Embrace the Warmth and Wonder of the Season

Saturday, November 23–Sunday, January 5

Yuletide charm meets contemporary creativity in the historic mansion, and woodland whimsy awaits outdoors. There is so much to see and do throughout the season– delight in beautifully decorated trees and marvel at a large-scale gingerbread “house” and a magical 18-room dollhouse. Enjoy enchanting decorations and outdoor lighting inspired by the woodlands of Winterthur.

Included with admission. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Early closure on Christmas Eve. Open New Year’s Day. See hours.

Purchase tickets online or call 800.448.3883. Advance reservations strongly recommended.

Special Programs & Events

Special programs throughout the season include Wonderful Wednesdays in December, evening events that feature live jazz performances, caroling, and workshops. Visitors can also enjoy a live one-man performance of A Christmas Carol by Gerald Charles Dickens, the great-great-grandson of Charles Dickens, wine and cocktail tastings, and Brunch with Santa.
Event: “Twelve Days of Christmas” Toy Train Display
Event start date
Dec.
22
Event time 10:00 am-
5:00 pm

Audience: Adult, Child, Family, Member

December 21, 2024-January 1, 2025 The du Pont children loved Christmas and…

Make Your Visit Merrier

Winterthur sparkles with holiday cheer! Marvel at the dazzling outdoor lights and festive displays throughout the estate. Delight in a giant gingerbread replica of the Dairy Barn, and a charming three-story dollhouse filled with thousands of miniatures. Enjoy a toy train display, “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” featuring Lionel Standard Gauge trains. Make your visit a magical experience your family will remember for years to come. All activities included with admission unless otherwise noted.

Yuletide Tour

Daily, 10:00 am–4:00 pm

Classic Yuletide charm meets contemporary creativity. This unique and enchanting house display will delight with its holiday décor and decorated trees, plus it features seven contemporary artists from the Transformations exhibition inspired by the museum’s rich heritage and breathtaking gardens.

Learn more.

Wonderful Wednesdays

December 4, 11 and 18, 5:00–8:00 pm

Soak in the evening glow of the house decked in its holiday glory or toast marshmallows by the outdoor fire pits. Tap your toes to the sounds of Wilmington’s best jazz, savor a seasonal cocktail, and see our magical gingerbread and doll houses.

Learn more.

Gingerbread Display

Daily, 10:00 am–5:00 pm

This year’s magical gingerbread creation will feature Winterthur’s Dairy Barn and a few of its once-famous cows. See it in the Galleries.

Dollhouse

Daily, 10:00 am–5:00 pm

This miniature masterpiece features 18 rooms decorated for the season. See it in the Galleries.

Learn more.

Toy Train Display

December 21January 1

The du Pont children loved Christmas and the toys they received each year. A popular toy of their era was the Lionel Standard Gauge toy train. Join us to enjoy the “Twelve Days of Christmas,” a festive toy train display, on view in the Brown Horticulture Learning Center. 

Learn more.

Holiday Shopping

Daily, 10:00 am–5:00 pm | Wednesdays in December, until 8:00 pm

From seasonal décor to unique gifts and more, Yuletide splendor awaits at the Winterthur Museum Store. 

Learn more.

Holiday Card Making

Since 1900, Winterthur has had its own post office! Today, the office is located behind the Museum Store and can be used by anyone.

Make a card and leave it in the mail bin for Winterthur’s Post Mistress to send it!

Activity located in the Galleries.

More Magic Awaits

From a carefully curated playlist full of Yuletide cheer to a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of our signature Dried-Flower Tree, there’s even more to explore this season at Winterthur.

More magic awaits @WinterthurMuse! Follow along on Facebook and Instagram.