Delaware may be small in size, but it packs a big punch when it comes to food festivals. From coastal seafood celebrations to inland agricultural fairs, the First State offers a diverse array of culinary events throughout the year. These festivals showcase the best of Delaware’s local produce, seafood, and culinary traditions.
Food festivals in Delaware provide visitors with unique opportunities to sample regional specialties, meet local chefs and farmers, and experience the state’s rich food culture firsthand. Many events feature live music, cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities alongside an impressive selection of food and drink options. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, Delaware’s food festivals offer something for every palate and preference.
1) Delaware Wine & Beer Festival
The Delaware Wine & Beer Festival stands out as one of the state’s premier food and drink events. Held annually in the fall, this festival celebrates the best of Delaware’s craft beverage scene.
Visitors can sample a wide array of local wines, beers, and spirits from producers across the state. The event typically features dozens of vendors showcasing their unique creations.
Beyond drinks, the festival offers delicious food options from local restaurants and food trucks. Attendees can enjoy live music performances while savoring their beverages and bites.
The festival takes place at the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village in Dover. This picturesque setting provides a charming backdrop for the festivities.
As the only statewide festival for the beer, wine, and spirits industry in Delaware, this event draws thousands of attendees each year. It serves as an excellent opportunity to discover new local favorites.
2) Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival
The Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival is a beloved annual event that takes place in Delaware’s popular coastal town. Chocolate lovers flock to the Atlantic Sands Hotel and Conference Center to indulge in a wide array of decadent treats.
This festival showcases some of the finest chocolate creations from local and regional vendors. Attendees can sample an impressive variety of chocolate confections, from truffles and cakes to more unique offerings.
The event often features celebrity chefs, adding an extra layer of excitement for food enthusiasts. Visitors can watch demonstrations and learn new techniques for working with chocolate.
Beyond satisfying sweet tooths, the Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival serves a noble cause. Proceeds from the event benefit the Harry K Foundation, an organization dedicated to combating childhood hunger in Delaware.
The festival typically occurs in March, providing a delightful prelude to spring. For more information, interested parties can contact Laura Annan Glascoe, the Harry K Foundation Executive Director, at 302-212-8801 or [email protected]
3) Seafood & Arts Festival
The Seafood & Arts Festival in Delaware combines culinary delights with artistic expression. This annual event showcases the state’s rich maritime heritage and creative talent.
Visitors can savor an array of fresh seafood dishes, from succulent crab cakes to steamed clams and oysters on the half shell. Local chefs demonstrate their skills with live cooking demonstrations, offering tips and techniques for preparing seafood.
The festival also features a diverse selection of artwork from Delaware artists. Paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted items inspired by coastal themes are on display and available for purchase.
Live music performances add to the festive atmosphere, with local bands playing a mix of genres throughout the event. Attendees can enjoy their meals while listening to tunes that capture the spirit of Delaware’s coastal communities.
Children’s activities are also part of the festival, including face painting and interactive art projects. This makes the Seafood & Arts Festival a family-friendly event suitable for all ages.
4) Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival
The Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival is a popular annual event showcasing fine arts and crafts. It takes place on the scenic boardwalk of Bethany Beach, Delaware.
The festival typically occurs in September, running from 10 am to 5 pm. In 2024, it is scheduled for September 7th, while the 2025 date is set for September 6th.
Over 100 juried artists participate in the event, displaying a wide range of artistic mediums. Visitors can expect to see paintings, woodwork, metal sculptures, clay creations, jewelry, and porcelain pieces.
The festival offers free admission, making it accessible to all art enthusiasts. Live music and food vendors add to the vibrant atmosphere, creating an enjoyable experience for attendees.
Parking is available near the boardwalk, but arriving early is recommended to secure the best spots. The event attracts many visitors, so planning ahead is advisable.
5) Dover Days Festival
The Dover Days Festival is a cherished annual event in Delaware’s capital city. Held in early May, this festival celebrates Dover’s rich history and culture.
Visitors can indulge in a variety of local food offerings during the festival. Vendors line the streets, serving up Delaware specialties and regional favorites.
The event features a parade, live music performances, and historical reenactments. Attendees can explore colonial-era crafts and participate in guided tours of historic sites.
