2021 Odessa Country Christmas

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 Foundation's 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 winterberry, 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.

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

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