A new winter festival is coming to town and it’s promising to bring all the holiday spirit – from snow machines to roller skating under twinkling lights to a beer garden and local holiday shopping.
While Schellville was once synonymous with a Christmas village of elf-sized houses featured at Winter WonderFest – a drive-thru holiday lights experience – this year, its creators have transformed it into a full-blown holiday experience behind the Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth Beach.
The first-ever Schellville festival, hosted by the homebuilding company Schell Brothers, will open on Saturday, Nov. 20.
Here’s what you need to know before you go.
How much does it cost?
Let’s start with the best news: The overall experience is free. There is no charge for admission, and families can take part in most of the activities without having to take out their wallets.
This includes the snow zone for snowball fights, a magical Christmas tree maze, visits with Santa and trips on one of the two Schellville Express trains. The roller skating rink – a new 100 by 120-foot roller rink and skate path – is also free if people bring their own skates. Otherwise, rentals are $5.
Revelation Craft Brewing Co. will be sponsoring the beer garden. People can use cash, card or contactless payments.
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Activities for kids from one to 99
The adults are not being left out of this magical experience either.
Beyond the beer garden, Schellville is featuring Snowflake Stage where The Starboard is sponsoring free live entertainment.
While enjoying the music, people can visit the hospitality tent for food and beverages, or stop by one of the additional outdoor lounges and fire pits.
For those trying to finish that holiday shopping list, they can check out Candy Cane Artisan Lane for local vendors featuring a variety of gifts and stocking stuffers.
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Reservations and times
While admission is free, people can make reservations online at https://schellbrothers.com/promotions/schellville.
Schellville is open every Thursday through Sunday 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., starting Nov. 20 and ending after Dec. 31.
Between Christmas and New Year’s Day, Schellville will be open every day of the week at the same hours.
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Emily Lytle covers Sussex County from the inland towns to the beaches. Got a story she should tell? Contact her at elytle@doverpost.com or 302-332-0370. Follow her on Twitter at @emily3lytle.