Food enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, from traditional Delaware dishes to innovative culinary creations. Local restaurants and food trucks offer a diverse array of options.
The festival typically takes place on The Green and Legislative Mall, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Dover. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, making it one of Delaware’s most popular spring events.
For more information: https://www.visitdelaware.com/events/dover-days-festival
6) Nanticoke Indian Powwow
The Nanticoke Indian Powwow is a vibrant cultural event held annually in Milton, Delaware. This two-day celebration showcases traditional Native American music, dance, and food.
Visitors can experience intertribal Native American dancers performing in colorful regalia. The event features both traditional and fancy dance styles, with dance specials offering prize money.
An expansive market offers authentic Native American art, crafts, and jewelry. Food vendors serve up delicious Native American cuisine, including popular items like fry bread and Nanticoke Indian Tacos.
The powwow takes place at Hudson Fields in early September. Gates open at 10 am, with the Grand Entry ceremony starting at noon each day.
In addition to cultural displays, the event includes a Southern Delaware Hot Rod Car Show, adding variety to the festivities.
The Nanticoke Indian Powwow provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Native American culture and cuisine in Delaware.
For more information: Nanticoke Indian Tribe
7) New Castle County Ice Cream Festival
The New Castle County Ice Cream Festival is Delaware’s largest family picnic and a quintessential summer event. Held annually in June at Rockwood Park, this festival celebrates the sweet treat that everyone loves – ice cream.
Visitors can indulge in a variety of frozen delights from local ice cream vendors and food trucks. The festival offers more than just desserts, with BBQ, Indian food, and crab cakes also available.
Live local music adds to the festive atmosphere, while kids’ activities and carnival games keep younger attendees entertained. Adults can browse the maker market for handmade crafts and unique items.
History enthusiasts can enjoy tours of the Rockwood Museum, providing a glimpse into the area’s past. As night falls, the sky lights up with a spectacular fireworks display, capping off a perfect summer day.
The event typically attracts between 5,000 to 15,000 visitors, making it one of Delaware’s most popular food festivals. It’s a celebration of community, history, and of course, ice cream.
For more information: https://www.newcastlede.gov/2061/Ice-Cream-Festival
8) Apple Scrapple Festival
The Apple Scrapple Festival in Bridgeville, Delaware celebrates two beloved local foods: apples and scrapple. This unique event has been delighting visitors since 1992 with its mix of culinary treats and family-friendly activities.
Held annually in October, the festival showcases the best of Delaware’s agricultural heritage. Attendees can savor apple-based delicacies like cider donuts, fresh apple cider, and apple butter alongside traditional scrapple dishes.
The festival grounds feature a bustling food court, carnival rides, and an entertainment stage. Visitors can browse craft vendors, enjoy live music, and participate in various competitions.
Friday evening kicks off with an opening ceremony, followed by the Little Miss Apple Scrapple Pageant and a street dance. Saturday offers a full day of festivities from morning until night.
Car enthusiasts can admire the festival’s car show, while families enjoy free parking and admission. The Apple Scrapple Festival provides a true taste of Delaware’s culinary culture and community spirit.
9) Wilmington Flower Market
The Wilmington Flower Market is a beloved Delaware tradition held annually in May. This three-day event takes place in Rockford Park on the Thursday, Friday, and Saturday before Mother’s Day.
While flowers are the main attraction, the festival offers much more. Visitors can enjoy a beer garden, food trucks, and concession stands serving a variety of delicious treats.
The market features craft tents, carnival rides, and games for all ages. Live entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a fun outing for families and friends.
This admission-free extravaganza has a long history of supporting children’s charities. Over the years, it has raised more than $8 million for worthy causes in Delaware.
The Wilmington Flower Market combines the beauty of spring blooms with the excitement of a community festival. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy good food, entertainment, and support local organizations.
10) Firefly Music Festival
Firefly Music Festival is a major annual event held in Dover, Delaware. Although primarily focused on music, it offers an impressive array of food options that make it a notable culinary destination as well.
The festival features numerous food vendors and trucks, providing a diverse selection of cuisines. Attendees can sample everything from classic festival fare to gourmet dishes prepared by local and regional chefs.
