REHOBOTH BEACH – Schellville, the popular holiday village nestled next to the Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth Beach, is celebrating its seventh season with major changes that promise to enhance the festive experience for visitors.
Originally created by Schell Brothers, a local building company in lower Sussex County, Schellville first opened its doors in 2017 as a small, holiday-themed village featuring miniature homes, Christmas trees, and a handful of seasonal activities. In 2022, the attraction underwent a major expansion, increasing in size to 5.5 acres, and adding more activities and attractions to accommodate growing crowds.
This year, however, the biggest change comes in the form of free admission. In previous years, entry was restricted by a paid ticket system, with tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis or pre-ordered months in advance. The system proved challenging for some visitors, especially those unable to secure tickets in advance. But in 2024, Schell Brothers has eliminated ticketing altogether, allowing guests to simply walk in without worrying about ticket availability.
However, with the expanded capacity and open access, organizers anticipate potential crowding issues. To help mitigate this, Schellville has introduced daytime hours from 1 to 4 p.m., designated as “quiet hours” for those seeking a more relaxed, less crowded experience. These quieter hours will also cater to individuals with special needs, including a dedicated "quiet night" on December 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. for special needs children and adults.
“We want everyone to feel welcome here,” said Emily Stevens, a spokesperson for Schell Brothers. “The quieter hours are a way to provide a more comfortable experience for people who may find the evening hours overwhelming. It’s part of our commitment to making Schellville a community event for all.”
Schellville offers a wide array of activities, including ice skating, snowball fights, and even magical snowfall every hour for about 15 minutes. The village is a haven for shoppers, with over 25 restaurants and family-owned businesses, many of which are local to the Rehoboth Beach area. Among them are Grandpa Mac, a beloved mac and cheese eatery, The Coffee House, a popular coffee roastery, and Southpaw Studios, a local art company offering face painting and other creative services.
A signature attraction of the village is its collection of over 20 fully decorated miniature homes. These include whimsical models of a movie theater, diner, recording studio, and more. Initially, the miniature village featured just a handful of tiny houses, but the expansion in 2022 allowed for a much larger display, delighting both children and adults alike.
Schellville’s charm continues to draw visitors from near and far. Local resident James D. and his family, who have attended the event each year since it opened, are among the many who cherish the tradition.
“Oh man, ever since Schellville started here in Rehoboth, I’ve brought my wife and kids every year,” said James. “And every year, they outdo themselves with the decorations and activities. We love coming together as a family for great fun and lasting memories.”
Esther S., a local grandmother who has visited Schellville for the past four years, says the event brings joy not only to her but also to her grandchildren. She has also started selling her handmade knitted goods and toys at a stand within the village.
“Schellville brings me so much joy,” said Esther. “The look on my grandchildren’s faces when we tell them we’re going to Schellville is priceless. I’ve also been able to sell some of my textiles, and it’s been amazing to share my work with others.”
With its festive charm and community spirit, Schellville continues to be a holiday favorite in Rehoboth Beach, drawing visitors of all ages to celebrate the season.
For more information on hours, activities, and special events, visit Schellville’s official website, at schellbrothers.com/promotions/schellville.
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