2020 Holidays in Odessa DE

Stroll or drive through the historic area for enchanted evenings of winter lights at the Historic Odessa Foundation. 

The holidays are coming and the Historic Odessa Foundation is bringing seasonal sparkle to the 18th century hamlet of Odessa, Delaware! We invite you to stroll or drive through the historic center of town gathering inspiration for your most beautiful family celebrations to date. Our winter lights are sure to enchant even the most stubborn Scrooge. 

As dusk falls the National Historic Landmark Corbit-Sharp House, c.1774, along with the Foundations other Nationally Registered properties, will transport in a glow of white light to the seasonal festivities of yesteryear. Enjoy the crisp winter outdoors with family while social distancing and experience the Historic Houses of Odessa like you have never seen them before. This marks the first time ever that the museum houses are decorated with light. Evergreens laden with pinecones, holly, and winter berry, along with welcoming wreaths deck doors, windows, and lamp posts sending our message of hope and goodwill for a joyous, healthy, and happy Yuletide season.  

Outdoor candlelight walking tours are offered through December at 5:30 pm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings by reservation.  Tours begin at the fire-pit in front of the Stone Barn, c.1812, located behind the National Historic Register Wilson Warner House, c.1769.  This tour, due to COVID-19 pandemic, supplants the 34-year-old Christmas tradition of interior house tours that interpreted classic children’s literature.  Guests will learn about family history, architectural history, and local history on a leisurely walk around some of the most stunning and architecturally significant buildings in the State of Delaware.

“This year has been a difficult and trying time for everyone. The pandemic has affected all of us on so many levels,” said Debbie Buckson, HOF executive director. “Yet the holidays are a time to be celebrated, in good times, but perhaps most especially in bad. In an effort to bring hope, joy, and the goodwill of the season to the community and region at large all of our Odessa Brewfest and Annual Holiday Tour sponsors have agreed to come together in support of this extraordinary light display showcasing some of the most beautiful and architecturally significant colonial buildings in the State of Delaware. To them we are grateful.”

Walking tour $15 per person, includes a beverage ticket redeemable at Cantwell’s Tavern.

Reservations required by calling Jennifer Cabell Kostik 302-378-4119