Holiday Events in Newark
By David Cardillo, Digital Collections and Preservation
Each year, the city of Newark celebrates the holiday season with a full lineup of community events that bring warmth, cheer and togetherness to residents and visitors alike. Each November and December, local organizations and volunteers host gatherings that benefit the community, support local businesses and showcase hometown talent — creating holiday magic for all ages.
One of the best ways to stay up to date on these events is through the Newark Post, the weekly newspaper that has been serving the Greater Newark area since 1910. The Post remains a leading source of local news for western New Castle County, both online at newarkpostonline.com and in its Friday print edition, distributed to 12,000 households.
One of the most popular traditions is the Annual Turkey Trot 5K and 10K, Delaware’s oldest consecutively run road race. Runners — often dressed in turkey hats and festive costumes — take off from Handloff Park on Barksdale Road, with registration beginning at 8 a.m., the 10K at 9 a.m., and the 5K at 10:30 a.m. Proceeds from the $35 registration fee benefit a scholarship fund that helps children in need participate in Newark Parks and Recreation programs. The race is held rain or shine, and more information can be found at races2run.com.
Another cherished tradition is the Thanksgiving Breakfast, originally created to serve University of Delaware students who couldn’t make it home for the holidays. While it still draws some students, particularly from the burgeoning population of international students, it has blossomed into a community-wide event that draws families year after year. Attendees are encouraged to bring canned or boxed goods to support the Food Bank of Delaware — a heartfelt reminder of the season’s spirit of giving.
As the holidays draw near, Newark shines bright with festive displays, including the shimmering tree of lights at Hillside Park. Perched on a platform in the middle of the stormwater pond, the glowing tree reflects beautifully across the water, creating a picturesque holiday scene.
The Friday, December 6, 2024 edition of the Newark Post highlights more than 25 holiday events across the city — from parades and concerts to markets and light displays. While the information above reflects 2024 festivities, updated details for 2025 can be found on the City of Newark’s Events page or by checking the Newark Post online.
Beyond serving as a guide to holiday happenings, the Newark Post plays a vital role in chronicling the life and history of Newark. To help preserve this legacy, the University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press has digitized the Newark Post, ensuring this important record of community life — from festive celebrations to everyday stories — is accessible for generations to come.