As autumn gives way to the holiday season, Sussex County starts filling its calendar with opportunities to shop local, discover handmade treasures, and enjoy festive community traditions. From artisan markets and holiday craft fairs to seasonal strolls and celebrations, there are plenty of ways to get into the spirit of the season.

For those hoping to find distinctive gifts while supporting local artists and small businesses, November offers a great place to start. Here are some of the holiday shopping events scheduled for early in the season, with more festive happenings to come in Part 2.

November 7–8: Holiday Craft Shows Get Underway

The Angola Beach Estates Holiday Craft Fair takes place Saturday, November 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can browse handmade items from local crafters and artisans.

That same weekend, the Rehoboth Art League’s 42nd Annual Holiday Fair Fine Craft Show returns Saturday and Sunday, November 7–8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Held across the Art League’s historic campus in Henlopen Acres, the show features artisans selling original work, including jewelry, glasswork, ceramics, mixed media, and fiber art.

Admission is $5 per adult, with children under 12 admitted free. The ticket is valid for both days, and proceeds support the Art League’s exhibition and education programs. Refreshments will also be available on campus.

November 14: More Holiday Markets to Explore

Saturday, November 14, brings several opportunities to get a head start on holiday shopping.

The Holiday Market at Five Points in Lewes runs from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The market features a juried selection of independent artists and makers, offering original art, fine crafts, and gifts.

Also on November 14, the Cape Henlopen Senior Center Holiday Craft Fair in Rehoboth Beach runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 20 craft vendors are expected, with items ranging from jewelry and holiday wreaths to designer candles, paintings, sea glass creations, shadow boxes, and baked goods.

November 21: Christmas at the Beach

The Christmas at the Beach craft fair brings approximately 100 crafters together at the Cambria Hotel on Saturday, November 21, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s another opportunity to browse a wide variety of handmade items and find something a little different for the holiday gift list.

Thanksgiving Weekend: Markets and More

Holiday shopping continues over Thanksgiving weekend.

On Friday, November 27, the Developing Artists Collaboration (DAC) hosts a Holiday Market at the West Side Creative Market from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Located at the site of DAC’s seasonal artists market, the event features a rotating lineup of artists offering their work. Because the market is in a partially sheltered outdoor space, the event is weather-dependent.

The Reindeer Stampede is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, November 27–28, at two locations: the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center and the Cambria Hotel. More than 120 vendors are expected. Admission is $5 and includes access to both venues on both days.

Participating artists have also donated artwork for an online auction, with pieces available to view in person at the DeWitt Gallery during the show.

December 5: Mistletoe Marketplace

The holiday shopping season continues into December with the Mistletoe Marketplace at Tanger Outlets Seaside on Saturday, December 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 60 crafters, artisans, and boutiques are expected, giving shoppers another chance to discover handmade goods and unique gifts.

November 28: Holiday Stroll in Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Beach’s Holiday Stroll is scheduled for Saturday, November 28, from noon to 4 p.m. Timed for Small Business Saturday, the event invites visitors and residents to enjoy the downtown area while supporting local businesses.

Planned family-friendly activities include meet-and-greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus, caroling, photo opportunities, and chances to spot festive snowmen around town.

These are just some of the holiday shopping opportunities kicking off the season in Sussex County. From handmade gifts and local art to festive downtown activities, there are plenty of ways to celebrate while supporting the people and businesses that make the community special.

Stay tuned for Part 2, featuring more holiday events and seasonal celebrations across Sussex County.

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By Mary Jo Tarallo, Resident Journalist

Mary Jo Tarallo spent much of her career in public relations with various non-profits and spent 40 years involved with the ski industry as a journalist, public relations director for a national trade association and as executive director of the Learn to Ski and Snowboard initiative. Prior to her ski industry involvement she worked for the Maryland International Center in Baltimore and United Way of Central Maryland. She won a Gold Award for TV programming for a United Way simulcast that starred Oprah Winfrey. She has been cited for her work by numerous organizations. Mary Jo grew up in Baltimore, attended the University of Maryland and Towson University, lived in Washington, DC for 21 years and has been a full time resident of Rehoboth Beach and Milton since May 2019.