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
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)
Hand's-On Children's Activities
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
Tickets
All proceeds benefit the Historic Odessa Foundation’s education and preservation programs, serving over 5,000 Delaware students each year.
Ticket Packages
- Non-Member Family (2 adults + 2 children): $45
- Member Family (2 adults + 2 children): $35
- General Adult Admission: $15
- Children under 12: $10
