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THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010

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Where To Eat, Shop, Stay And Play In The Rehoboth Beach Area


The Calendar

These functional and beautiful docks line Henlopen Acres Marina


The Calendar

THE SUMMER CAPITAL the 2011–2012 calendar

SUMMER is the time to get out on the town and experience the sights, sounds, and all-around easy livin’ life on the beach offers. Beyond the obvious appeal of the sun, sand,

boardwalk, and the accompanying boardwalk fries (that you’ve already indulged in once or twice this week — be honest), there are count-less cultural, historical, outdoor and culinary experiences to be had. And, lucky for you, we’ve made your summertime even easier by listing our favorite events in this neat little calendar. We hope you’ll get out there and enjoy all the area has to offer.

May 1 THE BLESSING OF THE FLEETJoin in the tradition of watermen through the ages at the annual Blessing of the Fleet. The event is held at Fisherman’s Wharf on the Lewes and Rehoboth Canal in Lewes. Enter-tainment includes music, local clowns and bal-loon art. During the ceremony “Taps” is played and a wreath is dropped from the stern of a fishing vessel into the water to honor the lives of watermen and fishermen who have passed away. Afterward you can catch the boat parade, where every vessel is blessed to keep their crew safe from harm for the season. For more infor-mation, call (302) 745- 0717.

May 6 to May 8 LEWES MERCHANTS’ SPRING SALESearch the streets of historic Lewes looking for treasures among the quaint shops. Merchants line the sidewalks of downtown Lewes with a variety of clothing, home, decorative and child-friendly sale items. The three-day event runs from 10am to 5pm. Call (877) 465-3937 or visit www.leweschamber.com.

May 7 BRITISH MOTOR CAR SHOW Check out an amazing array of classic British motorcars. Sponsored by the British Car Club of Delaware and the Lewes Chamber of Com-merce, the show begins at 11am at the Lewes Historical Society Complex at Second and Shipcarpenter Street and concludes at 3pm with the Winners’ Circle Parade down Second Street. One of the show’s popular features is the Hiram’s Pub concession, serving traditional British pub food, ales, tea and English soft drinks. The cost is $5 for adults (children under 12 are free) and admission includes a tour of the historical society’s buildings. Call the Lewes Chamber of Commerce at (302) 645-8073 or visit online at www.leweschamber.com.

May 7 BEACH DRIVING CLINICBeach driving will be a breeze after attending this Delaware Seashore State Park program that covers the basics of safe and courteous driving on surf-fishing beaches. Veteran surf fishermen and park staff will share their tips and tricks to make your experience a great one. The class runs from 10am to noon, and those with a valid Delaware State Parks surf-fishing tag on their vehicles can head onto the beach when the class is over. The class fee is $5 per person with no pre-registration necessary. The class will meet at the Indian River Life-Saving Station. For more information, call (302) 227-6991 or visit www.destateparks.com.

May 7 DELAWARE SEASHORE SPRING SURF FISHING CLASSIC Test your fishing skills on the shores of the Delaware Seashore State Park in one of three

separate individual divisions – open, women and children. Judges will be scoring the overall catch right on the beach and prizes will be given for the overall largest fish and for the largest bluefish. The event is sponsored by Old Inlet Bait and Tackle Shop. Call them at (302) 227-7974 for information.

May 8 INTRODUCTION TO SURF FISHINGWhether you need a refresher or are new to one of the most popular pastimes on the Del-aware Coast, this Delaware Seashore State Park course offers just what you need. From 10am to noon you will have an opportunity to catch and release a big one after learning about tackle, bait and the current rules and regula-tions. Participants must be at least 10 years old and a parent or guardian must accompany anyone under 16. The $25 cost includes use of spinning rod and reel combos as well as tackle and bait. The class will meet at the Indian River Life-Saving Station. Class size is limited. Call (302) 227-6991 to pre-register and get direc-tions or visit www.destateparks.com.

May 9 ROCKETS FOR DELAWAREJoin young competitors for dozens of rocket launches sponsored by the Delaware Aero-Space Education Foundation (DASEF). Flying at speeds exceeding 400 mph and reaching alti-tudes as high as 3,500 feet, the rocket launches are the highlight of the activities, displays and demonstrations that will take place from 9am to 3pm at Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes. The event is free to the public (subject to a park entrance fees). For more information, call (302) 454-2432 or visit www.dasef.org and click the School Programs tab.

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 The sky is set ablaze over Breakwater East End Light, Delaware Bay and the trails of Cape Henlopen State Park

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010Shells and sand crabs intrigue an inquisitive young mind

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 These WWII watch towers overlook the same coasts they once helped protect from German U-Boats


May 19 TASTE-TESTING CONTEST AT THE ICE CREAM STORETaste new homemade flavors and help select which flavors will be featured by The Ice Cream Store during the 2011 summer season. On the boardwalk at Rehoboth Avenue, The Ice Cream Store has been family-owned and operated since 1970. Ice cream samples are free to those who participate in the contest. For more infor-mation on this event, call (302) 227-4609 or visit www.rehobothicecream.com.

May 20 to 22 REHOBOTH-DEWEY SPRING SIDEWALK SALEIt’s a weekend of bargains and deals as you enjoy Rehoboth and Dewey’s unique boutiques and shops in an event so popular that it (and its fall counterpart) won the Chamber of Commerce a Governor’s Tourism Hall of Fame Award. Store hours may vary, but most Downtown Rehoboth Beach and Route 1 weekend sale hours are from 10am to 8pm. For more information, contact the Chamber at (302) 227-2233 or visit their website at www.beach-fun.com

May 22 BEACH DRIVING CLINICFor a full description of this event, see our list-ing on page 112. Call (302) 227-6991 for more information, or visit www.destateparks.com.

