2017 Holidays in Odessa, DE

Holiday Tour Presenting Sponsor

Holiday Tour Presenting Sponsor: Morgan Stanley

Step back in time at the Historic Odessa's annual holiday celebration - a seasonal tradition of interpreting scenes from classic literature. This season our celebration lasts from November 14 through December 31, 2017.

Historic Odessa is open to the public in the fall and winter, Monday by reservation, Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM and Sunday 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM. During the late fall and winter, the Historic Houses of Odessa are closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and in January and February.

Holiday in Odessa 2017

Saturday, December 30, 2017
2017 Demonstration: Festive Foods

Top off your holiday tour at the Collins-Sharp House as the Historic Odessa hearth cooks prepare delicious 18th century recipes typically enjoyed during the holiday season. The crackle of logs on the fire, the sweet smells of apples and cinnamon, a mouthwatering chicken roasting over the coals are the sights sounds and taste of this holiday feast.

Thursday, December 28, 2017
Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

Step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation and explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear. You are invited. Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit and enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.

Tuesday, December 26, 2017
Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

Experience a special candlelight tour then settle down and enjoy festive treats and champagne in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700. Step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation. You are invited to explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear through our 2017 holiday exhibit.

Thursday, December 21, 2017
Holiday Candlelight Tour 2017 Hosted by Associate Curator - SOLD OUT!

Get into the Christmas spirit by attending a special evening candlelight guided tour offered by the curator of the Christmas exhibit, A Visit from St. Nicholas, at the National Historic Register, Wilson-Warner House, c. 1769.  Enjoy hearing this classic Christmas poem while learning about the inspiration and process behind the furnishings and decorations for each room vignette.

Thursday, December 21, 2017
Holiday Candlelight Tour 2017 Hosted by Associate Curator - SOLD OUT!

Get into the Christmas spirit by attending a special evening candlelight guided tour offered by the curator of the Christmas exhibit, A Visit from St. Nicholas, at the National Historic Register, Wilson-Warner House, c. 1769.  Enjoy hearing this classic Christmas poem while learning about the inspiration and process behind the furnishings and decorations for each room vignette.

Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

Historic Odessa Foundation welcomes you to step back in time through our doors to explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear. Enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700. Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit. You are invited.

Saturday, December 16, 2017
2017 Demonstration: Festive Foods

The crackle of logs on the fire, the sweet smells of apples and cinnamon, a mouthwatering chicken roasting over the coals….top off your holiday tour at the Collins-Sharp House as the Historic Odessa hearth cooks prepare delicious 18th century recipes typically enjoyed during the holiday season.

Thursday, December 14, 2017
Holiday Candlelight Tour - Dec 14 2017 SOLD OUT!

Enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700. You are invited to step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation. Explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear. To the delight of all participants,  the Historic Odessa Foundation presents a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit.

Tuesday, December 12, 2017
Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

You are invited to step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation and explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear! Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit and enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.

Monday, December 11, 2017
By Invitation Only: 2017 Members Holiday Party

The Board of Directors and Staff of the Historic Odessa Foundation invite you to attend the 13th Annual Member Holiday Party Monday, December 11th 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Cantwell’s Tavern in historic Odessa, Delaware. Reservations are limited! R.S.V.P. Jennifer Cabell Kostik (302) 378-4119

Sunday, December 10, 2017
2017 Children's Tea - SOLD OUT!

Get into the Christmas spirit by attending a special afternoon children’s tea in conjunction with the Christmas exhibit.  Join us for a delightful tea party complete with tea and festive treats and a take home holiday craft project.  Then, take a tour of the National Historic Register Wilson-Warner House that has been transformed into the classic story. 

Saturday, December 9, 2017
2017 Demonstration: Festive Foods

The crackle of logs on the fire, the sweet smells of apples and cinnamon, a mouthwatering chicken roasting over the coals….top off your holiday tour at the Collins-Sharp House as the Historic Odessa hearth cooks prepare delicious 18th century recipes typically enjoyed during the holiday season.

Thursday, December 7, 2017
Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit. You're invited to step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation. Explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear and enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.

Wednesday, December 6, 2017
By Reservation: Storybook Time (Older Children) Dec 6, 2017

Join the Historic Odessa Foundation as we read excerpts from poem.  Then, see the story come to life as we tour our holiday exhibit after decorating delicious holiday cookies. 

Wednesday, December 6, 2017
By Reservation: Storybook Time (pre-K and Kindergarten) Dec 6, 2017

Join the Historic Odessa Foundation as we read excerpts from poem.  Then, see the story come to life as we tour our holiday exhibit after decorating delicious holiday cookies. 

Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

You are invited to step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation and explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear! Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit and enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.

