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Overview of Delaware's 2025 Festivals and Events

Delaware, known as the "First State," offers a diverse array of festivals and events throughout 2025, reflecting its rich heritage, artistic endeavors, and community pride. From the lively streets of Wilmington to the serene beaches of the southern coast, each month brings unique celebrations that cater to all interests.

The year begins with winter festivities like the Fire and Ice Festival in Bethany Beach, showcasing intricate ice sculptures and family-friendly activities. As spring approaches, events such as the Dover Days Festival highlight Delaware's colonial history with parades and reenactments. Summer ushers in a series of music and arts festivals, including the renowned Brandywine Festival of the Arts in Wilmington, attracting artists and visitors nationwide.

Autumn features harvest celebrations and cultural events, while the year concludes with holiday markets and light displays that illuminate the state's festive spirit. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, Delaware's 2025 festival calendar offers a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate the state's unique character and community.

Learn more: Full List of Festivals in the US for 2025: Music, Food, Art, Film, Street and More

Delaware's 2025 Festival Calendar: A Month-by-Month Guide to Celebrations and Event
Festivals in Delaware 2025

List of Festivals and Big Events in Delaware2025

January: Winter Festivities

Fire and Ice Festival

  • Date: January 31 – February 2, 2025
  • Location: Bethany Beach, DE
  • Significance: A winter celebration featuring ice sculptures inspired by literary classics, live ice carving demonstrations, bonfires, and family-friendly activities.
  • Activities: Ice sculpture tours, live music, skating rink, chili cook-off, and drink tastings.
  • Tickets: Free admission; some activities may require tickets.
  • How to Attend: Visit the official website for event schedules and ticket information.

Winter WonderFest

  • Date: January 10–12, 2025
  • Location: Lewes, DE
  • Significance: A festive event featuring light displays, a Christmas village, and holiday-themed attractions.
  • Activities: Light show, carnival rides, Santa's workshop, and holiday market.
  • Tickets: Admission fees vary; tickets available online.
  • How to Attend: Purchase tickets in advance through the event's website.

February: Cultural Celebrations

Black History Month Black-Owned Business Expo & Festival

  • Date: February 15, 2025
  • Location: Middletown, DE
  • Significance: Celebrating Black History Month by showcasing black-owned businesses, cultural performances, and community engagement.
  • Activities: Vendor exhibits, live entertainment, professional headshots, raffles, and giveaways.
  • Tickets: $1 admission.
  • How to Attend: Tickets available at the venue; early arrival recommended.

Hockessin Art Festival

  • Date: February 23–25, 2025
  • Location: Hockessin, DE
  • Significance: An annual art show featuring fine art from local and regional artists, supporting the Wilmington & Western Railroad.
  • Activities: Art exhibits, sales, and artist meet-and-greets.
  • Tickets: $5 admission.
  • How to Attend: Tickets available at the door; proceeds benefit local charities.

March: Spring Awakening

Spring Fling Sip & Shop

  • Date: March 3, 2025
  • Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
  • Significance: A marketplace expo featuring a variety of vendors, crafts, and retail products, perfect for spring shopping.
  • Activities: Vendor booths, product demonstrations, and special offers.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Open to the public; no tickets required.

Seventh Health Fitness & Leisure Expo

  • Date: March 8, 2025
  • Location: Lewes, DE
  • Significance: An expo promoting health, fitness, and leisure activities, featuring exhibitors and demonstrations.
  • Activities: Health screenings, fitness demonstrations, and informational booths.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Open to the public; no tickets required

April: Artistic Expressions

Home Expo

  • Date: April 5–6, 2025
  • Location: Lewes, DE
  • Significance: A showcase of home improvement products and services, featuring local and national exhibitors.
  • Activities: Exhibitor booths, product demonstrations, and expert consultations.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Open to the public; no tickets required.

Mother's Day Market Extravaganza

  • Date: April 27, 2025
  • Location: Frankford, DE
  • Significance: A specialty-themed event featuring a variety of vendors, perfect for Mother's Day shopping.
  • Activities: Vendor booths, live entertainment, and food options.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Open to the public; no tickets required.

May: Springtime Festivities

Dover Days Festival

  • Date: May 3–5, 2025
  • Location: Dover, DE
  • Significance: A celebration of Delaware's history and heritage, featuring colonial-themed activities and parades.
  • Activities: Historical reenactments, maypole dancing, craft fairs, and a parade through downtown Dover.
  • Tickets: Free admission; food and vendor items available for purchase.
  • How to Attend: Parking is available at designated lots near downtown Dover.

Rehoboth Beach Spring Sidewalk Sale

  • Date: May 17–19, 2025
  • Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
  • Significance: A three-day shopping extravaganza with discounts and promotions from local businesses.
  • Activities: Shop for seasonal deals, enjoy live music, and explore local food options.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Downtown Rehoboth Beach offers parking; arrive early for the best deals.

June: Early Summer Fun

Clifford Brown Jazz Festival

  • Date: June 15–18, 2025
  • Location: Wilmington, DE
  • Significance: A premier jazz festival named in honor of legendary trumpeter Clifford Brown, celebrating jazz music and culture.
  • Activities: Live performances by renowned jazz artists, food vendors, and art displays.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Held at Rodney Square in downtown Wilmington; public transportation is encouraged.

St. Anthony’s Italian Festival

  • Date: June 2–9, 2025
  • Location: Wilmington, DE
  • Significance: A vibrant celebration of Italian heritage and culture with food, music, and community events.
  • Activities: Traditional Italian food, live music, carnival rides, and wine tastings.
  • Tickets: $10 general admission; food and drinks sold separately.
  • How to Attend: Parking is available near the festival grounds; early arrival is recommended.

