Rehoboth Tree Lighting
The Magic of Rehoboth Beach Tree Lighting: Your Holiday Season Starts Here
If you’ve spent any time around the Delaware beaches, you know that something special happens once Thanksgiving leftovers are packed away and November’s chill settles in. No, not black Friday shopping at the outlets, but when Rehoboth Beach pulls out all the stops for its beloved Tree Lighting ceremony which marks the official kickoff to the holiday season at the shore.
When the Whole Town Gathers
It happens every year on the Friday evening following Thanksgiving. As the sun dips low over the Atlantic and the boardwalk empties out, everyone heads to the Bandstand in the heart of Rehoboth Beach. Around 6:30 pm, the community sing-along kicks off, and trust me, there’s nothing quite like belting out “Jingle Bells” with a crowd of bundled-up neighbors, kids hopping around with excitement, and grandparents swaying along to the music.
Then, right around 7:00 pm, the big moment happens: the tree lights up. Simple, beautiful, and somehow it just feels like the holidays have actually arrived.
A Tree with a Story
Each year, the holiday tree has its own backstory. Usually, locals donate the tree from their own property, or from nearby farms or wooded areas. It’s one of those small-town traditions that makes Rehoboth special: neighbors stepping up to share something beautiful with the whole community. In 2025, the tree came from the state, harvested near Tharros Village in Lewes. However it gets here, it takes a team of local volunteers and city helpers to transport it, get it standing tall, and string up all those lights. There’s something nice about knowing this tree traveled just a few miles down the road to become the centerpiece of everyone’s holiday celebrations.
Tips for First-Timers (and Seasoned Pros)
Here’s the insider scoop: arrive early. The earlier the better especially if you want a good spot near the Bandstand. The crowd builds up pretty fast, and you’ll want the kids to actually see when the tree lights up. You can always grab an early dinner before hand and walk over to join the festivities.
Dress in layers. Yes, it’s cozy and festive, but it’s also the beach in late November. That coastal breeze can sneak up on you, especially once the sun sets. Scarves, hats, and warm coats are your friends. Some families even bring blankets to wrap around the kids (or themselves).
If you’ve got little ones, maybe grab some hot cocoa from a nearby shop before you head over. There’s nothing like warm hands wrapped around a cup while you’re singing carols under the stars.
Make an Evening of It
The tree lighting is just the beginning. Once the ceremony wraps up and the tree is glowing against the night sky, take a stroll through downtown. The shops are decked out for the holidays, and there’s something magical about window-shopping with twinkling lights reflecting off the storefront glass. Or head down to the boardwalk for a quiet evening walk and enjoy the sound of waves mixed with the glow of holiday lights. Its pretty unbeatable.
Come Join the Tradition
Whether you’re a year-round local or just passing through for the weekend, the Rehoboth Beach Tree Lighting is one of those events that reminds you what the holidays are all about: community, warmth, and making memories with the people you love. So bundle up, grab your family, and come see what makes this little beach town so special when the holiday season rolls around.
We’ll see you at the Bandstand.