Gift These Experiences for the Holidays in the Brandywine Valley

Adobe Stock / Flamingo Images

Think outside the box with seasonal gifts that create unforgettable experiences in the Brandywine Valley region.

Dish it up

Whether your recipient is a seasoned chef or an amateur home cook, a cooking class can help sharpen any culinarian’s skills. At Chefs’ Haven in Hockessin, Chef Mark Eastman offers lessons for both novices and veterans, where participants can learn proper techniques for preparing fish, meat, sauces and soups. The artisan baker—who once worked as a food stylist for celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse—teaches everything from global culinary techniques to preparing plant-based meals. For those who need help with the basics, consider the Essentials classes in January. More experienced food preparers might enjoy a private class (available for six to 10 guests), in which they can craft their own unique menu. For class calendars, gift certificates and more, visit chefshavende.com.

Gifting a cooking class brings joy long after the holiday season. Adobe Stock/ Flamingo Images.

Explore the arts

Impress the art lover in your life by gifting them a membership to the Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington or the Center for the Creative Arts in Yorklyn. Museum members receive unlimited general admission, benefits for the children and grandchildren in their household, and discounts at the café and museum store all year round. Exhibitions feature local art and rotating collections, such as The Rossettis, which is on display for the first time in the U.S. For those who enjoy a more hands-on experience, the museum offers drawing, metalsmithing, painting and photography classes. CCArts also offers a wide variety of classes and workshops in art, music, dance and drama for all ages and abilities, as well as open mic nights. Visit delart.org and ccarts.org.

Smell the roses

Shorter days and wintry weather leave most longing for the lush greenery of warmer months. At Mt. Cuba Center in Hockessin, Winterthur Gardens in Wilmington or Kennett Square’s Longwood Gardens, it’s easy to remember that spring is coming. Mt. Cuba boasts more than 2 miles of scenic hiking trails filled with native trees, plants and birds. Although general admission is only permitted from April to mid-November, classes—like wreath-making and landscape design—are offered year-round. Winterthur’s Garden Tram Tour (from March to December) shares the history of Henry Francis du Pont’s design and makes a stop at the Enchanted Woods. Escape the icy chill of winter at Longwood’s Orchid House, which displays hundreds of orchids beneath its new glass roof, so visitors can enjoy the beauty of these flowering plants warmly indoors. For more information on membership packages and programs, visit mtcubacenter.org, winterthur.org and longwoodgardens.org.

Cut a rug

Dancing is a fun way to build confidence, exercise and reduce stress. Present loved ones with the opportunity to learn classic dances, like the fox trot and waltz, or Latin styles, such as the cha-cha and rumba, at the Blue Ballroom in Wilmington. Group classes and private lessons are available in this beautiful, spacious studio. Looking for a couples gift? There’s even a Dancing Date Night for your favorite duo to pick up some fancy footwork. Pro instructors work with all skill levels, from beginner to expert, and tailor choreography to fit students’ needs. For last-minute shoppers, the ballroom is open until 2 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Find gift certificates and more at blueballroom.net.

Kick back and relax

After a long and hectic holiday season, who doesn’t need a little R&R? Give the gift of luxury with a spa experience that can be enjoyed from the comfort of home. Pamper Perfect Mobile Spa transcends traditional settings and delivers services of your choice on-site. From manicures and pedicures to massages and facials, Pamper Perfect professionals arrive with all the necessities for a complete spa experience. Treat loved ones to a stress-free, customized event that arrives right at their front door. For a complete list of services, visit pamperperfectmobilespa.com.

Related: Swing by These Festive Holiday Events Around the Brandywine Valley