Events and Festivals of Delaware
Delaware, known as the "First State," hosts an impressive array of events and festivals that celebrate its rich history and diverse cultural heritage. The Delaware State Fair, held in Harrington, is one of the state's premier summer events, featuring agricultural exhibits, thrilling rides, and live entertainment. In the fall, the Apple Scrapple Festival in Bridgeville pays homage to local agricultural products with scrapple-making demonstrations, apple-themed contests, and crafts. Wilmington's Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, named after the legendary jazz trumpeter, is a week-long celebration that attracts thousands of jazz enthusiasts every summer. Rehoboth Beach's Sea Witch Festival in October offers a blend of whimsical and nautical-themed activities, including a costume parade and a broom-tossing contest. These festivals, along with other culturally significant events like the Dover Days Festival, make Delaware a vibrant place to explore traditions, arts, and local flavors throughout the year.
Flower Show
Lewes Tulip Celebration
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Lewes
April 1-16, 2023
This beach town blossoms every spring and gets in the swing with art exhibits, "History in Bloom” walking tours, flower-arranging demonstrations, and plant sales.
Paddle Fest
Delaware Seashore State Park Paddlefest
Saturday, August 26, 2023
9:00am - 4:00pm
Delaware Seashore State Park's Paddlefest began in 2017, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the state park.
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Concert
Bethany Beach Concert Series
Thursday, August 3, 2023
The town of Bethany Beach officially kicks back and relaxes on summer evenings with regular free concerts at the Bandstand.
Bike Ride
Broad Creek Bike and Brew
Saturday, September 16, 2023
7:00am - 12:00am
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On your quiet adventure you will wind through scenic byways and along historic waterways as you explore what makes our community so unique.
Interesting facts about Events and Festivals of Delaware
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1. Delaware hosts a multitude of diverse events and festivals throughout the year, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and community spirit. The Delaware State Fair, held annually in Harrington, offers ten days of agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and carnival rides, fostering a connection between the state's agricultural roots and modern life.
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2. The Wilmington Flower Market is another beloved tradition, which has been supporting children’s charities in Delaware since 1921. This three-day event in May showcases unique floral arrangements, garden exhibits, and local arts and crafts, drawing horticulture enthusiasts from all over the region.
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3. For jazz and music lovers, the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival in Wilmington stands as one of the largest free jazz festivals on the East Coast. Named in honor of the late Wilmington trumpeter, this festival brings together acclaimed jazz musicians, fostering a celebration of this uniquely American art form.
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4. Firefly Music Festival in Dover has quickly become one of Delaware's most popular modern attractions, hosting a multitude of world-renowned bands and artists. Spanning several days, this festival combines music with immersive camping experiences and is an essential stop for contemporary music fans.
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5. The Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival, held in early spring, unites chocolate lovers with local confectioners, showcasing Delaware's culinary creativity. Chefs and chocolatiers from around the state come together to compete in various categories, providing visitors with an indulgent tasting experience.
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6. Historical and cultural festivals, such as the Return Day in Georgetown, further enrich Delaware's event landscape. Taking place two days after Election Day, this unique festival celebrates the peaceful transition of power and features a ceremonial “burying of the hatchet” between political rivals, a parade, and free ox roast, symbolizing unity within the community.
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7. The Nanticoke Indian Powwow is a deeply significant event that celebrates the heritage and traditions of the Nanticoke Indian Tribe. Held in September near Millsboro, this event is filled with tribal dancing, drumming, and crafts, providing an opportunity for attendees to learn about and appreciate the indigenous culture of Delaware.
8. The Sea Witch Festival in Rehoboth Beach has become a cherished Halloween tradition. Combining a costume parade, beach games, and various family-oriented activities, the festival offers a whimsical celebration of autumn by the sea, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
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9. The Apple Scrapple Festival in Bridgeville is another staple of Delaware's agricultural celebration, blending the state's apple and pork industries into a weekend of food, crafts, and entertainment. This unique festival features scrapple carving, cooking competitions, and a wide variety of apple-themed dishes.
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10. For lovers of literature and the arts, the Delaware Festival of Words is an essential event. Authors, poets, and storytellers gather to share their works, offer workshops, and engage in meaningful dialogue with attendees. This festival fosters a vibrant literary community within the state and beyond.
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