May 22 INTRODUCTION TO SURF FISHINGFor more information on this event see our full description on page 112. The class will meet at the Indian River Life-Saving Station. Class size is limited, so pre-register by calling (302) 227-6991. You can also visit www.destateparks.com.

May 29 MASSER 5-MILER AND STRIDERKIDS “I DID IT” RACESHelp kick off the Seashore Strider Champion-ship Series with this 5-mile race starting at 7:30am at the Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes. Visit www.seashorestriders.com or call (302) 644-8952 for more information.

June 4 and 5 SOUTH SIDE SHOOT-OUT SKIMBOARDING CONTEST Watch regional skimmers in a range of divi-sions – from child to adult professional – com-pete for titles as they partake in one of the fastest-growing boardsports at the beach. This event is sanctioned by Dewey Beach-based Skim USA, the largest skimboarding organiza-tion in the world. Visit www.skimusa.org or call (302)227-4011 for more information.

June 5 to June 11 RESTAURANT WEEKDiscover why Rehoboth Beach, the restaurant capital of Delaware, is a top-notch culinary destination as you enjoy seven days of fabulous three-course $20 or $30 prix-fixe meals at more than 20 of its finest eateries. For the names of participating restaurants call (302) 227-2772. June 18 LEWES GARDEN TOURNothing communicates the spirit of summer more beautifully than a garden on the coast. Enjoy a self-guided tour of private gardens in the historic town of Lewes. Stop by the gardens in Zwaanendael Park throughout the day to enjoy music and free lectures on gardening, to watch artists and quilters and to visit vendors. The annual Lewes Garden Tour runs from 10am

to 5pm. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the day of. For information, call (302) 645-8073 or visit www.leweschamber.com.

June 19 FATHER’S DAY 5K RACELace up your running shoes for a Seashore Striders Championship Series race. The Father’s Day 5K starts at 7:30am on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk and Wilmington Avenue. For infor-mation, visit www.seashorestriders.com or call (302) 644-8952.

June 19 to 23 12TH ANNUAL CHAUTAUQUA TENT SHOWA quintessentially American cultural expe-rience, history comes to life during the 12th annual Chautauqua Tent Show. The show will take place at a variety of downtown Lewes locations, including the Zwaanendael Museum, Stango Park and the Lewes Historical Society Complex. A unique mixture of education and entertainment dating back to the 1800s, Chau-tauqua features re-enactors who bring the past to life. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information call (302) 645-1148.

June 25 and 26 MID-ATLANTIC SEA GLASS & COASTAL ARTS FESTIVALPrepare to be awed by the ocean’s jewels as sea glass collectors and exhibitors present their work at the Lewes Historical Society’s Historic Complex, located at Second and Shipcarpenter Street. They will be joined by artisans special-izing in nautical themes. The event runs 10am to 4pm Saturday and 10am to 3pm Sunday. Admission is $5, and children under 12 are free. Call the Historical Society at (302) 645-7670, or visit www.historiclewes.org.

Shadows of a gentle wake glow in the sunset of Breakwater Harbor

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 The view from the grass-covered Rehoboth Flats looking out toward the WWII watch towers.


June 30 to July 17 REHOBOTH ART LEAGUE MEMBERS’ CRAFT SHOWThe best regional artisans give you an oppor-tunity to view their work in this show featuring pottery, ceramics, glass, jewelry, fiber art, wood and metal pieces. Greet the artists at the June 30 opening reception at the League’s 12 Dodd’s Lane complex. Call (302) 227-8408 or go to www.rehobothartleague.org for information.

July 2 BEACH PAPER FIRECRACKER 5K RUN & WALKEnjoy the firecracker race before the fire-works at this Seashore Striders Championship Series race starting 7:30am at Grove Park in Rehoboth Beach. For information, visit www.seashorestriders.com or call (302) 644-8952.

July 3 DAVE REYNOLDS SWIM/RUN BIATHLON Race in memory of beloved lifeguard and role model Dave Reynolds at this Fourth of July weekend event. This half-mile swim followed by a 5K run for individuals or teams takes off at 8am from Baltimore Avenue and the Rehoboth Boardwalk. Visit www.seashorestriders.com or call (302) 644-8952 for more details.

July 4 LEWES CELEBRATES JULY FOURTHBefore heading out for fireworks, enjoy an old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration, Lewes style. The excitement starts on a closed-off Second Street at 9am with classic children’s games that include sack and wheelbarrow races. Beginning at 2pm, patriotically deco-rated boats compete for prizes as they parade along the Rehoboth and Lewes Canal. Finally,

the entire town celebrates with the afternoon Doo-Dah Parade, replete with floats and music. For more information call (302) 645-8073 or visit www.leweschamber.com.

July 4 REHOBOTH BEACH FIREWORKS Celebrate the Fourth with an amazing display of fireworks that annually draws thousands of people to the boardwalk and beach at the base of Rehoboth Avenue. Launched from the beach at approximately 9pm, the spectacular display is visible all along the boardwalk and the shoreline from Dewey Beach to north Rehoboth. Be pre-pared to dance in the street as you enjoy musi-cal entertainment at the bandstand before and after the show. A park-and-ride shuttle service is available for the event. Call (302) 227- 2772 or visit www.downtownrehoboth.com.