July: Independence Day Celebrations

Rehoboth Beach Fireworks

  • Date: July 4, 2025
  • Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
  • Significance: A stunning fireworks display celebrating Independence Day on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk.
  • Activities: Fireworks, live music, and family-friendly activities along the boardwalk.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Arrive early to secure a viewing spot; public parking lots are available.

Delaware State Fair

  • Date: July 18–27, 2025
  • Location: Harrington, DE
  • Significance: A beloved annual fair showcasing agriculture, live entertainment, and carnival attractions.
  • Activities: Livestock shows, concerts, carnival rides, food vendors, and games.
  • Tickets: $10 for adults; $5 for children under 12; ride tickets sold separately.
  • How to Attend: On-site parking available; tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.

August: Music and Seafood Festivals

Delaware Junction Country Music Festival

  • Date: August 10–12, 2025
  • Location: Harrington, DE
  • Significance: A celebration of country music, featuring top national and regional artists.
  • Activities: Live music performances, food vendors, and merchandise booths.
  • Tickets: $75 for a single day; $200 for a weekend pass.
  • How to Attend: Parking available near the venue; tickets sold online.

Annual Big Fish Grill Crab Feast

  • Date: August 24, 2025
  • Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
  • Significance: A seafood lover’s paradise celebrating Delaware’s famous blue crabs.
  • Activities: All-you-can-eat crab, live music, and seafood cooking demos.
  • Tickets: $50 per person; children under 10 free.
  • How to Attend: Reservations required; parking available at the venue.

September: Harvest and Heritage

Delaware Wine and Beer Festival

  • Date: September 15, 2025
  • Location: Dover, DE
  • Significance: A premier event featuring local wineries, breweries, and distilleries.
  • Activities: Tastings, live music, food trucks, and craft vendors.
  • Tickets: $35 per person; VIP packages available.
  • How to Attend: Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.

Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival

  • Date: September 21, 2025
  • Location: Bethany Beach, DE
  • Significance: A one-day event featuring fine arts and crafts along the scenic boardwalk.
  • Activities: Art exhibits, live music, and food vendors.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Parking available near the boardwalk; arrive early for the best spots.

October: Fall Festivities

Sea Witch Festival

  • Date: October 25–27, 2025
  • Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
  • Significance: A Halloween-themed event featuring parades, costume contests, and spooky family fun.
  • Activities: Horse-drawn wagon rides, trick-or-treating, and live performances.
  • Tickets: Free admission; some activities may require tickets.
  • How to Attend: Downtown parking available; early arrival is recommended.

Harvest Ridge Wine Festival

  • Date: October 5, 2025
  • Location: Marydel, DE
  • Significance: A fall celebration at Harvest Ridge Winery featuring wine tastings and autumnal activities.
  • Activities: Wine tastings, hayrides, live music, and local food vendors.
  • Tickets: $20 per person; includes wine glass and tastings.
  • How to Attend: Parking available on-site; tickets sold online or at the venue.

November: Holiday Preparations

Wilmington Winter Festival

  • Date: November 23–25, 2025
  • Location: Wilmington, DE
  • Significance: A cozy festival marking the start of the holiday season with light displays and markets.
  • Activities: Holiday lights, artisan vendors, and caroling performances.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Held in downtown Wilmington; public transportation recommended.

Thanksgiving Day Parade

  • Date: November 28, 2025
  • Location: Wilmington, DE
  • Significance: A festive parade featuring floats, marching bands, and seasonal performances.
  • Activities: Parade, live entertainment, and food vendors.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route.

December: Holiday Cheer

Rehoboth Beach Holiday Tree Lighting

  • Date: December 1, 2025
  • Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
  • Significance: A festive tree lighting ceremony kicking off the holiday season.
  • Activities: Caroling, holiday treats, and photos with Santa Claus.
  • Tickets: Free admission.
  • How to Attend: Parking available near downtown Rehoboth Beach.

Winter WonderFest

  • Date: December 14–24, 2025
  • Location: Lewes, DE
  • Significance: A magical holiday event featuring light displays and family activities.
  • Activities: Drive-through light shows, carnival rides, and a holiday market.
  • Tickets: $25 per car for the light show; additional fees for activities.
  • How to Attend: Tickets available online; parking on-site.

Conclusion

Delaware's 2025 festival calendar offers an exciting array of events that showcase the state's rich cultural, culinary, and artistic heritage. From music festivals and seafood feasts to holiday lights and craft fairs, every month offers something special to explore. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, Delaware's festivals provide the perfect opportunity to create unforgettable memories.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Delaware for festivals?

Delaware hosts festivals year-round, but summer and fall are especially vibrant, with events like the Delaware State Fair and Sea Witch Festival.

2. Are Delaware’s festivals family-friendly?

Yes, many events, such as the Fire and Ice Festival and Sea Witch Festival, are designed for families and include activities for children.

3. Do I need to purchase tickets for these festivals?

Some festivals, like the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, are free, while others, like the Harvest Ridge Wine Festival, require tickets. Check the event’s official website for details.

4. Are pets allowed at Delaware festivals?

Policies vary by event. Outdoor festivals like the Bethany Beach Arts Festival may allow pets, but check event guidelines.

5. How should I plan for parking?

Many events offer parking on-site or in nearby lots. For busy festivals, arrive early or use public transportation.

Plan your trip and immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities Delaware has to offer in 2025!

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