If you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation destination this spring, look no further than the coast of Delaware. From birding, crabbing, and farmers markets to garden tours, Memorial Day parades, and sidewalk sales, spring festivals and events abound in Southern Delaware. Of course, this area is also home to some of the best beaches boasting boardwalks, boutiques, breweries, and bars. Our coastal retreat in the country is just a short drive from all the action, but perfectly situated in a serene location where you can relax and recover from all the fun.
April Festivals and Events
Annual Lewes Tulip Celebration
The annual Lewes Tulip Celebration honors all things tulip the first two weeks of April as tens of thousands of more than 100 varieties of tulips and spring bulbs will be bursting in beautiful color. The timing of this showy display is not an exact science, so a change in temperature and weather may delay or hasten the blooms, which were planted the previous fall. During the Celebration, purchase your own tulips, take a walking tour, discover floral Inspirations and demonstrations, and more. Download your copy of the Tiptoe to the Tulips Map, which lists more than 20 locations where the bulbs were planted along with a schedule of Celebration activities.
History in Bloom Tour
History in Bloom TourCome celebrate spring the first weekend in April during the annual History in Bloom Tour. The Tour will take place in the back garden of the Cannonball House Maritime Museum. An experienced history guide will lead each 60-minute tour while providing information on Lewes’ rich maritime history, which goes all the way back to Dutch settlement in 1631. You will quickly see why “The First Town in the First State” has so much to offer. Your tour will also include a knowledgeable garden guide from Lewes in Bloom to explain the tulip varieties and gardening care of other flora lining Lewis’s streets. Tickets are limited, so reserve early.
Rehoboth Beach Historical Tour – Spring Seasons
April brings more than showers to Southern Delaware. The start of the spring season also brings the sights and sounds of history during the Rehoboth Beach Historical Tour. Come experience beautiful Rehoboth Beach from aboard the iconic Classic Trolley while learning the history of this unique beach town.
Delmarva Birding Weekend
In mid-to-late April, experience world-class birdwatching during Delmarva Birding Weekend. Birders will spend four days on the lookout for hundreds of different avian friends that call Delaware’s coastal wildlife preserves home.
Dewey Beach Bacon Fest
An entire festival focused on bacon? That’s right! Near the end of April each year, bacon fans unite for the Dewey Beach Bacon Fest to sample savory, bacon creations from local restaurants. You’ll have to pick up your pass and map ahead of time, which will display your specific start time and location. There is some walking, but you’ll love the fresh air and fun sites along the way. Plus, isn’t exercise a good thing after sampling so much bacon? What’s more, your pass includes all events scheduled for the weekend. Find out who’s going to win best bacon on the beach! Tickets go fast, so don’t wait!
May Festivals and Events
Historic Lewes Farmers Market
Every Saturday beginning and May through September, residents and visitors alike love exploring the historic Lewes Farmers Market. Open from 8:00 am to Noon, the market features fresh, colorful produce and local food items.
Spring Sidewalk Sale
For decades, the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce has been hosting the Annual Spring Sidewalk Sale the first weekend in May. The sale begins at 10:00 am and ends at 8:00 pm each day, rain or shine. The great State of Delaware already boasts tax-free shopping, which adds to the savings. Stroll from shops and outlets to boutiques and galleries along Rehoboth’s quaint avenues. Scenic views, exceptional deals, and fabulous finds await!
Lewes British Motorcar Show
The British are coming! Don’t miss the Lewes British Motorcar Show where a wide array of over 100 classic British vehicles are on display for your viewing pleasure. A new class of vehicles is now part of the exhibit – “Future Classics,” which comprises model years 2001 to the present.
Stroll along these metal beauties against a backdrop of the beautiful Delaware Bay. Four judges will choose winners in each of 12 classes to be announced during the concluding Winners’ Circle Parade. Beginning at the ferry terminal, the cars will slowly cross the drawbridge and head down Second Street. Amenities include food and beverages at the Lewes Coffee Company and Grain on the Rocks. This eye appealing event is scheduled the same weekend as the 3-day Spring Sidewalk Sale, so take advantage of a weekend full of awesome cars and awesome bargains!
Rehoboth Arts Festival
Toward the end of May, prior to Memorial Day weekend, come experience the unique creations at the annual Rehoboth Arts Festival. Located in downtown’s picturesque Grove Park, artists will showcase and sell their original, quality artwork. If you love art, this is a must-see event.
Annual Lewes Memorial Day Parade
The Lewes Memorial Day Parade is a much-anticipated annual event that honors men and women who sacrificed their lives for this great nation. But there’s also many more fun things to do Memorial Day weekend, from beaches and festivals to relaxing poolside.
June Festivals and Events
Milton Horseshoe Crab & Shorebird Festival
Celebrate horseshoe crabs and shorebirds, two of Delaware’s iconic natural wonders, during the annual Milton Horseshoe Crab & Shorebird Festival. You’ll be in for a treat with food and drink, music and games, arts and crafts, boat rides and canoe trips, and scenic nature walks at the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
Mid-Atlantic Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival
In early June, this unique festival celebrates all things sea glass! Peruse and purchase incredibly artistic creations by talented artisans who represent the best of the Atlantic seaboard from New Hampshire to Florida. Rain or shine.
Coastal Delaware Restaurant Week
Sweet, savory, and satisfying! The Coastal Delaware Restaurant Week is an annual event in early June that showcases local restaurants’ culinary creations. It’s a win-win for restaurateurs and visitors, but especially visitors who get to sample deliciously delightful dishes!
Annual Lewes Garden Tour
Nothing says springtime like a colorful, blooming garden. For over three decades, the Lewes Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau has sponsored the annual Lewes Garden Tour in mid-June. Garden enthusiasts will meander through area gardens that thrill and inspire. In addition to touring the gardens, shop at the Garden Market in Zwaanendael Park. At the food tent from 11 am to 2pm, you’ll be able to sit a spell to rest and enjoy refreshments. For more information, please call 302-645-8073 or email inquiry@leweschamber.com.
Milton Theater
From bands and orchestras to comedy and theatrical performances, including Broadway hits like Les Miserables and Lion King, the historic Milton Theatre takes center stage. There’s always something happening on stage, so be sure to check out the season line-up and get your tickets before your next coastal getaway at Mansion Farm Inn.
