Festivals for Spring/Summer 2024

Cruisin’ Ocean City
MAY 16-19, OCEAN CITY, MD
Cruise on down to Ocean City Maryland for the 33rd Annual Cruisin’ Ocean City. This event will feature over 3,000 hot rods, customs, classics and trucks along with entertainment, boardwalk parades, special guests, featured cars, live music, celebrities, a Pedal Car Show, a Neon Light Car Show,and lots more.
COST: $15/Day for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, $10 for Sunday, $40 for four-day pass. Kids under 14 are free with a paid adult. $65 for car entrants.
specialeventpro.com/cruisin-ocean-city
Berlin Spring Cruisers Classic Car Show
MAY 18, BERLIN, MD
Every year, the sounds of roaring classics can be heard as they cruise into downtown Berlin. With music in the streets, boutiques, antiques, a wine bar, a brewery, galleries and vintage stores to browse and lots of delicious artisan and locally crafted food at nine amazing restaurants, this is the place to stroll around while enjoying hundreds of 50s, 60s and 70s classic cars of all types. The event takes place from 10am. to 2pm in downtown Berlin.
COST: $10 per car registration fee
https://berlinmainstreet.com
Rehoboth Arts Festival
MAY 18, REHOBOTH BEACH, DE
The Rehoboth Art League and the City of Rehoboth Beach have partnered again to present the City’s arts festival from 10am to 5pm. It will be held rain or shine in picturesque Grove Park where artists will showcase and sell their work.
COST: $5 for adults
rehobothartleague.org
Lewes Maritime Day Festival and Lightship Overfalls Opening Day
MAY 18, LEWES DE
Celebrate Lewes’ maritime heritage and National Maritime Day. At Canalfront park in Lewes from 10am to 2pm visitors can enjoy tours, vendors, boat rides, as well as demonstrations.
COST: Free
overfalls.org
Bay Day
MAY 19, OCEAN PINES, BERLIN, MD
A family-friendly event at White Horse Park from 10 am to 2 pm offers environmental exhibits, live animals, hands-on activities, boat rides, live music, and food vendors, promising a day filled with fun and learning for all ages.
COST: Free
mdcoastalbays.org
Bethany Beach Poseidon Festival
MAY 24-26, BETHANY BEACH, DE
Festivities in downtown Bethany Beach include a luau show, marine science camp, meet-and-greet with town lifeguards and emergency personnel, pirate shows, live bands, mermaids, plus a performance by the U.S. Navy Country Current – the Navy’s premier country-bluegrass ensemble.
COST: Free
townofbethanybeach.com
Annual Horseshoe Crab & Shorebird Festival
MAY 25, MILTON, DE
Festivities will take place from 9am to 3pm at the Milton Memorial Park.
COST: Donation suggested
historicmilton.com
Henlopen Spring Fest
MAY 25, MILTON, DE
From 9am to 6pm, the 2nd annual Henlopen Spring Fest brings the community together at Hudson Fields to support local charitable and volunteer organizations. The event includes a car and truck show, a cornhole tournament, live bands, kids’ activities, food, and police and community outreach.
COST: $10 per person; Children under 12 free
henlopenspringfest.com
Lewes in Bloom Garden and Flea Market Sale
MAY 25 (Rain date May 26), LEWES, DE
Lewes in Bloom’s annual Garden and Flea Market Sale will take place from 9am to 4pm, Saturday, May 25 at its Schley Avenue warehouse. A variety of annuals, perennials, herbs and pollinator plants will be available for sale. Lewes in Bloom will also be selling hand-painted clay pots, planters, and gently used garden tools.
COST: Free
lewesinbloom.org
Bowers Beach Buccaneer Bash
MAY 25-26, BOWERS BEACH, DE
From 10 am to 5 pm at Bowers Beach Maritime Museum, don’t miss the 12th annual festival featuring demonstrations in 18th-century pirate life. Enjoy live entertainment, a town-wide scavenger hunt, and craft and period vendors for a day full of excitement and exploration.