Saturday, December 2, 2017
HOF Participates in "Christmas in Odessa"

The first "Christmas in Odessa" took place 53 years ago as a fundraiser for the Women's Club of Odessa. The purpose was to fund college scholarships for local high school seniors. With the help and cooperation of Odessa homeowners and the Historic Odessa Foundation, the Women’s Club of Odessa has provided scholarships to over 100 students.

Tuesday, November 14, 2017 to Sunday, December 31, 2017
2017 Holiday Exhibit: A Visit from Saint Nicholas

Come visit the Historic Odessa Foundation this Christmas to celebrate our unique tradition started in 1987. This year for our 30th anniversary we will feature exhibits based on classic children’s literature. 

Past Holiday Events

Dec 10, 2018 6:00PM

By Invitation Only: 2018 Members Holiday Party

Morgan Stanley

The Board of Directors and Staff of the Historic Odessa Foundation invite you to attend the 13th Annual Member Holiday Party Monday, December 10th 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Cantwell’s Tavern in historic Odessa, Delaware. Reservations are limited! R.S.V.P. Jennifer Cabell Kostik (302) 378-4119

Oct 25, 2018 7:00PM

Evening Tour

Join us the last Thursday of every month for an evening tour of the houses at Historic Odessa.

Sep 27, 2018 7:00PM

Evening Tour

Join us the last Thursday of every month for an evening tour of the houses at Historic Odessa. At the end of the personal tour enjoy beverages and festive treats at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.  This event is perfectly suited for the entire family.

Aug 30, 2018 7:00PM

Evening Tour

Join us the last Thursday of every month for an evening tour of the houses at Historic Odessa.

At the end of the personal tour enjoy beverages and festive treats at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.  This event is perfectly suited for the entire family! 

Tours leave from the Visitor’s Center.

$15 per person* – Reservations are required by calling 302-378-4119.

*Member discounts do not apply.

Jul 26, 2018 7:00PM

Evening Tour

Join us the last Thursday of every month for an evening tour of the houses at Historic Odessa.

At the end of the personal tour enjoy beverages and festive treats at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.  This event is perfectly suited for the entire family! 

May 31, 2018 7:00PM

Evening Tour

Join us the last Thursday of every month for an evening tour of the houses at Historic Odessa.

At the end of the personal tour enjoy beverages and festive treats at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.  This event is perfectly suited for the entire family! 

Tours leave from the Visitor’s Center.

$15 per person* – Reservations are required by calling 302-378-4119.

*Member discounts do not apply.

Apr 26, 2018 7:00PM

Evening Tour

Join us the last Thursday of every month for an evening tour of the houses at Historic Odessa.

At the end of the personal tour enjoy beverages and festive treats at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.  This event is perfectly suited for the entire family!

Dec 30, 2017 10:00AM to 3:00PM

2017 Demonstration: Festive Foods

Top off your holiday tour at the Collins-Sharp House as the Historic Odessa hearth cooks prepare delicious 18th century recipes typically enjoyed during the holiday season. The crackle of logs on the fire, the sweet smells of apples and cinnamon, a mouthwatering chicken roasting over the coals are the sights sounds and taste of this holiday feast.

Dec 28, 2017 7:00PM to 8:30PM

Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

Step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation and explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear. You are invited. Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit and enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.

Dec 26, 2017 7:00PM to 8:30PM

Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

Experience a special candlelight tour then settle down and enjoy festive treats and champagne in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700. Step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation. You are invited to explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear through our 2017 holiday exhibit.

Dec 21, 2017 7:00PM to 8:30PM

Holiday Candlelight Tour 2017 Hosted by Associate Curator - SOLD OUT!

Get into the Christmas spirit by attending a special evening candlelight guided tour offered by the curator of the Christmas exhibit, A Visit from St. Nicholas, at the National Historic Register, Wilson-Warner House, c. 1769.  Enjoy hearing this classic Christmas poem while learning about the inspiration and process behind the furnishings and decorations for each room vignette.

Dec 21, 2017 5:00PM to 6:30PM

Holiday Candlelight Tour 2017 Hosted by Associate Curator - SOLD OUT!

Get into the Christmas spirit by attending a special evening candlelight guided tour offered by the curator of the Christmas exhibit, A Visit from St. Nicholas, at the National Historic Register, Wilson-Warner House, c. 1769.  Enjoy hearing this classic Christmas poem while learning about the inspiration and process behind the furnishings and decorations for each room vignette.

Dec 19, 2017 7:00PM to 8:30PM

Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

Historic Odessa Foundation welcomes you to step back in time through our doors to explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear. Enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700. Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit. You are invited.

Dec 16, 2017 10:00AM to 3:00PM

2017 Demonstration: Festive Foods

The crackle of logs on the fire, the sweet smells of apples and cinnamon, a mouthwatering chicken roasting over the coals….top off your holiday tour at the Collins-Sharp House as the Historic Odessa hearth cooks prepare delicious 18th century recipes typically enjoyed during the holiday season.

