As if Rehoboth Beach’s annual Sea Witch Festival didn’t already offer a jam-packed weekend of activities, there’s one more event worth adding to your schedule—especially if entertaining the kids or grandkids is on your agenda.
It’s called the Fantasy Trail, and it takes place at Cape Henlopen State Park during Sea Witch weekend, Friday, October 23, through Sunday, October 25. The trail is open from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, making it an easy add-on to other weekend festivities.
The trail begins behind the park’s Nature Center and combines Halloween fun with a refreshing outdoor experience.
Jack-o’-lanterns light the way, casting a mysterious glow along the trail. Costumes are encouraged, and popular storybook characters will be on hand to greet visitors. Along the way, children can stop at various candy stations, so be sure to bring a trick-or-treat bag!
The park offers a few tips to help visitors make the most of their Fantasy Trail experience:
- Dress in layers. Wear a costume with warm layers underneath, as fall evenings can be noticeably cooler than daytime temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes. They’ll make navigating the outdoor terrain easier.
- Bring a trick-or-treat bag. You’ll need it for collecting goodies along the way.
- Bring a camera or phone. Capture the festive atmosphere in photos. Park staff recommend taking pictures before it gets completely dark.
Admission is $7 per person for both adults and children. No advance registration is required. For more information, call the Nature Center at (302) 645-6852 or visit the Delaware Beaches website.
Sea Witch Festival Offers Fun for All Ages
Of course, the main daytime attraction is the Sea Witch Festival in downtown Rehoboth Beach. Organized by the Rehoboth-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce, the festival is celebrating its 36th year.
The weekend features a full slate of activities, including costume parades for people and dogs; the Sea Witch® Hunt; indoor and outdoor artisan and vendor shows; Bubble Boo & Puppies Too!; Tyke Bike; live bandstand entertainment; horse shows on the beach; a 5K race and walk; hayrides; a broom toss; magic shows; lantern tours; the Fantasy Trail; kids’ games on the beach; a kids’ treasure hunt; trick-or-treating; a haunted bonfire; and much more!
The popular people’s parade is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. along Rehoboth Avenue. For a great viewing spot, consider the median near the fire hall. From there, you may be able to catch a second look at the parade as it makes its way back after rounding the turn near the bandstand at the end of Rehoboth Avenue.
The dog parade takes place Sunday on the Boardwalk. It’s a sight to see, especially when owners and their four-legged companions show off matching costumes!
For another great vantage point, head to Above the Dunes, a restaurant on the Boardwalk. Located on the second floor, it offers a panoramic view of the beach and provides a good spot to watch the horse show.
Parking can be scarce during Sea Witch weekend, so festivalgoers are encouraged to take the DART bus.
For additional information about the festival and its activities, contact the Rehoboth-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber’s Visitor Center is located on Rehoboth Avenue near the lighthouse roundabout.
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