COST: Free
bowersbeach.delaware.gov
Berlin Memorial Day Parade
MAY 27, BERLIN, MD
Honoring our fallen veterans from 11am to 5pm with music, food, vendors, a yard sale and games.
COST: Free
berlinmainstreet.com
West Side Creative Market
May 27-Sept. 2, REHOBOTH, DE
A weekly open air arts experience at 19826 Central Street, Rehoboth Beach featuring vendors, art, live music, food trucks, the Creative Market bar and more. Open Mondays and Fridays, 5pm to 9pm, Memorial Day through Labor Day.
COST: FREE
developingarts.org
Andy & Opie Fishing Tournament
JUNE 1, MILTON, DE
Created by Techno Goober as a way to encourage local children and parents to spend time together outside, the event will be held from 9am to noon (registration at 8am.) in Milton Memorial Park. As the event grows and gains momentum each year, members of the community and local businesses have continued to generously contribute to the cause, making sure that every child – no matter their financial means – can be involved and enjoy a day of fishing with family and friends.
COST: Free
getkidshooked.com
Bethany Beach Seaside Craft Show
JUNE 1, BETHANY BEACH, DE
This rain or shine event, featuring an array of vendors and exhibitors will be held from 10am to 4:30pm in downtown Bethany Beach. This juried craft show is sponsored by the Bethany Beach Cultural and Historical Affairs Committee.
COST: Free for spectators
townofbethanybeach.com
Delaware Pride Festival
JUNE 1, DOVER, DE
Experience a family-friendly festival from 10 am to 5 pm at the Legislative Hall in Dover, celebrating pride and diversity. Enjoy a variety of activities and entertainment suitable for all ages, ensuring a day of fun and community.
COST: Free
delawarepride.org
Mid-Atlantic Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival
JUNE 1-2, LEWES, DE
Held from 9am to 4pm at the Lewes Historical Society Campus, and presented by the Lewes Historical Society. Discover the origin and history of your own collection of sea glass from shard identification experts. Expand your knowledge of sea glass and the Mid-Atlantic coast by attending presentations throughout the weekend on subjects such as shipwrecks, sea glass identification, and ocean and bay conservation. Dozens of artists will be participating in the festival, along with sea glass expositions and collector’s showcases.
COST: Free
historiclewes.org
Rally for Our First Responders
JUNE 1, HUDSON FIELDS, MILTON, DE
Designed to thank our first responders and help raise money for their beneficiaries, this event features live music, children’s activities, live auction, food and drink vendors, car show, first responder demos, competitive and social cornhole and more. Event runs from 12pm to 6 pm with doors opening at 11:30am. Rain date is June 2.
COST: $10 General Admission; Children 12 and under FREE. $20 VIP ticket.
shafferfoundation.com
Wicomico Recreation Annual Free Youth Fishing Derby
JUNE 1, SALISBURY, MD
A tradition for more than 50 years, ages 15 and under are invited to see what they can catch in three categories: Most Fish Caught, Most Unusual Catch, and Biggest Fish. Check-in is at 8am. Fishing will be from 9am – 11am. Awards and snacks to follow.
COST: Free
wicomicorecandparks.org
Coastal Delaware Restaurant Week
JUNE 2-7, COASTAL DE
Restaurant Week Supports the Red, White, & Blue on the Culinary Coast™. Offers include either discounts or prix-fixe menus. Portion of proceeds to benefit military and first responders.
COST: Various
culinarycoastrestaurantweek.com
Blues for DU Bluefish Tournament
JUNE 7-9, OCEAN CITY, MD
Bahia Marina will host its annual Blues for DU Bluefish Fishing Tournament. Trophies and prize money will be awarded for first, second and third place with a prize pack for the top junior angler.
bahiamarina.com
Songwriter Showcase
June 7th-9th, Bethany Beach
Appreciate 3 nights of original music written and performed by local songwriters with national connections.
townofbethanybeach.com
Milton Pride Festival
JUNE 8, MILTON, DE
Sussex Pride is proud to partner with Milton Theatre for the first Milton Pride Mardi Gras outdoor festival featuring performances by Christine Havrilla, the Rainbow Chorale, and Mama’s Black Sheep. The festival takes place Saturday June 8th from 4pm to 8pm.
miltontheatre.com/pride/
St. Michaels Brewfest
JUNE 8, ST. MICHAELS, MD
St. Michaels Brewfest will feature more than 70 beers, collaborations and casks from local, regional and national breweries. This event will take place from 12pm to 4pm at three locations within easy walking distance of St Michaels: The Old Mill located behind Eastern Shore Brewing Co., Foxy’s, as well as The Crab
Claw Restaurant.
