Seasonal Markets and Bazaars Fill the Weekend

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Tuesday morning teased a flurry but ended up just soggy, with nearly an inch of rain and barely a trace of freezing. That makes zero Decembers with more than an inch of snow in Wilmington since 2020, and only four snowy Decembers since 2013. The last true pre-Christmas snowfall was 2.8 inches back in December 2020. Odds for a White Christmas are slim too, with the last real one in 2009, when rain washed away the epic 17 inches from the week before. Wilmington’s snow drought is becoming tradition. If you're still holding out hope, there is a 50% chance of snow Friday, but don't get too excited.

If Newark is part of your December circuit, the city just rolled out a long list of holiday happenings covering everything from craft fairs to concerts to Santa brunches. The season kicks off Dec. 5 with Winterfest on Academy Street, complete with tree lighting, live music, roasted chestnuts and an artisans market. Families can also catch the Reindeer Run 5K that same night, or head to one of several Santa meet-ups, including snacks, brunches and even a coat drive dinner deal at Caffe Gelato.

There are concerts, wreath workshops, improv shows, flea markets, and multiple First State Ringers appearances, all laid out in this handy roundup from the Newark Post. It is a whole month of options if you want to keep things festive without leaving town.

Delaware’s 2026 State Parks passes and surf fishing permits go live next week, with entry to all 17 parks for $50 per in-state vehicle. Senior and military discounts are still in place, and while surf fishing fees stay the same for now, the off-peak permit will be phased out in 2027. Passes can be purchased online or at any park office. I’ll be grabbing mine to keep my daily runs at White Clay going strong. For less than a family dinner, it's still one of the best deals in Delaware.

Lithium ion batteries power everything from your shaver to your e bike, so the State Fire Marshal is sharing a seasonal reminder to treat them with a little extra care. These batteries pack a lot of energy in a small space, which is great until they get damaged or overheated. Nationwide, fire crews have seen a jump in battery-related fires, and Delaware wants shoppers to keep an eye on warning signs like swelling, strange smells, or that wispy smoke no one wants to see inside.

If you are gifting gadgets this year, the Fire Marshal and FSRI lay out simple rules in their battery safety guide to keep homes safe. Certified products, good chargers, proper recycling, and quick exits if you ever hear hissing. Easy habits that make a difference.

Hope on Deck has opened a permanent resource center on Albe Drive, fulfilling the dream of founder Earle VanBlarcom III, who dedicated his recovery years to helping others navigate addiction. The new space offers food, clothing, household items and hygiene essentials at no cost, all donated by the community. Families can shop with dignity, and kids even have a play area while parents gather what they need.

The center will also host life skills classes and naloxone training as Hope on Deck expands its reach. Last year, the nonprofit supported 20,000 people, and staff hope the new facility will help them reach even more.

Aunt Vonda’s Kitchen Table has a new name and a new chapter. Now called Plated Soul by Aunt Vonda’s Kitchen Table, the local soul food spot is offering full dine-in service at 2 Chesmar Plaza in Newark. The update comes in response to customer demand and includes expanded hours, table service, and the same menu highlights like crab-topped salmon, fried catfish, and turkey wings with house-made gravy.

Stop by and check them out. Doors are open Wednesday through Sunday.

Starting Jan. 1, employees in Delaware can begin filing for benefits under the new statewide paid leave program. Workers and employers have been contributing to the fund throughout 2025, and the launch gives eligible employees access to partial wage replacement during parental leave, medical leave, caregiving, or military deployment.

Most businesses with at least 10 employees must offer paid parental leave, and those with 25 or more must also provide the full set of benefits. The program covers up to 80 percent of wages, capped at $900 per week, with most situations allowing up to six weeks of paid leave in a 24 month period. Parental leave allows up to 12 weeks.

Governor Meyer just joined six other governors urging the EPA to start tracking microplastics in our drinking water. These tiny particles are already linked to serious health concerns, including cancer, yet they remain completely unregulated. A nationwide petition backed by over 8,000 messages and 175 organizations is pushing to change that. If approved, microplastics would be added to the EPA's next monitoring rule, with formal action expected by 2026. It’s a small step with big implications—especially if you care about what comes out of the tap.

A legislative committee met again this week to hear how Delaware’s first statewide reassessment in nearly 40 years is affecting businesses, landlords and small farmers. Several groups said the split tax rate in New Castle County created unexpected strain, especially for apartments, manufactured homes and restaurants operating on tight margins. Others pointed to large jumps in tax bills that came without much room to plan.

Lawmakers said quick fixes are unlikely mid-tax year, but they expect to draft options for the 2026 session, with changes potentially taking effect next July. The committee’s final hearing is Dec. 15, when school district leaders will weigh in. Read the full story from Spotlight Delaware.

Ten projects across Delaware will share $348,777 in 2026 through DNREC’s Community Environmental Project Fund. The program redirects a portion of fines from environmental violations back into the neighborhoods where those issues occurred, supporting work that improves air and water quality, creates green spaces, or helps mitigate pollution.

A recent law increased how much of those penalty dollars return to communities and gives preference to projects located within two miles of a violation site. DNREC says interest was high this year, with 48 applications submitted.

Historic New Castle Holiday Market at 5 Shaw Alley brings a festive open air shopping experience with local makers, warm drinks, and plenty of seasonal charm in the heart of town. Swing by on Friday from 4 PM to 8 PM, Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM, or Sunday from 12 PM to 4 PM to browse handcrafted gifts and enjoy the holiday atmosphere.

