House on the boardwalk, what a charming destination to spend time during the holiday season! To learn more about everything happening in Rehoboth Beach this holiday season, visit the Delaware Wonderfest website. For more seasonal adventures, check out the most magical Christmas towns in Delaware, including New Castle, Odessa, and Lewes.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.