All Posts

There's something special about the Fourth of July. The smell of backyard barbecues, neighborhood parades, fireworks lighting up the evening sky, and spending time with family and friends all remind us why this holiday is one of America's favorites. Here at Village D-Lights, we couldn't think of a better way to celebrate than by building a patriotic village. Like so many village projects, this one started with the best of intentions. The original plan was a simple three-build

With Independence Day just around the corner, I have to ask...is anyone creating a 4th of July vignette this year? I'm thinking about putting together something on the smaller side using my American Pride collection along with a few patriotic favorites from Snow Village. Right now, I'm planning to include the White House, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial, along with Uncle Sam's Fireworks Stand, Roosevelt Park Band Shell, and The Patriotic House. I may even add a few c

The wait is over! We're excited to announce that the Summer 2026 issue of Village D-Lights has officially been mailed and is now making its way to mailboxes across the country. This issue is packed with inspiration, collecting stories, exclusive Department 56 content, and some truly unforgettable displays. Whether you're a longtime collector or just discovering the hobby, there's something in these pages that will spark your imagination and inspire your next village project.

There’s a certain kind of excitement that only comes around every so often, the kind that builds with every packed bag, every last-minute detail, and every message from fellow collectors saying, “See you soon!” That’s exactly where we are right now. We’re officially on our way to Memphis. 🎶 Not just any trip, but several days filled with friends, fun, and everything we love about Department 56. The Department 56 Gathering at Graceland has been circled on the calendar for mon

If you’re anything like me, there’s something about this time of year that just feels full of possibility. The days are longer, the colors are brighter, and yes, believe it or not… it might just be the best time of year for Villaging. That’s right. I said it. While Christmas villages tend to steal the spotlight, summer Villaging has quietly become my favorite. There’s something so refreshing about working with lush green grass, vibrant flowers, and scenes that feel alive wit

The moment we wait for all year has finally arrived. The Q4 2025 Christmas issue of Village D-Lights has officially been released, and I could not be more excited to share it with all of you. This issue is filled with inspiration, artistry, collector insights, and of course, plenty of holiday magic from the world of Department 56. Christmas village season is here, and whether your display is already glowing beautifully or you are knee-deep in storage bins rediscovering each

The Christmas issue of Village D-Lights is on its way — and it’s one you won’t want to miss! We’re thrilled to share that our Q4 2025 Holiday Issue features a very special cover celebrating the magic of the season and the creativity of our Village community. Inside, you’ll find page after page of festive inspiration, including breathtaking displays, expert tips, and exclusive peeks at what’s coming next from Department 56 as the company celebrates its 50th anniversary in

There’s something magical about this time of year, and our most recent Fall/Halloween issue of Village D-Lights has just been released...

To say we’re excited is an understatement. This issue is a celebration of everything we love about our hobby: creativity, community, and...

It’s been one week since we officially relaunched Village D-Lights — and what an incredible week it’s been! First, I want to thank each...

Hello friends, I’m Ben—a lifelong Department 56 collector and now, proudly, the new publisher of Village D-Lights Magazine . From...