Holiday Open House at Rockwood Park & Museum turns the grounds into a festive two night celebration with performances, crafts, food trucks, free photos with Santa, a holiday market, and a new Winter Wonderland for kids. Visit on Friday and Saturday from 5 PM to 9 PM to enjoy twinkling lights, train rides, museum tours, and the tree lighting ceremony on Friday at 6 PM.

Winter Greenery Sale at the Delaware Center for Horticulture returns with fresh evergreens, dried botanicals, colorful branches, and handmade wreaths for all your seasonal decorating. Stop by on Friday from 5:30 PM to 8 PM or Saturday from 10 AM to 1 PM to browse natural materials, pick up ready made bundles, or gather supplies for your own creations.

Holiday Bazaar at The Acadian Wine Company. This two day marketplace brings together more than a dozen local makers offering handmade gifts, art, and seasonal goods in the winery's tasting room. Saturday and Sunday from 12 PM to 6 PM, with live music each afternoon from 2 PM to 5 PM.

Delaware Day Trivia Goes Statewide invites residents to test their First State knowledge in a fast paced virtual game with cash prizes and local gathering spots. Thursday from 7 PM to 8 PM, join from home or stop by one of the New Castle County watch sites at Autumn Beer Project or the University of Delaware STAR Campus for a fun night of Delaware pride.

Annual Holiday Craft Market during the Wilmington Art Loop at The Delaware Contemporary offers a lively evening of handmade gifts, open studios, and festive energy alongside the museum's First Friday exhibitions. Stop in on Friday from 5 PM to 9 PM to browse artisan vendors, explore the galleries, and enjoy food trucks and a cash bar while you shop.

Winterfest on the Academy Lawn, Downtown Newark. Enjoy a festive mix of holiday entertainment, chestnut roasting, caroling, a tree lighting, and live ice carving at this beloved Newark tradition. Friday from 6 to 8 PM. Free to attend.

Elkton Tree Lighting Ceremony in Downtown Elkton. Kick off the holiday season with a festive evening that includes a visit with Santa, treats for the kids, and cheerful caroling. Friday at 6 PM. Free to attend.

St. Mark's Christmas Bazaar at St. Mark's Lutheran Church features handmade crafts, floral arrangements, gift baskets, baked goods, soups, a white elephant sale, and even a Lionel train display. Stop in on Saturday from 9 AM to 3 PM to browse, enjoy a hot lunch, and get into the Christmas spirit with the whole family.

Santa at the Zoo at Brandywine Zoo invites families to snap their own photos with Santa while exploring festive activities, kids stations, and seasonal fun. Saturday from 9 AM to 11:30 AM, with two time slots available, plus a late morning performance by the Wilbur Elementary Choir.

Claymont Christmas Parade – Philadelphia Pike is an annual holiday tradition organized by the Claymont Lions Club, marching along the main stretch through town. Watch the procession on Saturday from 10 AM to 12 PM as it travels along Philadelphia Pike from Maple Lane Elementary toward Darley Green.

Annual Peoples Plaza Christmas Celebration at Peoples Plaza brings a full lineup of holiday fun, including Santa’s fire truck arrival, photos, live music, dance performances, magic shows, balloon animals, carriage rides, and kids activities throughout the day. Stop by on Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM to enjoy festive entertainment, treats, and family friendly holiday moments across the plaza.

Holiday Village Market at The Creamery is filled with artisan vendors, festive bites, warm seasonal drinks, and family activities in a setting that feels like a classic winter market. Saturday from 11 AM to 5 PM, stroll through a storybook-style backdrop and discover something new around every corner.

Bohemia River Lighted Boat Parade in Chesapeake City sends a shimmering line of decorated boats through the canal for a festive waterfront display. Saturday from 5 PM to 7 PM, grab a spot near Pell Gardens or the Chesapeake Inn to watch the illuminated procession glide by.

Comedy Corner at Theatre N brings a clean comedy lineup to the stage with sharp storytelling and plenty of crowd energy. Saturday at 8 PM, settle in for a two hour set featuring rising talent and seasoned performers in a relaxed, bring your friends atmosphere.

Third Annual Scout Holiday Market at Scout Cafe offers an open air shopping day filled with local vendors, unique gifts, and holiday photo ops for kids. Stop by on Sunday from 9 AM to 3 PM to enjoy great coffee and food while you browse and support local makers.

Our Delaware Cultural Festival at Arsht Hall brings together communities from across the state for a day of cultural performances, a holiday market, kids activities, and global food from local vendors. Stop in on Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM to explore artisan booths, enjoy live performances, and celebrate the diverse traditions that make Delaware unique.

Christina Cultural Arts Center Presents Eleone Dance Theatre's Carols in Color at Copeland Hall brings a soulful mix of music, dance, and narration to retell the Nativity story with energy and heart. Sunday at 4 PM, this celebrated production showcases powerful choreography and standout vocal performances in a moving holiday tradition.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. Just things worth knowing. I’ll always flag sponsors clearly.

43 🌡️ 22 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 5% | 💨 WNW 17 mph

31 🌡️ 27 | 🌨️ PM Snow Showers | 37% | 💨 NE 5 mph

40 🌡️ 27 | ⛅ Mostly Cloudy | 8% | 💨 W 7 mph

43 🌡️ 27 | ⛅ Partly Cloudy | 7% | 💨 NW 6 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 50ºF Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

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