COST: $55 general admission; $5 non-testing friends; $110 VIP Brewcruise
stmichaelsbrewfest.com
Bathtub Races
JUNE 14, BERLIN, MD
The 34th annual Bathtub Races will take place at 6pm on June 14th. Local businesses race down Main Street in their homemade rolling tubs.
COST: Free
berlinchamber.org
Tuna and Tiaras Ladies Tuna Tournament
JUNE 14-15, OCEAN CITY, MD
Hosted by the Ocean City Fishing Center. A portion of all registration fees go to Women Supporting Women, an independent organization supporting those affected by breast cancer. All WSW funding stays on Delmarva to provide free services and support. Registration 5pm to 8 pm on June 15. Fishing days: June 16 and 17. Weigh ins at 4:30pm-7pm June 16 and 17 at Micky Fins.
tunaandtiaras.com
Antique & Classic Boat Festival
JUNE 14-16, ST. MICHAELS, MD
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum welcomes a Father’s Day weekend tradition back to its waterfront campus, presenting the 36th Antique and Classic Boat Festival and Coastal Arts Fair. The festival runs from 10am to 5pm on Friday and Saturday and 10am to 3pm on Sunday. In addition to the wide range of vessels on display the festival will be accompanied by a juried Coastal Arts Fair.
cbmm.org
June Jam Music Festival
JUNE 15, HOUSTON, DE
This outdoor concert, held at G&R Campground, has benefited all sorts of causes, from raising funds for children with catastrophic illnesses to supporting organizations like Toys for Tots.
COST: 28
junejam.com
Lavender & Lambs Festival
JUNE 15, MILLSBORO, DE
Held at Brittingham Farms from 9am to 5pm in conjunction with the Lewes Historical Society, this 2nd annual event features colonial interpreters from the Society who will offer demonstrations on sheep, lavender, wool dyeing and spinning. There will be additional vendors, live music, activities, food, and more.
COST: 15
brittinghamfarms.com/events
Lewes Garden Tour
JUNE 15, LEWES, DE
The Lewes Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau will sponsor the 33rd annual Lewes Garden Tour. A self-guided tour of private gardens, the event includes a Garden Market in Zwaanendael Park where vendors will be selling garden-related items during the hours of the tour. Lunch and cold beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets may also be purchased at the Lewes Chamber of Commerce.
leweschamber.com
Antique Tractor Club Show
JUNE 21-22, LAUREL, DE
This event will take place at Laurel Farmers Auction Market. Family-friendly fun hosted by the First State Antique Tractor Club and the Eastern Shore Region Antique Auto Club of America.
firststateantiquetractorclub.com
Teach a Kid to Fish Day
JUNE 22, OCEAN PINES, MD
The Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks Department invites families and friends to join members of the Ocean Pines Anglers Club to South Gate Pond from 9am to 11am. Please bring your own rod. Bait and water will be provided. Participants are also advised to bring insect repellent and a water bottle. Members of the Anglers Club and other local businesses will offer fishing tips, general fishing information and free fishing items. There will also be a drawing for a free rod and reel.
COST: Free
oceanpines.org
Salisbury Pride Festival
JUNE 22, SALISBURY, MD
For 2024 the Salisbury Pride Theme is Pride is Power. The Pride Festival will be held at Bell Tower Green from 11am to 5pm.