July 9 LEWES HISTORICAL SOCIETY CRAFT FAIRThe Lewes Historical Society complex at Ship-carpenter and Second Street is the perfect set-ting for this craft show, featuring over 80 crafts-people exhibiting work in a variety of media. The atmosphere is festive with live music, lovely gardens, food, refreshments and shaded picnic tables. The fair is open from 9am to 4pm. Admission is $5 and children under 12 are free. Call the Historical Society at (302) 645-7670 or visit www.historiclewes.org.

July 9 RUNNING OF THE BULL AT THE STARBOARD Spain has nothing on Dewey Beach in this annual madcap parody of the famous running of the bulls in Pamplona. Thousands of fun-seekers adorned in red gather, party and play at

the famous Starboard Restaurant. Then, in true organized mayhem, they chase two people in a bull costume for blocks along the ocean. Par-ticipants will witness the inevitable confron-tation of bull and matador upon return to The Starboard. Proceeds benefit local police and other charities. For more information about this event, visit www.TheStarboard.com.

July 17 SUICIDE WING EATING CONTESTIf you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen. If you can, check out The Starboard’s annual “Wings-to-Go Suicide Wing Eating Contest,” where dozens of contestants battle to see how many chicken wings covered in suicide sauce they can consume in 30 minutes. With hun-dreds of dollars in prizes, the cheering gets loud and the competition is fierce. For more infor-mation visit TheStarboard.com.

July 22 – August 26 REHOBOTH ART LEAGUE MEMBERS’ FINE ART EXHIBITAdmire some of the best artwork at the beach at this year’s Rehoboth Art League Members’ Fine Art Exhibit, held in the RAL Corkran and Tubbs galleries. This popular event inspires local art-ists to create and present their best work as they compete for awards and professional recogni-tion from a renowned judge. The event is open to the public and runs for an entire month. Call (302) 227-8408 or visit www.rehobo-thartleague.org for more information.

July 31 RUN FOR J.J. 5KRun in memory of former lifeguard J.J. Stein in a race that is known as the fastest 5K field in Delaware. The run is immediately followed by a

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 Although it’s only in your mind, the water always feels warmer as the sun sets

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 Dusk at Rehoboth BeachSprouts and flowers shoot up along the fence of an overgrown farm in Lewes


breakfast in the park. Participants face a tough record to beat – the fastest male time in Dela-ware of 13:52. For more information on this race, visit www.seashorestriders.com or call (302) 644-8952.

August 6 LEWES HISTORICAL SOCIETY ANTIQUES SHOW Admire and acquire some of the Mid-Atlantic region’s most precious antiques at the annual Lewes Historical Society Antiques Show, held at Shipcarpenter and Second Street in Lewes. Antique dealers attract thousands of visitors to the show, which runs from 9am to 4pm. Admis-sion is $5 and children under are 12 free. Call (302) 645-7670 or visit www.historiclewes.org.

August 6 SANDCASTLE CONTESTThe only thing more fun than making sand-castles is joining 800 others as they do the same thing! Compete alongside enthusiastic creators of all ages. The adult and child divisions each have three categories: sandcastle, animal and free form. The top three entries in each category receive a prize package, with special “Smi-ley’s Choice” prizes for the youngest contes-tants. Judging begins at 3pm and winners are announced at 6pm. The event is free and regis-tration begins at 8:30am at the North End of the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk near the Henlopen Hotel. For more details, call (302) 227-2233 or visit www.beach-fun.com.

August 13 WATERMELON FESTIVALIndulge in nostalgia at the third annual Rehoboth Beach Museum Watermelon Fes-tival. The event traces its roots to the 1920s

and 30s when vacationing families purchased melons from hucksters. Without refrigerators, families carved their initials on their purchases to identify them and stored the melons in the community icehouse – which is now home to the Rehoboth Beach Museum. You won’t want to miss the seed-spitting and watermelon-eat-ing contests, the crafts, the refreshments, and, of course, the moon bounce. Admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children and includes a visit to the museum. Call (302) 227-7310 or visit www.rehobothbeachmuseum.org.

August 13 and 14 REHOBOTH ART LEAGUE OUTDOOR FINE ART AND CRAFT SHOWMeander through acres of beautiful trees and gardens while enjoying recent works by some of the finest artists and artisans on the East Coast. Admission is free to this classic summer event that features paintings, glass, pottery, jewelry, drawings, sculpture and more. Children will enjoy clowns and face painting; all will enjoy live music, food and drink. Now in its 38th sea-son, this event runs rain or shine, Saturday and Sunday for two consecutive weekends. Parking is very limited, so you may want to consider the free parking and shuttle service from Coastal Highway. Visit www.rehobothartleague.org or call (302) 227-8408 for more information.

August 13 and 14EAST COAST SKIMBOARDING CHAMPIONSHIPWatch skimboarders hit the Dewey Beach surf in the prestigious 30th annual East Coast Skimboarding Championships. The event is the grand finale of the Zap Pro/Am Tour, a series of major skimboarding events along the East Coast. Competitors include members of Skim

Don’t miss the annual sandcastle contest on August 6

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 A sandpiper skitters across the water’s edge, flitting past the foam in search of food

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER/fall 2011

USA, amateurs and professionals. Proceeds benefit the Skim USA scholarship program. The free event begins at 9am and spectators are encouraged to watch from the beach at Salisbury Street. For more information, visit www.SkimUSA.org or call (302) 227-4011.

August 20 and 21 REHOBOTH ART LEAGUE OUTDOOR FINE ART AND CRAFT SHOWFor more information see our full descrip-tion on page 124. Call (302) 227-8408, or visit www.rehobothartleague.org.

