Twinklefest | Historic Odessa Foundation

Join Us for the First Annual Twinklefest - November 22nd

Kick off the holiday season in magical, old-fashioned style at the first-ever Twinklefest — a fun-filled, family-friendly celebration set in the heart of Historic Odessa. Enjoy a full day of holiday cheer, interactive exhibits, live entertainment, crafts, and festive treats for guests of all ages.

When: Saturday, November 22, 2025 | 1:00 – 5:30 PM
Where: Corbit-Sharp House Grounds, Main Street, Odessa, DE

What’s Included with Your Ticket

Over 30 Themed Christmas Trees at the Corbit-Sharp House (c.1774)

Wander through a winter wonderland of beautifully decorated trees inspired by classic children's literature — all created by local families, students, and community groups.

Santa’s Workshop & Historic Sleigh Photo Op (Wilson Barn, c.1806)

Snap a holiday photo with Santa & Mrs. Claus in front of a real 19th-century sleigh. Kids can shop for small gifts and keepsakes in Santa’s workshop.

A Jane Austen Christmas at the Wilson-Warner House (c.1769)

Step into the world of Austen’s beloved novels! Celebrate her 250th birthday with themed holiday vignettes — and don’t miss a special live performance by the Dover English Country Dancers.

Hands-On Children’s Activities

At our historic school program stations, kids can:

Write a letter to Santa using real quill pens and ink in a Quaker classroom
Make their own Christmas ornaments in the artisan workshop
Design holiday dinnerware in the 1774 colonial kitchen

Wreath making at Historic Odessa Twinklefest

Living History & Holiday Marketplace

Enjoy live campfire cooking demonstrations, explore local artisan booths in the marketplace tent, and shop for fresh holiday greens. BONUS: Sign up for a wreath-making or swag-decorating workshop taught by an expert Odessa homeowner! (Additional fee applies)

Enter the Ugly Sweater Contest

Show off your best (or worst!) holiday attire for a chance to win festive prizes.

Eat, Sip & Relax at Cantwell’s Twinklefest Cantina

Grab a bite, warm up by the fire pits, make S’mores with your little elves, and enjoy live music throughout the day.

Freedom Seekers: The Odessa Story

Visit the Muskrat Skinning Shack and hear powerful tales from Delaware’s Underground Railroad, brought to life by costumed interpreters. Then hop on a hayride along the scenic Appoquinimink Creek!

Don’t Miss the Grand Finale

At sunset, gather for the Twinklefest Lighting Countdown, when every historic building in Odessa is illuminated in a magical display of white lights — a dazzling end to an unforgettable day!

Become a Vendor for the Event: Twinklefest Vendor Application (712.62 KB)