COST: Free
salisburypride.org
Kids Catch-All Fishing Tournament
June 22-23, REHOBOTH BEACH, DE
Experience this premier kids fishing event at Indian River, renowned as one of the best fishing spots on the East Coast, followed by an all-you-can-eat dinner for the entire family each night, complete with complimentary event T-shirts and exciting door prizes, all while supporting the valuable work of the Lyme Disease Association of Delmarva, Inc.
kidscatchall.com
OCMC Small Boat Tournament
JUNE 22-23, OCEAN CITY, MD
An Ocean City Marlin Club fishing tournament open to boats 34 feet and under. Weigh-ins at Sunset Marina from 3pm – 6:30pm. Please see the website for updated times and cost details.
ocmarlinclub.com
Stars & Stripes Fireworks Show
JUNE 24, MILLSBORO, DE
To be held from 6pm – 9:30pm at
Cupola Park in Millsboro.
COST: Free
millsboro.org
Kids’ Bull Run
JUNE 29, DEWEY BEACH
The Dewey Business Partnership will sponsor its annual Kids’ Running of the Bull.
COST: Free
deweybusinesspartnership.comm
Juneteenth Celebration
JUNE 29, LEWES, DE
An annual, family-friendly event from 12 noon to 6pm at George H.P. Smith Park in Lewes celebrating Juneteenth Freedom Day with live music, history lessons, dance, spoken word, food trucks and more. Hosted by the Lewes African American Heritage Commission. In the event of inclement weather the celebration will be held at Cape Henlopen High School.
COST: Free
leweschamber.com
Starboard Running of the Bull
JUNE 29, DEWEY BEACH, DE
A parody of the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain, the event raises funds for the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company. Dressed in the traditional Pamplona white clothing and red bandanas, participants gather at The Starboard and then run with the “Bull” on the beach.
thestarboard.com
Berlin Fireworks
JULY 3, BERLIN, MD
Beginning at dusk, enjoy a spectacular array of fireworks to celebrate Independence Day at Heron Park. Bring lawn chairs and blankets.
COST: Free
berlinchamber.org
Bethany Beach Fourth of July Celebration
JULY 4, BETHANY BEACH, DE
The annual Independence Day Celebration includes a parade, entertainment, and fireworks on the beach at dusk. Bring lawn chairs and blankets.
COST: Free
townofbethanybeach.com
Bring Mayberry Back to Milton
JULY 4, MILTON, DE
Bring Mayberry Back to Milton celebrating the 4th of July, starting at 10am, Milton Memorial Park. Dunk tank, sack races, chess matches, water balloon fights, pie-baking contest, bike-decorating contest and bike parade.
COST: Free
historicmilton.com
Dover Fourth of July Celebration
JULY 4, DOVER DE
A Celebration of Independence in the capital of the First State. The event on Legislative Mall includes a parade, music, crafts, vendors, kid-friendly activities and fireworks.
COST: Free
dover4thofjuly.com
Ocean City July Fourth Celebration
JULY 4, OCEAN CITY, MD
Celebrate the nation’s birthday with music and fireworks at 9:30pm at two locations: the beach at N. Division Street and at Northside Park.
COST: Free
oceancitymd.gov
Old-Fashioned 4th of July
JULY 4, LEWES, DE
Lewes celebrates the Fourth of July with classic children’s games and the beloved Doo-Dah Parade. The festivities continue with the annual boat parade setting sail at 2 pm from Roosevelt Inlet. Cap off the day with a spectacular fireworks display launched from a barge in the Delaware Bay off Lewes Beach, scheduled for approximately 9 pm.
COST: Free
gofourthlewes.org
Rehoboth Beach 4th of July Fireworks
JULY 6, REHOBOTH BEACH, DE
Celebrate Independence Day in Rehoboth Beach with a fireworks display at approximately 9:30pm.
COST: Free
cityofrehoboth.com
St. Peter’s Annual Art Show
JULY 6, LEWES, DE
At St. Peter’s Episcopal Church from 9am to 3pm, featuring artwork in a variety of media including painting, jewelry, ceramics, glass, metalwork, photography, wood, and fiber.
COST: Free
stpeterslewes.org
Rehoboth Art League Cottage Tour
JULY 9-10, REHOBOTH BEACH, DE
The Rehoboth Art League will continue its annual Cottage Tour, which is set for 10am to 3pm July 9 and 10. Featuring local homes that showcase the best of the area’s art and design, the homes on this year’s tour offer a variety of landscapes and interior and architectural designs, ranging from historically significant to contemporary and sleek. This year’s Cottage Tour Artist is Rick Phillips.
