Old-Fashioned Christmas In Whitehaven

By Susan Ferrier Freeland Travel Writer

Something about the holidays makes us long for simpler times. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia of days gone by or the wonder of a child seeing the Christmas tree lit up for the first time. Maybe it’s the scent of fresh pine mingling with the aroma of holiday treats. It’s hard to say but even with all the technology that exists today, the mind has a way of drifting toward a bygone era at this time of year.

If you yearn for that simplicity, there may be no better place to enjoy a vintage holiday season than in Whitehaven MD. For those seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Whitehaven offers Victorian charm and tranquility along the Wicomico River.

This tiny town, proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a Maryland Historic District, traces its roots back to the 1600s. With a population of under 170 residents, Whitehaven exudes a captivating charm in every season. But this quaint community of 25 Victorian-era homes, one church, and an old single-room schoolhouse comes to life during the holidays.

Make the Whitehaven Hotel your home base during your holiday getaway on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. This beautifully restored inn is decorated in the high style of the Victorian era and boasts original molding and hardwood floors. It’s eight elegantly appointed guest rooms each has a full bathroom. Some have fireplaces. This historic hotel features some of the hallmarks of the era; a Mansard roof and multiple gingerbread-trimmed porches that overlook the river and marshes.

But in December you will probably appreciate the inn’s working fireplaces more than its porches. On a cold winter eve, cozy up beside a crackling fire with a glass of wine or a hot toddy.

And a holiday getaway doesn’t need to bust the bank. From November through March, the Whitehaven Hotel offers three nights for the price of two. Even better, the deal is available every night of the week so you aren’t limited to a midweek stay.

Though you might be tempted to stay snuggled up beside the fireplace, you will want to bundle up and take a stroll to see this quaint riverside hamlet decked out in its holiday finery.

If you are visiting the 1st weekend in December be sure to attend the Whitehaven Heritage Association’s annual old fashioned Christmas Bazaar at the historic schoolhouse. Starting at 9 a.m. you can shop for holiday decor, gifts, and delicious baked goods. And don’t forget their famous scrapple sandwiches. The proceeds support efforts to restore the town’s historic buildings.

Join Wicomico Yacht Club on November 25th for their Holiday Parade of Boats at Green Hill Country Club. The event supports Toys for Tots. Attendees can opt for dinner but reservations must be made in advance (410-7495119, ext 103) or join the Deck Watch Party. Please bring an unwrapped toy for the dropbox.

But don’t limit yourself to Whitehaven. Nearby Salisbury, Maryland’s largest city, is a charming historic city that seamlessly blends the past with the present. Explore Salisbury’s charming downtown area trimmed for the holidays. Step back in time as you stroll the city’s historic architecture, waterfront parks, and beautiful Salisbury University. While here, browse a collection of one-off shops and art galleries to find unique handmade items perfect for gifting.

Take a drive or stroll through the Newtown Historic District, a neighborhood of Victorian homes. Admire historic homes built in the Italianate, Greek Revival, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival styles draped in garland and lights. Some of these architectural beauties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Experience the magic of Downtown Salisbury during the annual Holiday Lights celebration. Scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 2, from 4 - 6:30 p.m. you can join in the festivities including the town’s tree lighting, live music, fun activities for the entire family, vendors, and other delightful surprises.

On Sunday, Dec. 3rd, return with the family to Salisbury for the annual Salisbury Jaycees Christmas Parade. The parade starting at 1 pm features festive floats, marching bands, and holiday performances. It begins at Mt. Hermon Road & E. Main Street in Salisbury and finishes at City Park.

Historic Poplar Hill Mansion hosts two timeless events; the Annual Yuletide Open House and Tea with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Both are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

On Dec. 3rd, the halls of this stately home will be decked by the Four Seasons Garden Club. The second floor showcases Christmas trees adorned with over 1500 ornaments and other holiday baubles. Participate in the Silent Auction and purchase Gourmet Holiday Tea Boxes, cookies, and scones. Both support the Friends of Poplar Hill Mansion. The event runs from 12 to 4 p.m. and admission is FREE.

Bring the kids to Poplar Hill Mansion on Dec. 16th where they can enjoy peppermint tea, punch, and assorted sweets with Santa and Mrs. Claus. You can have the little ones’ picture taken with the jolly pair and photos will be mailed

to your home. The event is from 1 - 4 p.m. and costs $5.

Gather the family and head to the Wicomico Civic Center on Sunday, Dec. 3, from 12 - 4 p.m. The hall transforms into a Frosty Family Festival courtesy of Delmarva Christmas Lights. Enjoy live festive music throughout the day as you shop the wares of crafters and unique vendors. Kids can meet holiday characters, play in an inflatable bounce house village, and create holiday ornaments that will be treasured for years to come. Tickets are $12 per person, plus fees, and are available in advance and at the door.

Take in the sounds of the season on the campus of Salisbury University where you will find several seasonal con certs in a variety of genres.

University & Salisbury Chorales From East to West - A Holiday Celebration, take center stage on Saturday, December 2nd at 7:30 pm. Check the University website for more performances and tickets.

Ring in the New Year in Downtown Salisbury with the annual New Year’s Eve SBY Ball Drop, a free, family-friendly event beginning at 9 p.m. Enjoy live music leading up to the ball drop at midnight. Beer and wine will be for sale outdoors, accompanied by local food trucks. Free parking is available and downtown Salisbury’s restaurants will be open, offering fantastic dinner choices and live entertainment.

These are just a few of the holiday happenings that provide that old-time holiday experience. But no matter how you decide to spend your time in Whitehaven, you are sure to leave with a holiday to remember for years to come.

Enjoy a “Cool” Yule in the Town of Berlin

Known as the “Coolest Small Town in America, Berlin gets a bit chillier on November 24th as the city kicks off the holiday season with its Ice Ice Berlin event. This cool holiday event features holiday-themed carved ice sculptures. Businesses stay open late, kids can meet Santa at the Kringle Kottage, and the town lights up its Christmas Tree.

Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City,

Until Dec. 24, Ocean City transforms from a beach town to a winter wonderland as the town’s 58-acre Northside Park (200 125th Street) comes to life for the Winterfest of Lights. Ride the Winterfest Express tram to view thousands of twinkling holiday lights and animated displays. Sip hot cocoa, have your picture taken with Santa, make crafts, and visit the 50foot Christmas Tree.

Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City,

Until Dec. 24, Ocean City transforms from a beach town to a winter wonderland as the town’s 58-acre Northside Park (200 125th Street) comes to life for the Winterfest of Lights. Ride the Winterfest Express tram to view thousands of twinkling holiday lights and animated displays. Sip hot cocoa, have your picture taken with Santa, make crafts, and visit the 50foot Christmas Tree.

Mardela Springs “Home for the Holidays”

The Westside Historical Society in nearby Mardela Springs holds a daylong townwide celebration of “Home for the Holidays.” This year’s event is December 10th and features the Jingle All the Way Walk/ Run, a holiday scavenger hunt, shopping, visits with Santa, tree lighting, and other holiday merriment.