The Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival, also known as the Fire & Ice Festival, is a beloved annual event that transforms the charming coastal town of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, into a winter wonderland. This three-day celebration, held from January 31 to February 2, 2025, promises to delight visitors with its captivating blend of ice sculptures, live entertainment, and cozy winter activities.
What is the Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival?
The Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival is a unique event that celebrates the beauty and wonder of winter. Centered around the theme “A Weekend for the Books,” this year’s festival will feature stunning ice sculptures inspired by beloved literary works, inviting visitors to explore the icy creations and immerse themselves in the magic of storytelling.
What Activities Can You Expect at the Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival?
The Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival offers a diverse array of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. From mesmerizing ice sculpture tours to live carving demonstrations, the festival promises to captivate and entertain.
Ice Sculpture Tours
Explore the enchanting world of ice art as you stroll through the festival’s various ice sculpture displays. Marvel at the intricate details and creative interpretations of your favorite literary characters and scenes.
Live Ice Carving Demonstrations
Witness the incredible skill and artistry of professional ice carvers as they transform blocks of ice into breathtaking sculptures before your eyes. These live demonstrations offer a unique glimpse into the creative process.
Bonfires and Skating Rink
Cozy up around the crackling bonfires and enjoy the warmth of the flames as you sip hot cocoa or mulled wine. For a more active experience, lace up your skates and glide across the festival’s outdoor skating rink.
Chili Cookoff and Drink Tastings
Indulge in the flavors of the season with a delectable chili cookoff, where local chefs showcase their culinary prowess. Pair your chili with a selection of craft beers, wines, or hot toddies at the festival’s drink tasting stations.
Inflatables and Winter Festivities
Families can enjoy a variety of inflatable attractions, from giant snow globes to whimsical winter-themed slides. Additionally, the festival offers a host of other winter-themed activities and entertainment to delight visitors of all ages.
What is Schellville Christmas Village?
Nestled behind the Tanger Outlets Seaside in Rehoboth Beach, the Schellville Christmas Village is a must-visit destination during the Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival. This enchanting holiday-themed village offers a magical experience for the whole family.
Hours and Attractions
Schellville Christmas Village is open from 5 pm to 9 pm, with Early Bird Hours from 1 pm to 4 pm for seniors and small children. Visitors can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, indulge in delicious treats from Frosty’s Food Trucks, and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Christmas village, complete with playhouses, treehouses, and a sledding hill.
Alpenglobes and Maze of Lights
Explore the Alpenglobes, cozy igloos that offer a unique and intimate dining experience, and get lost in the captivating Maze of Lights, where twinkling displays create a mesmerizing winter wonderland.
What is Winter WonderFest?
In addition to the Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival, the area also hosts the Winter WonderFest, a dazzling light spectacle that can be experienced from the comfort of your car or on an open-air wagon ride. Enjoy the enchanting display while sipping hot cocoa and indulging in freshly baked cookies.
Other Festive Events in the Area
The Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival is just one of the many enchanting events that take place in the region during the winter season. Explore the Lewes Lights, a community-led Christmas lights tour in the nearby town of Lewes, Delaware. Visit Santa’s House on the Boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, a cherished stop for families to share their wish lists with the jolly old elf himself.
Additionally, the area hosts the Lewes Christmas Parade, Tree Lighting, and Caroling, an “Old-Fashioned Christmas in Lewes” event, as well as the Dewey Beach Baywalk Tree Lighting and the Rehoboth Beach Hometown Christmas Parade. For a unique shopping experience, don’t miss the Holiday Creative Market, an open-air celebration of local artistry and craftsmanship.
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, join the festivities at the Dewey Ball Drop, where the community gathers to welcome the new year with live music, fireworks, and a festive atmosphere.
Conclusion
The Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival is a captivating celebration that showcases the best of winter in this charming coastal town. From the mesmerizing ice sculptures and live carving demonstrations to the cozy bonfires and festive activities, this event promises to delight visitors of all ages. Whether you’re seeking a romantic winter getaway or a fun-filled family adventure, the Rehoboth Beach Winter Festival is sure to create lasting memories and ignite the spirit of the season.