COST: $40 per person
rehobothartleague.org
Ocean City Tuna Tournament
July 12-14, OCEAN CITY, MD
Hosted by the Ocean City Fishing Center, the 37th annual Ocean City Tuna Tournament has become the world’s largest tuna tournament with a record payout that eclipsed $1 million in each of the last two years. The three-day event is full of local vendors selling everything from boats to tackle to jewelry. The tournament will provide dinner and entertainment for participants and sponsors. Boats of all sizes from ports throughout the East Coast travel to Ocean City to fish this event.
octunatournament.com
Canoe Races at the Lighthouse
July 16, DEWEY BEACH, DE
This event is sponsored by the Dewey Beach Business Partnership. Please visit website for for more specific times and locations
COST: Free
deweybusinesspartnership.com
Delaware State Fair
JULY 18-27, HARRINGTON, DE
The 10-day fair features a large midway area with rides, concessions, a demolition derby, free entertainment and livestock displays at the fairgrounds located on South Dupont Hwy., Harrington. M&T Grandstand will feature performances by Rick Springfield, Ludacris, Jordan Davis, Jon Pardi and others.
COST: Gate Admission per day: $10 online, $10.50 in person for adults 13 and older; $5 online ($5.50) for ages 6-12; free for kids 5 and under. Adult 5 day passes available for $35. Concert prices vary
delawarestatefair.com
OCMC Kids’ Classic Tournament
JULY 19-21, OCEAN CITY, MD
This annual tournament benefits the Wish-a-Fish Foundation. Registration is from 6pm to 8pm, Friday, July 19, with fishing days July 20 and 21. Weigh-ins are 3pm to 6:30pm on July 20 and 3pm to 6pm on July 21 at Sunset Marina.
ocmarlinclub.com/tournaments
Huk Big Fish Classic
JULY 26-28, OCEAN CITY, MD
Fish a 32-hour time slot out of any port from New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland or Virginia for a chance to catch the biggest fish out of the Atlantic Ocean. Billed as the most exciting tournament in the world. Vendors open daily in the Big Fish Village at 3pm. Scales open at 4pm Friday to Sunday. Registration is from noon to 8pm, July 25 at M.R. Ducks, 311 Talbot St.
COST: Registration fee per boat will be $900 before June 1st and $1200 thereafter.
bigfishclassic.com
Weekend at Bertha’s
JULY 26-28, TOWNSEND, DE
Hosted by Diamond State Merry Pranksters, this annual gathering celebrates counterculture and arts of a diverse variety and kind. The event is a three-day camping music festival.
COST: Visit website for specific prices
weekendatberthas.com
Illuminate the Beach Festival
JULY 27, OCEAN CITY, MD
A holistic health and wellness expo held at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City from 10am to 5pm. Visitors will explore aisles filled with practitioners and vendors to sample a range of holistic services, indulge in mini-sessions of modern and ancient modalities to enhance well-being, connect with experienced and respected holistic practitioners, and find natural products and unique gifts.
COST: illuminatefestivals.com
OCMC Frankie Pettolina Heels and ReelsTournament
AUGUST 2-3, OCEAN CITY, MD
This is a 1 of 2 day event for lady anglers only. Registration is from 6pm to 8pm, Aug. 1, with fishing days Aug. 2-3. There are prizes for Billfish releases, largest Mahi Mahi, largest Tuna, and a top Junior Angler award is presented as well. This tournament benefits the OCMC Auxiliary Scholarship Fund.
COST: Not available at press time
ocmarlinclub.com/tournaments
Berlin Peach Festival
AUGUST 3, BERLIN, MD
Held from 10am to 3pm at the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum in Berlin MD, this community festival features local peaches for sale and a variety of peachy fun from downtown Berlin businesses. Shuttle available.
