Christmas Market at Poplar Hall
In early December, beautiful and historic Poplar Hall in Newark, Delaware transforms into an old-world Christmas setting designed to connect important experiences from the past with a celebration of the here and now. Guests at the annual Christmas Market have a chance to explore 18th century history and architecture, meet local artisans and shop handmade gifts, watch live demonstrations, and sample delicious local food and drink–all under the sweet seasonal scent of fresh cut Fraser fir trees.
The Shelton home and farm, known on the National Registry of Historical Places as “Poplar Hall”, was built in the late 18th century by Englishman James Boulden, Sr. Evolving from a popular holiday party for their family and friends, the Shelton family introduced the Christmas Market in 2017 as a heritage event for families to experience a storybook Christmas. Hoping to attract 500 people, they ended up with over 3000, and were further honored as one of the top 50 Christmas Markets in America by Food and Wine Magazine.
The 2018 event will take place on Saturday, December 1, from 10 am to 7 pm. Holiday sights and sounds, twinkling lights and festive all-natural Christmas decorations will greet visitors as they walk the grounds and barns of a real English home built in the 1780’s. Across the property, the historic hand-hewn granary barn, stable barn, milk and smoke houses will showcase more than 35 local designers and artisans featuring handmade jewelry, ornaments, pottery, fresh flower arrangements, fresh Christmas trees, handmade wreaths, and much more. Live demonstrations include a local blacksmith, colonial woodworker, textile spinners, and fiber artists, who will be showcasing the skills needed to survive in the 18th century.
The centerpiece of all great Christmas celebrations is wonderfully prepared food and drink. The Sheltons teamed up with their friend, Wilmington chef and James Beard Nominee Bryan Sikora, to offer a mouth-watering culinary experience inspired by the European Christmas atmosphere. Sikora has developed a menu of delicious market fare, authentic to the event, that compliments the artisans and can be carried around while shopping and walking the historic property. Local beers, wines and ciders, plus a full offering of sweet treats, are also on the menu, and special guest Walter Staib, celebrity chef, Emmy-award-winning TV host and restaurateur, will be on hand with his many cookbooks to purchase and sign.
A vintage motor car and bike show and live Christmas music performances under the stars are part of the celebration, and kids can enjoy a storytelling experience from Father Christmas, with a little history about Christmas in the 18th century all spun in a fun holiday tale.
● Poplar Hall Christmas Market, Saturday, December 1, 10am-7pm, No admission fee, parking fee $5.00 3176 Denny Road, Newark, Delaware, 302.598.3087, www.poplarhall.us