September 3 LAST BLAST PREDICTION 5KPart of the “last blast” of summer, this 5K event starts at 7:30am at Grove Park in Rehoboth Beach and concludes with the Seashore Strid-ers Championship Series Awards Ceremony. For information, visit www.seashorestriders.com, or call (302) 644-8952.

September 10 and 11 NANTICOKE INDIAN POW-WOWImmerse yourself in Native American culture as you attend The Nanticoke Indian Associa-tion’s 34th annual Pow-wow, held a few miles from Rehoboth just outside of Millsboro. The Nanticoke Tribe’s 600+ members are joined by over 40 participating tribes hailing from all over the country, making this the largest pow-wow on the East Coast. Beginning Saturday at noon with a grand entry, 300 performers will enact traditional dances in full regalia. There will be drum music, face painting and more than 50 vendors of Native American crafts and wares. Call (302) 945-3400 for the Nanticoke Indian Center or visit www.nanticokeindians.org for more information.

September 18 CANNONBALL 5K RUN, 1-MILE WALKHelp celebrate Historic Lewes at the annual Cannonball 5K Run. Considered by many to be the most beautiful course in Delaware, the race tours historic Lewes, passing gorgeous canal-front scenery, historic homes, peaceful marshes and lovely architecture. The race ends at the Lewes Historical Society’s Historic Complex in the heart of Lewes. For information, visit Sea-shore Striders at www.seashorestriders.com or call (302) 644-8952. You can also call the Lewes Historical Society at (302) 645-7670.

FallTHERE’S no need to pack your bags and take off for Florida. Fall is arguably the most beau-tiful and interesting time to visit the Delaware beaches — the heavy crowds dissipate, the weather stays warm and the locals start to host lively music and cultural festivals left and right (note: the annual “Punkin Chunkin” is a must). Whether you’re into nature, culture, delicious restaurants or exciting nightlife, you’ve chosen the perfect time to explore what Coastal Dela-ware is all about. Be sure to check out the vari-ety of art shows, musical events, dining oppor-tunities, and sporting events that the area has to offer during the fall months.

September 24 and 25 DELAWARE SEASHORE FALL SURF FISHING CLASSICTest your skills on the shores of Delaware Sea-shore State Park in this individual event with three separate divisions – open, women and children. Judges will be scoring on the beach

and prizes will be given for the overall largest fish and for the largest bluefish. The event is sponsored by the Old Inlet Bait and Tackle Shop. Call them at (302) 227-7974 for information.

September 24 and 25 DEWEY BEACH ELVIS FESTIVALRock and roll with dozens of Elvis imperson-ators from across the country as they perform on two different stages at the Rusty Rudder. Competing for a $5,000 grand prize, each Elvis will do his best to match the look, rhythm and style of the King of Rock and Roll. Don’t miss this popular local tradition. For more informa-tion, call the Rusty Rudder at (302) 227-3888 or visit www.deweybeachlife.com.

September 29 to October 1 DEWEY BEACH MUSIC CONFERENCEJam with more than 125 bands at venues throughout Dewey Beach. Enjoy the fall season as you walk between demonstrations and men-toring sessions, tradeshow meet-and-greet events and band showcases. The event attracts a variety of music groups – famous and under-ground, American and international. The con-ference also offers unique VIP events, including industry cruises on the bay and parties at out-door beach clubs. For more information, visit www.deweybeachfest.com.

October 1 LEWES HISTORICAL SOCIETY CRAFT FAIRThe Lewes Historical Society Complex at Ship-carpenter and Second Street is the perfect set-ting for this craft show, featuring over 80 artists and artisans who will exhibit work in a variety of media. The atmosphere is festive with live music, lovely gardens, food, refreshments and shaded picnic tables. The fair runs from 9am

to 4pm. Admission is $5 and children under 12 are admitted free. Call the Historical Society at (302) 645-7670 or visit www.historiclewes.org. October 1 BOAST THE COAST MARITIME FESTIVAL AND LIGHTED BOAT PARADECelebrate the nautical heritage of Lewes, the first town in the first state, with family and friends. Starting at 11am, the day’s events include free tall ship boat tours, musical enter-tainment, story-telling, lectures, take-away craft projects and delicious seafood specialties. The festival concludes with a marvelous lighted boat parade. Call (302) 645-8073 or go to www.leweschamber.com for information.

October 2 COAST DAYCelebrate the wonders of the sea and wit-ness the importance of Delaware’s coastal treasures as you tour research ships, examine dogfish sharks, compete for prizes and enjoy fresh-cooked seafood. Local families have par-ticipated in this fun-filled day for over 30 years. Cooks especially delight in the annual Crab Cake Cook-Off competition and the annual Seafood Chowder Challenge – a friendly com-petition between two local chef’s associa-tions. Admission is free, and the event runs from 11am to 5pm at the University of Dela-ware’s Hugh R Sharp Campus in Lewes. For more information on this crowd-pleaser, visit www.ceoe.udel.edu/coastday or call either (302) 831-8083 or (302) 645-4346.

October 2 CELEBRITY CHEFS’ BEACH BRUNCHFeast on the cuisine of top area chefs and enjoy fine wines, cocktails and a fabulous silent auc-

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 Someone to watch over youWater winds its way through Wolf Glade along the course of the Junction and Breakwater Trail.

THE SUMMER CAPITAL fall 2011

tion at the eighth annual Celebrity Chefs’ Beach Brunch to benefit Meals on Wheels Delaware. Visit www.beachbrunch.com for more infor-mation about the event.

