In 2017, award-winning home builder Schell Brothers envisioned a way to give back to the communities it helped create. That vision became Schellville, a magical winter wonderland designed to bring joy, wonder, and connection to coastal Delaware. The initial event was a free-to-visit street scene consisting of nine miniature decorated playhouses, crafted by Lilliput Play Homes, and an array of twinkling Christmas trees. It continued to grow in scope and offerings each year, delighting more and more visitors.
Shell Brothers has a mission to “maximize happiness” and in 2021, in support of that effort, it vastly expanded the initial display into a 5.5-acre Enchanted Winter Celebration. The growth brought on many community sponsors and contributors to create one of Delaware’s most beloved holiday traditions.
The number of themed and decorated playhouses for children to explore has more than doubled, and guests get to enjoy a true nostalgic holiday experience as magical “snow” rains down on the streets for 15 minutes each hour. In addition, visitors are delighted with over 1000 lighted Christmas trees, light tunnels, epic snowball battles, a large “ice” rink offering roller skating, train rides, a magical lighted tree maze, and a sled hill. A hospitality tent, a beer garden, and food trucks offer a variety of refreshments. Hot cocoa, a crowd favorite, had over 33,000 cups served last year! Local artisans and vendors offer their wares for holiday shopping from specially constructed wooden chalets. Live entertainment is performed from a large stage, and Santa arrives each evening with the opening of Schellville gates.
Today Schellville stands as one of the regions most recognized holiday destinations and welcomes visitors from throughout Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virgina and beyond. Recognizing that “giving feels awesome,” Schellville continues to be offered free to all visitors, allowing families of all backgrounds to experience the magic of the holidays together.
Running from mid-November through December 31, this annual holiday event welcomed more than 156,000 guests in 2025, supported by 1,311 volunteer elves. Thanks to community members, volunteers, sponsors, and the Schell Brothers Foundation, the large-scale attraction continues to evolve and grow each holiday season.
Schell Brothers prides itself in seeking to create happiness in every neighborhood it touches, and the development of Schellville is a testament to its deep generosity and devotion to community spirit.
Makes plans to enjoy the wonder of Schellville this holiday season. For more information visit: https://schellbrothers.com/schellville
(P.S.) Note that Schellville is also open for special events throughout the year: Easter Eggstravaganza, Summer Kidfest, Fall Harvest, Brew Bash and Spooktacular. Link Here.
Contact us: [email protected]
Call us: (724) 348-7071
We are honored to celebrate the holidays with so many around the world!