Firefly’s food offerings cater to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. This ensures that all festival-goers can find something delicious to enjoy between musical performances.
The event also showcases Delaware’s local flavors, with many vendors featuring regional specialties and ingredients. This gives visitors a taste of the state’s culinary heritage alongside the music.
Firefly typically takes place in June, spanning four days. The combination of top musical acts and excellent food options has made it one of Delaware’s most anticipated annual events.
Cultural Significance of Delaware Food Festivals
Food festivals in Delaware serve as vibrant celebrations of the state’s culinary heritage and cultural diversity. These events bring communities together, fostering a sense of pride and shared identity among residents.
Many festivals highlight Delaware’s agricultural roots, showcasing local produce, seafood, and traditional dishes. The Apple Scrapple Festival, for instance, pays homage to two of the state’s most iconic foods.
These gatherings also play a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural traditions. The Holy Trinity Greek Festival and St. Anthony’s Italian Festival allow visitors to experience authentic ethnic cuisines and customs.
Delaware’s food festivals contribute significantly to the local economy. They attract tourists, boost small businesses, and support local farmers and food producers.
For many Delawareans, these events mark important dates on the calendar, becoming cherished annual traditions. Families and friends gather to enjoy good food, music, and entertainment.
Food festivals also serve as platforms for culinary innovation. Local chefs often use these events to showcase new creations, blending traditional Delaware flavors with modern techniques.
By celebrating the state’s diverse culinary landscape, these festivals help strengthen Delaware’s cultural identity and foster a deeper appreciation for its food heritage.
Impact on Local Economy
Food festivals in Delaware significantly boost the state’s economy through increased business activity and tourism. These events create ripple effects that benefit many sectors.
Boost to Local Businesses
Food festivals provide a platform for local vendors to showcase their products and expand their customer base. Restaurants, food trucks, and artisanal producers often see a surge in sales during these events.
Many participants report increased foot traffic and revenue in the days and weeks following festivals. This exposure can lead to long-term business growth and job creation within the community.
Local farmers and producers also benefit from increased demand for their products, as festivals often prioritize sourcing ingredients locally.
Tourism and Hospitality
Delaware’s food festivals attract visitors from neighboring states, driving tourism and filling hotels. These events can extend the tourist season, bringing economic activity during traditionally slower periods.
Visitors often explore local attractions, shops, and restaurants beyond the festival grounds, spreading economic benefits throughout the region. Transportation services, such as taxis and rideshares, see increased demand during festival periods.
The positive experiences at food festivals can encourage repeat visits, building Delaware’s reputation as a culinary destination. This reputation boost can attract food-focused travelers year-round, further supporting the local economy.
Seasonal Highlights
Delaware’s food festivals offer a year-round culinary journey, showcasing the state’s diverse flavors and agricultural bounty. These events celebrate local ingredients, traditional dishes, and innovative cuisine across different seasons.
Spring and Summer Festivals
The Holy Trinity Greek Festival kicks off the summer season in June, bringing authentic Greek cuisine to Delaware. Visitors can savor traditional dishes in the cafeteria-style dining room or grab takeout from the booth. This long-running event has been delighting food enthusiasts for nearly five decades.
Following closely is St. Anthony’s Italian Festival, typically held back-to-back with the Greek Festival. This celebration of Italian culture and cuisine offers a wide array of pasta, pizza, and other Italian specialties.
Summer also brings beer gardens and food trucks to various events across the state. These mobile culinary experiences provide a diverse range of flavors and styles, from gourmet burgers to artisanal ice cream.
Fall and Winter Celebrations
As autumn arrives, Bridgeville hosts its annual Apple-Scrapple Festival in October. This unique event, running since 1992, highlights two of Delaware’s beloved products: apples and scrapple. Visitors can taste a variety of apple-based treats and sample scrapple from the local RAPA Scrapple factory.
The festival showcases the best of Delaware agriculture, featuring locally grown produce and regionally produced meats. It’s a prime opportunity to experience the state’s farm-to-table offerings and traditional foods.
Winter festivals often feature hearty comfort foods and seasonal specialties. These events may include warming soups, festive baked goods, and hot beverages to combat the chill. Many winter celebrations also incorporate holiday themes, offering traditional seasonal dishes and treats.