October 7 to 9 ANNUAL FALL SIDEWALK SALEIt is a weekend for bargains and deals as you enjoy Rehoboth and Dewey’s unique boutiques and shops in an event so popular that it (and its spring counterpart!) won a Chamber of Commerce Governor’s Tourism Hall of Fame Award. Though store hours may vary, most Downtown Rehoboth Beach and Route 1 week-end sale hours are from 10am to 8pm. Contact the Chamber at (302) 227-2233 or by visit their website at www.beach-fun.com. Lewes also has a three-day fall sidewalk sale on the same weekend, which runs from 10am to 5pm.

October 7 to 9 REHOBOTH CHRISTMAS SHOP Share in the Christmas spirit of giving at the annual Rehoboth Christmas Shop. At the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center, shoppers will enjoy raffles, a bake sale, home-cooked lunches, gourmet food gifts, fashion accessories, jewelry, home accents and holiday decorations. Hosted by the Episcopal Church Women of All Saints Church in Rehoboth and Saint George’s Chapel in Harbeson, this event typically raises over $15,000 for area charities that help fami-lies and veterans in need. Call (302) 227-7202, or visit www.allsaintsparish-rehoboth.org for information.

October 8 to 10 GREYHOUNDS REACH THE BEACHThis event should not be underestimated – if you are a greyhound owner or lover, you must

come to Dewey Beach for this popular annual gathering. Owners and their pups travel from across the country to partake in a great vari-ety of educational and recreational events. For details, go to www.adopt-a-greyhound.org.

October 12 to 16 REHOBOTH BEACH AUTUMN JAZZ FESTIVALJam with musicians in venues throughout Rehoboth and Dewey as they keep the sound of jazz alive during the 22nd annual Autumn Jazz Festival. From internationally renowned headline acts at the Rehoboth Beach Conven-tion Center to regional favorites and budding luminaries in intimate clubs and restaurants, everyone is guaranteed to hear sounds that move them. Information and tickets are avail-able online at www.rehobothjazz.com/ajf/. October 28 to 30SEA WITCH HALLOWEEN & FIDDLER’S FESTIVALA must for family fun! Join thousands, including ghosts, ghouls, families, pets, fiddlers, horses and more as they appear in Rehoboth Beach for its 22nd annual Sea Witch Halloween and Fid-dler’s Festival. A fabulous costume parade kicks the event off on Saturday at 11am with prizes, trophies, floats and gigantic balloons. The Fid-dler’s Festival promises traditional foot-stomp-ing, toe-tapping appeal, with prizes awarded to adults and children for the best fiddle, bluegrass and banjo playing. Pets have their own parade on Sunday, and the Rough Riders present musi-cally choreographed performances and drills with their horses on the beach Saturday and Sunday. For more information on this memo-rable event, call (302) 227-2233 or go online to www.beach-fun.com.

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 The costume parade is a fixture in Rehoboth Beach’s annual Sea Witch Festival

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010The Great Marsh Preserve is an expanse of wetlands just north of Historic Downtown Lewes

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 This American Bittern was caught perching on the banks of Silver Lake

THE SUMMER CAPITAL fall/winter 2011

November 27 REHOBOTH BEACH HOLIDAY FARMERS’ MARKETGet fresh wreaths, garlands, fruit baskets, cheese baskets and other seasonal necessities from regional farmers at this special holiday market. The event will be held at Grove Park from noon to 3pm. More information is avail-able at www.rbfarmersmarket.com.

WinterYou came, you fell in love, and you stayed with us through the quiet closing of sum-mer and fall festivities. But fear not: there are still great times to be had at the beach, even in chilly weather. Perhaps you’d like to race into the ocean for a good cause… or maybe you’d enjoy sipping hot chocolate at a festive holiday gathering. Regardless of your interests, there’s always a feisty group of locals nearby who are ready to rock ’n’ roll. You’ll quickly learn (if you haven’t already) that the party never stops at the beach. December 1 LEWES MERCHANTS’ HOSPITALITY NIGHTDelight in the holiday season as local business owners open their doors to the public – after hours, from 6pm to 9pm – for a festive celebra-tion. Indulge in complimentary food and drinks as you browse for holiday gifts and take advan-tage of special discounts. Enjoy the beautiful decorations, musical performances, carolers and drink in the spirit of the holiday season. Visit www.leweschamber.com or call (302) 645-8073 for more information.

December 1 to December 31 REHOBOTH ART LEAGUE HOLIDAY FLAIRFor more information on this event see our description from November 12.

December 2 to 4 CHILDREN’S BEACH HOUSE HOLIDAY ART SHOW Music and art set the stage for the region’s top holiday fundraiser at the Children’s Beach House in Lewes – a non-profit organization dedicated to the social advancement of children with special needs. The show attracts dozens of artists who will display works in a variety of media. The Friday night opening reception includes an artist meet and greet as well as performances by a live pianist and a children’s choir. For more information about the Chil-dren’s Beach House and to purchase event tick-ets, call (302) 645- 9184 or visit www.cbhinc.org. December 3 CHRISTMAS TOUR OF LEWESShare in one of Lewes’s most beloved holiday traditions as you visit historical landmarks, experience the fabric of seafaring history and learn about great architecture on the Christmas Tour of Lewes. The Historical Society’s muse-ums will be open and decorated for the season, as will the Zwaanendael Club and several local churches. The self-guided tour is from 10am to 4pm; for more information, call (302) 645-7670 or visit www.historiclewes.org.

December 3 LEWES CHRISTMAS PARADEExperience the 79th annual Christmas Parade, which starts at 5pm and features many bands as well as floats and local personalities. The parade begins at the Lewes Ninth Grade Acad-

October 30 SEA WITCH 5K FALL CLASSIC RACEEnjoy the 22nd annual run of this 5K race in costume. Cows, witches and other ghoul-ishly creative creatures gather at Rehoboth Beach’s Grove Park for a 9am start. Trophies are awarded for the fastest and for the best dressed. Visit www.seashorestriders.com to learn more, or call (302) 644-8952.