Dec 14, 2017 7:00PM to 8:30PM

Holiday Candlelight Tour - Dec 14 2017 SOLD OUT!

Enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700. You are invited to step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation. Explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear. To the delight of all participants,  the Historic Odessa Foundation presents a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit.

Dec 12, 2017 7:00PM to 8:30PM

Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

You are invited to step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation and explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear! Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit and enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.

Dec 11, 2017 6:00PM

By Invitation Only: 2017 Members Holiday Party

Morgan Stanley

The Board of Directors and Staff of the Historic Odessa Foundation invite you to attend the 13th Annual Member Holiday Party Monday, December 11th 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Cantwell’s Tavern in historic Odessa, Delaware. Reservations are limited! R.S.V.P. Jennifer Cabell Kostik (302) 378-4119

Dec 10, 2017 2:00PM to 3:00PM

2017 Children's Tea - SOLD OUT!

Get into the Christmas spirit by attending a special afternoon children’s tea in conjunction with the Christmas exhibit.  Join us for a delightful tea party complete with tea and festive treats and a take home holiday craft project.  Then, take a tour of the National Historic Register Wilson-Warner House that has been transformed into the classic story. 

Dec 9, 2017 10:00AM to 3:00PM

2017 Demonstration: Festive Foods

The crackle of logs on the fire, the sweet smells of apples and cinnamon, a mouthwatering chicken roasting over the coals….top off your holiday tour at the Collins-Sharp House as the Historic Odessa hearth cooks prepare delicious 18th century recipes typically enjoyed during the holiday season.

Dec 7, 2017 7:00PM to 8:30PM

Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit. You're invited to step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation. Explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear and enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.

Dec 6, 2017 4:30PM

By Reservation: Storybook Time (Older Children) Dec 6, 2017

Join the Historic Odessa Foundation as we read excerpts from poem.  Then, see the story come to life as we tour our holiday exhibit after decorating delicious holiday cookies. 

Dec 6, 2017 11:00AM

By Reservation: Storybook Time (pre-K and Kindergarten) Dec 6, 2017

Join the Historic Odessa Foundation as we read excerpts from poem.  Then, see the story come to life as we tour our holiday exhibit after decorating delicious holiday cookies. 

Dec 5, 2017 7:00PM to 8:30PM

Holiday Candlelight Tour - SOLD OUT!

You are invited to step back in time through the doors of the Historic Odessa Foundation and explore the Christmas traditions of yesteryear! Participants experience a special candlelight tour of our 2017 holiday exhibit and enjoy champagne and festive treats in front of a roaring fire at the Collins-Sharp House, c.1700.

Dec 2, 2017 10:00AM

HOF Participates in "Christmas in Odessa"

The first "Christmas in Odessa" took place 53 years ago as a fundraiser for the Women's Club of Odessa. The purpose was to fund college scholarships for local high school seniors. With the help and cooperation of Odessa homeowners and the Historic Odessa Foundation, the Women’s Club of Odessa has provided scholarships to over 100 students.

Nov 14, 2017 10:00AM to Dec 31, 2017 4:30PM

2017 Holiday Exhibit: A Visit from Saint Nicholas

Come visit the Historic Odessa Foundation this Christmas to celebrate our unique tradition started in 1987. This year for our 30th anniversary we will feature exhibits based on classic children’s literature. 

Sep 15, 2017 10:00AM to Nov 3, 2017 5:00PM

2018 Storybook Trees Registration Ends Fri Nov 3

To reserve a tree for the 2017 Holiday Tour season or for more information on creating a tree with your family, club, or school visit, please download and submit the registration form via fax or email. The deadline for registration forms is November 3rd.

Dec 19, 2016 10:30AM

Delaware Online Highlights HOF Nutcracker Exhibit

With 30 years of annual holiday tradition, the Historic Odessa Foundation returns with a celebration of the 200th anniversary of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s classic story: the Nutcracker and the Mouse King.

Dec 15, 2016 4:00PM

Holiday Nutcracker Exhibit Featured on Philly.com

Erin Moran of Philly.com writes an expose about the Wilson-Warner House's celebration of the 200th anniversary of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s classic story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by transforming the house into the home of Marie Stahlbaum, the young protagonist of the beloved Christmas tale.

Nov 12, 2016 1:30PM to Dec 31, 2016 11:45PM

2016 Holiday Events at Historic Odessa

The Historic Odessa Foundation will celebrate the 200th anniversary of E.T.A. Hoffmann's story, "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King," from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31 with a series of events at the foundation's museums, the Historic Houses of Odessa.

Oct 3, 2016 10:00AM to 4:30PM

2016 Storybook Trees Registration Begins

Please join us in this festive display of over 30 trees decorated by local families, schools, and organizations showcasing books and works of children’s literature. Our Storybook trees exhibit is designed to promote reading and literacy, and is appropriate for all age groups.