Festivals

Nanticoke Indian Powwow. DAN COOK PHOTO
Annual Chocolate Tasting
September 6, Lewes
Hosted in the Officer’s Club at Cape Henlopen State Park from 1 to 4 p.m., this sweet fundraiser invites visitors to sample homemade treats. Volunteers create fudge, truffles and brownies using secret recipes. A tasting ticket buys six samples, and guests can purchase extra tickets. Proceeds support the Friends of Cape Henlopen Education Fund’s programs for environmental education.
fochsp.org
Bethany Boardwalk Arts Festival
September 6, Bethany Beach
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Bethany Beach boardwalk and nearby streets transform into a vibrant open-air gallery featuring more than 100 juried fine artists. The festival also includes a wine tasting featuring more than 60 varietals. The tasting requires a ticket and includes a souvenir glass.
bethanybeachartsfestival.com
Youth Fishing Tournament
September 6, Lewes
Cape Henlopen State Park’s fishing pier becomes a playground for young anglers. From 8 to 11 a.m., participants aged 15 and under vie for prizes awarded for the largest fish, most fish, and the first and last catches. The $10 entry fee includes a commemorative T-shirt (first 70 entrants) and every child receives a prize. Families cheer from the pier as children learn the basics of baiting, casting and patience.
fochsp.org
47th Annual Nanticoke Indian Powwow
September 6–7, Milton
The Nanticoke Indian Tribe hosts its annual powwow at Hudson Fields, with gates opening at 10 a.m. and Grand Entry at noon on both days. Tribal members perform traditional dances, accompanied by drum groups and singers. The event includes food stands serving Indian tacos, fry bread, and corn soup, along with vendor booths offering beadwork, leather goods, and crafts. Informational exhibits share Nanticoke history and cultural practices. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for ages 11–17, and free for children 10 and under.
nanticokeindians.org
21st Annual Cannonball 5K & Trenny Elliott Memorial Walk
September 7, Lewes
Hosted by Historic Lewes, this annual run/walk honors Trenny Elliott and supports local preservation efforts. The race winds through scenic areas of downtown Lewes.
historiclewes.org
History Book Festival
September 26–28, Lewes
The nation’s only book festival devoted to history returns for its ninth year with 22 author talks, 95% free. Visitors can meet award-winning writers of historical fiction and nonfiction, attend presentations, and explore historic Lewes. Programs also extend into schools, libraries, and community groups.
historybookfestival.org
Boast the Coast Maritime Festival
October 4, Lewes
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., enjoy free boat tours, seafood tastings, maritime exhibits, live music, and family activities at Lewes City Dock and Canalfront Park. Art vendors, reenactments, and a fish toss round out the fun.
leweschamber.com
Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival
October 16–19, Rehoboth, Lewes & Dewey Beach
Spanning five stages, this four-day event features Tower of Power, Sheila E., Lee Ritenour, and more. Enjoy world-class jazz alongside shopping, dining, and coastal charm.
rehobothjazz.com
Zombie Fest 2025: Apocalypse
October 18, Milton
Now at Hudson Fields, Milton Theatre’s biggest bash yet kicks off at 4 p.m. with live bands, freak shows, fireworks, costume contests, vendors, food trucks, and KidsFest fun. Admission $5; kids 12 and under free.
miltontheatre.com
Sea Witch Festival
October 24–26, Rehoboth & Dewey Beach
Now in its 35th year, this Halloween tradition draws tens of thousands for the costume parade, pet parade, scarecrow building, trick-or-treating, games, and entertainment. Note: new parking rules apply.
beach-fun.com

Farmers Markets

Bethany Beach Farmers Market
OPEN June 1 – Aug. 31
Sundays, 8 a.m. to noon.
Garfield Parkway and Pennsylvania Avenues, Bethany Beach
Farmers Market at Warren Station
OPEN June 6 – Aug. 29
Fridays, 8 a.m. to noon
1406 Coastal Hwy. (Rt. 1 Bayside), Fenwick Island
Historic Lewes Farmers Market
OPEN May 3 – Sept. 27
Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon.
George H.P. Smith Park, Lewes
Historic Lewes Farmers Market at Kings Highway
OPEN June 4 – Sept. 3
Wednesdays, 8 to 11:30 a.m.
37707 Crooked Hammock Way, Lewes
Historic Lewes Farmers Market Fall Market
OPEN Oct. 4 – Nov. 22
Saturdays, 9 a.m. to Noon
Lewes School Parking Lot, 820 Savannah Rd., Lewes
Milton Farmers and Artisans Market
OPEN May 16 – Sept. 26
Fridays, 3:30 to 6 p.m.
514 Union St., Milton
Nassau Valley Vineyards Farmers Market
OPEN May 4 – Oct. 26
Sundays, noon to 3 p.m.
32165 Winery Way, Lewes
Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market
OPEN May 6 – Oct. 28
Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Grove Park, Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
Riverwalk Farmers Market
OPEN May 3 – Dec. 20
Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
S. Walnut Street at Riverwalk Park, Milford
Sea Colony Farmers Market
OPEN June 4 – Aug. 27
Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to noon.
Marketplace at Sea Colony Shopping Center, 33546 Market Place, Bethany Beach
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