November 4 to 6 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP PUNKIN CHUNKINStarting back in 1986, when four men argued over who could throw a pumpkin the farthest, the Punkin Chunkin has become a national phenomenon — now the subject of books, films and TV specials. Each year, thousands of people flock to an enormous field (approximately 20 miles from the beach) to witness the chaos — and magic — that is flying pumpkins. From its humble beginning in 1986 (four men, launching a pumpkin 126 feet), the event now hosts over 70 teams and boasts a world record pumpkin chuck of 4,483.51 feet! Admire the pumpkin-flinging catapults and contraptions that defy imagination; enjoy the music, food, games and all-around fun. The event is located in nearby Bridgeville and opens daily at 7:30am. Admis-sion is $9 per adult and $2 parking per vehicle. Children under 10 are admitted free. Find more information at www.punkinchunkin.com.

November 9 to 13 REHOBOTH BEACH INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVALShare a passion for film with aficionados from around the country as they convene for the annual Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Fes-tival. A premier Mid-Atlantic cultural event, the

festival features approximately 100 American and international films, including full-length features, documentaries and shorts. Other special events include informative seminars, opportunities to meet celebrity guests, activi-ties for young filmmakers and even a Children’s Cinema Corner for elementary school-aged children. Visit www.rehobothfilm.com or call (302) 645-9095 to learn more.

November 12 to December 31 REHOBOTH ART LEAGUE HOLIDAY FLAIRBurst into the holiday spirit, support local art-ists and find unique gifts for friends and family at the Rehoboth Art League’s annual Holiday Flair. The exhibit features approximately 40 art-ists who present works in all styles and media. The $5 admission fee gives visitors a chance to win items donated by each artist. Lunch is available at the event, which runs from 10am to 4pm on the RAL grounds. Call (302) 227- 8408 or visit www.rehobothartleague.org for more information on this event.

November 25 HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING AND SING-A-LONGBecome part of Rehoboth’s tradition as every-one gathers at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Pavilion for the annual tree-lighting cer-emony. Caroling begins at 6pm and the tree is lit at 7pm. For additional information, call (302) 227- 2772 or (302) 644-2288.

November 26 RUN FOR THE ROSE 5K Race for local charities in this event that attracts hundreds of participants annually. For more information, visit www.seashorestriders.com or call (302) 644-8952.


Mallards are still at home on Silver Lake through the winter freeze.

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 Dark clouds blow in off the water over Cape Henlopen State Park

THE SUMMER CAPITAL winter 2011-12

emy on Savannah Road and ends at King’s Ice Cream Shop at Second and Market Street. Santa arrives to take up residence in his house on Second Street, and immediately following the parade all will convene in the Zwaanendael Park for the Christmas tree lighting and can-dlelight caroling. Call (302) 645-8073 or visit www.leweschamber.com for more information about this and other events in Historic Lewes.

December 4 COMMUNITY UNITY SPAGHETTI DINNERDon’t miss out on this Rehoboth tradition. Share a fantastic all-you-can-eat feast of spa-ghetti, meatballs, salad bar, beverages and awe-some desserts prepared by the famous Nicola’s Pizza and others. Enjoy a craft show, musical entertainment, face painting and, of course, face time with Santa! Running from 4pm to 7pm at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Cen-ter, tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for seniors and kids 12 and up, and free for kids under 12 (with a paying adult). Proceeds from this event benefit Main Street’s programs to protect the future of beautiful Downtown Rehoboth. To learn more, call (302) 227-2772 or visit their website at www.downtownrehoboth.com.

December 5 REHOBOTH BEACH HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS PARADEWelcome the first Monday in December with an annual holiday parade that always features more music, costumes and fun than the year before! Dozens of local groups, bands and participants line up at 4pm. Starting at 6pm, the parade begins at State Road and travels up Rehoboth Avenue and finishes up at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center. For more details on this event, call (302) 441-8615.

December 10 REHOBOTH BEACH SEASHORE MARATHON AND HALF-MARATHONJoin in the race that shows the best Rehoboth Beach and Lewes Beach have to offer. The mar-athon admission fee benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Rehoboth Beach Fire Com-pany. Visit www.rbmarathon.com for more information.

December 31 RACE INTO THE NEW YEAR 5K AND YOUTH RACEWrap up 2011 with a final race through Rehoboth Beach and its environs with the Rehoboth Beach Running Club and the Seashore Striders. The race starts at noon at the Rehoboth Beach Run-ning Company at 251 Rehoboth Avenue. For more information visit www.seashorestriders.com or call (302) 644-8952.

January 1 LEWES POLAR BEAR PLUNGEDozens of brave “plungers” will celebrate the New Year with a splash in the frigid Atlan-tic Ocean. The Lewes Polar Bears, formed in 1982, now plunge five times annually and will meet in the Cape Henlopen State Park to ring in the New Year. This festive event precedes the group’s “official” plunge on February 5t which benefits Special Olympics Delaware. For more information visit www.plungede.org or call the Cape Henlopen State Park at (302) 645-8983.

Early JanuaryNEW YEAR’S NATURE HIKE AROUND THE POINTSearch for beach treasures as you join an expe-rienced guide to hike the Cape Henlopen Point. Learn how the point was formed and why it

closes during the spring. Date changes annu-ally. Contact the Cape Henlopen State Park Seaside Nature Center at (302) 645-6852 or visit www.destateparks.com for an exact date.

