A Quick Primer on Delaware Winters

Winters in Delaware reveal the true beauty of the season. Known for its ideal location, low cost of living, low crime rates, and beautiful beaches, spending the holidays in Delaware can be an excellent experience for anyone who loves cool coastal towns, picturesque scenery, and delicious local cuisine. 

Whether your ideal day is hiking along a snow-swept trail or curling up by a crackling fire, you won't be disappointed with all that this east coast state has to offer. If you are considering moving to Delaware permanently or looking to build a new vacation home for the winter, here are a few things to know before you make your move.

Delaware Winter Facts

If you love colder temperatures, moderate snowfall, and a little bit of rain, then Delaware makes for the perfect winter getaway. When it comes to the weather, here's what you can expect until the spring: 

Temperature

If you don't mind the cold, then you're in luck. The first month of the new year usually calls for hats, scarves, and heavy coats. January is Delaware's coldest winter month, with an average of 27 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is common for temperatures to drop as low as around 20 degrees or go as high as roughly 35 degrees. 

Snowfall

Delaware can make for a comfortable wintertime living option if you dread shoveling your driveway or driving in the snow every winter. This state gets about 15 inches of snowfall every year, far below the national average of about 28 inches. It's not enough to get stuck in the house but just enough to enjoy sledding, snowball fights, and other fun snow-related activities. 

Rainfall

For those who don't mind a little rain,  Delaware is the perfect place for you. Delaware is an extremely rainy state, although most of the precipitation occurs in the summertime. Even still, don't forget to pack your umbrella-  during the winter, you can still expect rainfall to occur between snowstorms. Rainstorms in Delaware create the perfect opportunity to warm up by a cozy fire indoors. 

Wind Speeds

Delaware's winds are far less intense than some of their nearby neighbors to the north or south. The average wind speeds in Delaware range from 10 to 16 mph, which is categorized as a moderate breeze, which means that you won't have to worry about significant wind chill, even on cold days.

Winter Activities in Delaware

If Delaware's winter weather sounds appealing to you, you might wonder what there is to do during your stay. Whether you are a family looking to make new memories this holiday season, or a couple looking for an unforgettable way to spend the cold weather, there are plenty of unique winter activities to enjoy doing.

Experiencing Yuletide at the DuPont Estate makes for an unforgettable, old-fashioned Christmas. Easily the most stunning holiday display in the tri-state area, visitors can explore a lavish, historical mansion that's filled with incredible decorations and extravagant Christmas trees. Families can top off the experience by paying a visit to the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk, where Santa awaits every good little boy and girl. 

Ice skating at Wilmington's River Rink is another popular winter activity, where you can treat yourself to mouthwatering food and local beverages afterward. Families can attend the Lewes Winter Wonderfest at Cape Henlopen Park to enjoy even more ice skating, beautiful light displays, and fun family activities that are sure to make for some great photo opportunities.

Those looking for a more romantic experience are certain to enjoy experiencing a Dickens-Esque Christmas in historic New Castle, where you can get lost among many beautiful, Victorian-style holiday attractions. For an even more incredible perspective of Christmas in Delaware, you can also take a hot air balloon ride with one of the state's many hot air riding companies to take in the sights from the sky. 

Build Your Own Winter Getaway in Delaware

Wintertime in Delaware is equally as fun and beautiful as the summer season. From iconic experiences to not having to worry about shoveling snow, you don't want to miss out on the chance to spend the winter here. If you're looking to revel in winter wonder before enjoying some summertime fun, you can have your very own custom home built in Delaware. Check out our Idea Homes and Design Studios  in Greenwood or Ocean View to bring your imagination to life!