COST: Free
chamber.oceancity.org
Wyoming Peach Festival
AUGUST 3, WYOMING, DE
The festival, set for 9am to 3pm at Railroad Ave., features live entertainment, vendors, food, community displays, a children’s area and plenty of peach-themed activities.
COST: Free
wyoming.delaware.gov
KarmaFest
AUGUST 3-4, MILTON, DE
KarmaFest Summer Sun Fest will take place from 8am to 5pm at Hudson Fields and features live music, vendors, tent camping, yoga and more.
karmafest.com
Rehoboth Art League’s Outdoor Fine Art & Fine Craft Show
AUGUST 3-4 and AUGUST 10-11, REHOBOTH BEACH, DE
This event at Henlopen Acres features 100+ juried artists selling works from 10 am to 5 pm Saturdays and 10am to 4pm Sundays, with live music, food vendors, activities, demonstrations, gallery exhibits, gardens, and a Dogfish Beer Garden rain or shine.
COST: $5 weekend entry fee for adults, Free for children under 12.
rehobothartleague.org
White Marlin Open
AUGUST 5-9, OCEAN CITY, MD
This fishing tournament attracts people from all over the globe, even celebrities. With more than $1 million in prizes, registration is on Aug. 3 from 11am to 5pm at Harbour Island Marina and from 11am to 3pm at South Jersey Marina, Cape May, NJ, and on Aug. 4 from 11am to 7pm at Harbour Island Marina. Fishing begins Aug. 5 and anglers can fish any three days until August 9. Weigh-ins daily 4pm to 9:15pm, Aug. 5-9 at Harbour Island Marina.
whitemarlinopen.com
Restaurant Olympics
AUGUST 6, DEWEY BEACH DE
Local restaurants face off in a variety of competitions on land and sea in a party-like atmosphere. Only one restaurant staff member will be named champion.
COST: Donation suggested
deweybusinesspartnership.com
Zap Pro/Am World Championship of Skimboarding
AUGUST 9-11, DEWEY BEACH, DE
A multi-day festival highlighting Southern Delaware beach culture and summer spirit through skimboarding, skateboarding, stand-up paddle boarding, music and art. The main event is the Zap Pro/Am World Championships of Skimboarding at McKinley Street. The competition attracts more than 100 of the top skimboarders from around the world.
COST: Free for spectators
alleyoopskim.com
Delaware Hospice Fest
AUGUST 10, MILFORD, DE
Hospice Fest will be held from 8am to 2:30pm at 101 Veteran’s Blvd, Milford,DE. The event features a car show, yard sale, car corral and children’s activities. Rain date is Aug.11.
COST: Car show entries: $15 Advanced Registration; $20 on day of event
delawarehospice,org
Delaware Seafood Festival
August 10, Millsboro, DE
Experience a day of family fun at the Delaware Seafood Festival! From 10 am to 7 pm, enjoy craft vendors, beer tents, a corn hole tournament, crab cake competition, steamed seafood to go, shrimp eating contest, live music, kids zone, food trucks, raffles, giveaways, and more! A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the American Legion Post 28.
shoresmokeseasonings.com
Artists Paint OC Festival
AUGUST 14-18, OCEAN CITY, MD
For five days, 50 artists will paint famous local scenes at perfect times of the day and compete for various monetary awards.
artleagueofoceancity.org
The MidAtlantic Tournament
AUGUST 18-23, OCEAN CITY, MD
The MidAtlantic has continually set the standard for big game fishing tournaments in terms of prize money, hospitality, and conservation. Boat owners, captains and crews come together to compete in this annual event. Registration August 18.
themidatlantic.com
Ocean City Jeep Week
AUGUST 22-25, OCEAN CITY, MD
A festival about all things Jeep held annually at the Ocean City Convention Center and featuring a VIP Jeep Display, vendors, live music, cornhole, and a Jeep beach crawl.
oceancityjeepweek.com
Bargains on the Broadkill and the Great Duck Race
AUGUST 24, MILTON, DE
Bargains on the Broadkill is back in Milton Memorial Park. Enjoy shopping the 35+ vendors, music, food, and the chance to win cash during the duck race and the Irish Eyes Kayak & Canoe Race.
historicmilton.com
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