JanuaryBATTERY 519 MUSEUM TOUREmbark on a guided tour of a World War II coastal defense gun battery! A historical inter-preter will teach you about the history of Fort Miles as you walk in the footsteps of brave sol-diers. You will also see the updates and reno-vations to this historic site as you learn about plans for the future Fort Miles Historic Area. The tour is limited to 30, and pre-registration is required. Call Cape Henlopen State Park’s Sea-side Nature Center at (302) 645-5852 for more information and an exact date.

JanuaryLANTERN TOUR OF FORT MILESDiscover the fascinating Fort Miles Gun Battery by lantern light with a historical interpreter. You will learn how the brave soldiers at Fort Miles defended our coast during World War II. The tour is limited to 30, and pre-registration is required. Call Cape Henlopen State Park’s Sea-side Nature Center at (302) 645-5852 for more information and an exact date.

JanuaryTHOMPSON ISLAND TRAIL HIKEJoin a park naturalist and search for birds and other wildlife during a hike through the Thomp-son Island Nature Preserve at the Delaware Sea-shore State Park. Hikers will also learn about the Native Americans who lived there. Space is limited, so call (302) 227-6991 to find the exact date and pre-register. There is a charge for each participant.

February 4 and 5 POLAR BEAR PLUNGE WEEKENDJoin in on the crazy, splish-splashing fun at one of the most popular coastal Delaware challenges of the year – the annual Polar Bear Plunge! This unique event, which benefits Spe-cial Olympics Delaware, attracted 2,323 par-ticipants in 2010. They raised over $500,000 for the cause. The actual plunge, which occurs on Sunday, February 5 in Rehoboth Beach, is preceded by a variety of activities on Saturday, including an ice-sculpting contest and a 5K Run to the Plunge. For more information, visit www.plungede.org or call Special Olympics Delaware at (302) 831-3480.

FebruaryBATTERY 519 MUSEUM TOUREmbark on a guided tour of a World War II coastal defense gun battery! A historical inter-preter will teach you about the history of Fort Miles as you walk in the footsteps of soldiers. You will see updates and renovations to the site as you learn the plans for the future. Tours are limited to 30. Pre-registration is required. Call Cape Henlopen’s Seaside Nature Center at (302) 645-5852 for information and dates.

FebruaryLANTERN TOUR OF FORT MILESDiscover the fascinating Fort Miles Gun Battery by lantern light with a historical interpreter. For more information and dates, see our complete description on this page or call (302) 645-5852.

February 12SAILOR VALENTINESLearn a craft developed by sailors in the 1800s. You will mount a beautiful and intricate mosaic of seashells inside a wooden frame or box.

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 Light breaks through the blue-gray gloom shading the Delaware Bay

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010The sun rises over the foamy break of the Atlantic...

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010 ...and sets through the bristling evergreens of Silver Lake

THE SUMMER CAPITAL winter/spring 2012

Pre-registration and a fee for instructions and materials is required. For final dates, contact Delaware Seashore State Park’s Indian River Life-Saving Station at (302) 227-6991.

February 12 VALENTINE’S CHASE AND COUPLES 5K RUNTreat your sweetheart to a 5K run at beautiful Cape Henlopen State Park. Run individually or team up with your partner in male, female or co-ed categories. For race information, visit www.seashorestriders.com.

February 18 WINTER GALABrighten up the winter as you enjoy fabulous food, excellent beverages and rockin’ live music at Dewey Beach’s third annual Winter Gala. Hosted by the iconic Starboard Restaurant and by Dewey Beach Enterprises, the event recognizes and benefits local police and life-guards. More information is available online at www.TheStarboard.com or call (302) 226-1680.

February 18 MERCHANTS’ ATTICBe part of the largest (two-part, indoor!) garage sale at the beach as vendors sell antiques, collect-ibles, second-hand household items and hand-made goods from 9am to 1pm at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Hall. For more information, call the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Cham-ber of Commerce at (302) 227-2233, or visit www.beach-fun.com.

MarchBATTERY 519 MUSEUM TOUREmbark on a guided tour of a World War II coastal defense gun battery. A historical inter-

preter will teach you about the history of Fort Miles as you walk in the footsteps of brave sol-diers. You will also see the updates and reno-vations to this historic site as you learn about plans for the future Fort Miles Historic Area. The tour is limited to 30, and pre-registration is required. Call Cape Henlopen State Park’s Sea-side Nature Center at (302) 645-5852 for dates and more information.

MarchLANTERN TOUR OF FORT MILESDiscover the fascinating Fort Miles Gun Battery by lantern light with a historical interpreter. For more information, see our complete description on page 138 or call (302) 645-5852 for exact dates.

March 3 CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL Chocolate lovers unite at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center for the 20th annual Choco-late Festival! The cost of admission allows you to abandon caution and taste all of the chocolate you wish from 11:30am to 3:30pm…or until the chocolate runs out. Contests and prizes for par-ticipants ensure ample chocolatey treats made by some of the finest bakers, chefs and home-grown chocoholics on the Delaware Coast. For more information, call (302) 227-2772 or visit www.downtownrehoboth.com.

SpringSTEP outside and take a deep breath. It’s spring! The beach is warming up, the restaurants are extending their hours and the bars are serving their delicious summer cocktails once again. Go on — get out there. Fly a kite. Watch some

birds. Run in a race. Do all of the things you’ve been dreaming of in hibernation – the things you know won’t be as much fun in the heat of the summer. Overwhelmed by the possibilities? No problem. We’ve put together yet another list of top-notch suggestions…

Mid-MarchSHAMROCK SHUFFLE 15K & 5KCelebrate Saint Paddy’s Day with the Seashore Striders on the Breakwater-Junction Trail of Cape Henlopen State Park. For a finalized date (likely March 11 or 18) and race information visit www.seashorestriders.com.

