Delaware might be one of the smallest states on the map, but there’s plenty to tempt a travelling tourist or two. White beaches, vibrant villages, charming locals and a unique small-town spirit is enough to make many visitors return for more. And when you’re not indulging in all of this, you can also join in on one of the great state’s festivals, which offer food, drinks, music, films, history, art, education and more.
Dover Days Festival, an annual tradition first established in 1933, is a great way to acquaint yourself with the history and heritage of Delaware. What started as a humble flower show is now a vibrant and varied plethora of dance, crafts, arts, games, trading and around 50,000 avid attendees. Highlights include traditional events such as fireworks displays, parades (including some with pets!), car shows and dances – with many vendors in attendance to help you fill your face with food and drink. It’s all a proud and plentiful celebration of Delaware and its people, and it’s a great way to have some fun.
Firefly Music Festival is perhaps the best-known music event on the east coast of the US. Each year, loads of artists land in Dover to blow the ears off masses of music fans. Previous artists include some of the biggest names in music, like Paul McCartney, The Killers, Foo Fighters, Arctic Monkeys and The Flaming Lips. It’s four fantastic days of canvas-based chaos, where you can camp, sing and sip your heart out.
Another great place to imbibe some liquid treats is at the Delaware Wine and Beer festival, with offerings and samples of local and regional wines, beers and spirits for thirsty attendees to try and buy. Many local wineries and breweries attend the event along with their very best produce, while food vendors provide the chewy treats and musicians offer the soundtrack.
But that’s not all there is to offer – there are the booming and zooming NASCAR races, where fans of speed can cheer on the heart-stopping antics of daring drivers, while Rehoboth Beach hosts the annual Sea Witch Halloween and Fiddler’s Festival, with its spooky and spellbinding collection of contests, competitions and creepy capers.