March 17 MERCHANT’S ATTIC IIPart two of the event described previously on this page. For information, call The Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce at (302) 227-2233 or visit www.beach-fun.com.

March - JuneEXPLORE NATURE Springtime is a wonderful time to learn about the diverse flora and fauna of coastal southern Delaware. Cape Henlopen State Park’s Seaside Nature Center hosts a range of fun, outdoor and interactive events, as does Delaware Seashore State Park’s Indian River Life-Saving Station. Call (302) 645-6852 or (302) 227-6991, respec-tively, for details.

AprilBATTERY 519 MUSEUM TOUREmbark on a guided tour of a World War II coastal defense gun battery. A historical inter-preter will teach you about the history of Fort Miles as you walk in the footsteps of brave sol-diers. You will also see the updates and reno-

vations to this historic site as you learn about plans for the future Fort Miles Historic Area. The event is limited to 30, and pre-registration is required. Call Cape Henlopen State Park’s Seaside Nature Center at (302) 645-5852 for more information and exact dates.

AprilLANTERN TOUR OF FORT MILESDiscover the fascinating Fort Miles Gun Battery by lantern light with a historical interpreter. For more information, see our complete description on page 138 or call (302) 645-5852 for exact dates.

April 6 GREAT DELAWARE KITE FESTIVALJoin people of all ages as kite flying reaches new heights for spectators and competitors at the annual Great Delaware Kite Festival. Celebrate spring; enjoy kite-flying contests, kite vendors, craft vendors, food and fun. Registration begins at 9am and the events kick off with a youth competition and awards ceremony. Prepare to be awed by the competitions that follow. Cat-egories include adult, stunt kite, and novice. The kite festival is held at the Cape Henlopen State Park from 9am to 4pm; the park charges an entrance fee for vehicles. More information is available by calling (877) 465-3937 or visit-ing www.leweschamber.com.

April 14 SPRING BEACH RIDE AND WALKTake a horse for a beautiful ride on the beach at Cape Henlopen State Park or don your walk-ing shoes and follow afoot during the annual Spring Beach Ride and Walk. The event benefits Southern Delaware Therapeutic and Recre-ational Horseback Riding, Inc., which provides equine-assisted therapy to children and adults


Mallards waddle beneath a Japanese cherry tree as they make their way from the canal

THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010The long, green grasses of Canal Park overlook the Lewes Harbor

THE SUMMER CAPITAL spring 2012

with disabilities. Entrants receive lunch, des-serts, prizes and commemorative T-shirts. Fees are charged for participation and the park’s regular entrance fees apply. For a finalized date and more information, visit www.sdtrhr.com or call (302) 644-1920.

April 14 COUNTRY CHILI COOK-OFFPrepare your taste buds for the best chili South-ern Delaware has to offer at the annual Country Chili Cook-off, a family-oriented, free event. Variety is guaranteed with two chili categories (one for restaurants and another for families) and more than 30 competitors. The Cook-Off starts at noon at the Rusty Rudder in Dewey Beach. Benefiting the American Cancer Soci-ety’s Relay For Life program, the event features continuous live entertainment until 6pm. For more information and a finalized date, call the Rusty Rudder at (302) 227-3888.

Mid-AprilDELAWARE MUSIC FESTIVALKick off another season of music in Dewey Beach and prepare to dance all weekend long as a variety of musical acts rock Dewey Beach during the Delaware Music Festival. The Rusty Rudder, overlooking the bay at 113 Dickinson Street, hosts this rock extravaganza. You can view a complete schedule of events by visiting www.deweybeachfest.com. For finalized dates and more information call (302) 227-3888.

AprilBUILD & FLY A KITE AT DELAWARE SEASHORE STATE PARKLearn to build your own kite then launch it from the beach! The cost of the program includes materials, instruction and a perfect seashore

kite-flying location. The event requires pre-registration and is usually held twice in April. For finalized dates and further information, contact the Indian River Life-Saving Station at (302) 227-6991.

Mid-AprilCAMP REHOBOTH WOMEN’S WEEKENDCelebrating more than a decade of fun and ser-vice, this annual conference for women incor-porates educational workshops that address women’s health, legal, financial and spiritual interests. Concerts, a golf outing, entertain-ment and social events ensure fun for women of all ages. The two-day event usually kicks off on Friday during the second weekend in April. Finalized dates, detailed information, and tick-ets are available by calling (302) 227-5620 or visiting www.beachwomensweek.com.

April 26 to 29 DELMARVA BIRDING WEEKENDLewes, Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach are prime locations to participate in this unique chance to celebrate the mass migration of war-blers, shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors. The weekend combines boat trips, canoe treks and expeditions by foot. Delmarva Low Impact Tourism Experiences and others sponsor the event. For information, call (800) 521-9189 or visit www.delmarvabirdingweekend.org.

April 28FORT MILES: THE WAR YEARS Re-enactors in World War II uniforms bring Fort Miles to life as you experience the sights and sounds of gun demonstrations and tour Fort Miles. For more information, call Cape Henlopen State Park’s Seaside Nature Center at (302) 645-6852 or visit www.destateparks.com.

PAGE Cv THE SUMMER CAPITAL SUMMER 2010Lightship Overfalls in Lewes is on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of only seven remaining lightships open to the public.

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Download - The Summer Capital 2011 - Calendar of Events

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