Instead of thinking of Labor Day as the end of summer, why not consider it the kickoff to another wonderful season here in Sussex County? Fall brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds and plenty of opportunities to get out, enjoy our coastal communities, support local organizations and artists, and make the most of life in retirement.
After a busy summer, it’s nice to have a little more breathing room on the roads while still having plenty to see and do. Here are a few fall festivals and events to put on your calendar.
Lewes Artists Studio Tour
Although the Lewes Artists Studio Tour (LAST) is not actually a festival, it arguably offers one of the most unique opportunities to view local artists’ creations in the area. The tour is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 19.
Here’s how it works: A map of all the studios is posted on the Studio Tour website, along with a list of participating artists and thumbnail photos showing the types of work they create. Participants drive from one location to another and can decide what order works best for them. Five of the locations are within walking distance of one another in Historic Lewes, while the remaining studios are nearby but not within walking distance.
Most of the studios are located in the artists’ homes, making the tour an especially interesting way to see both what they create and where they live. The locations feature a wide range of art, from pottery and quilt making to woodcut printing, watercolor, silk screening, pastels, oils and acrylics.
For anyone who enjoys art—or simply likes discovering the creative side of the local community—the Studio Tour is a wonderful way to spend a fall Saturday.
Coast Day and Boast the Coast in Lewes
On Sunday, October 4, head to Lewes for Coast Day and its companion event, Boast the Coast.
Coast Day is an annual celebration presented by the University of Delaware’s College of Earth, Ocean and Environment. University students, faculty, staff and community partners will share information about their work to protect our coastal environment and serve the local community. It’s an interesting—and often eye-opening—way to learn more about the place we are fortunate enough to call home.
Boast the Coast began in 1996 as a celebration of Lewes’ nautical heritage and complements the University of Delaware’s annual Coast Day. The festival offers plenty of free activities, including boat tours, face painting and live music.
There’s something for almost everyone, with the Lewes Merchants’ Fall Sidewalk Sale, the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, craft festivals, art exhibits and concerts all adding to the weekend’s appeal.
Jazz in Rehoboth Beach
Music lovers have plenty to look forward to this fall, as Rehoboth Beach is home to not one but two jazz festivals, with the events partially overlapping.
The 14th annual True Blue Jazz Festival is scheduled for October 14–18, with many events taking place at the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel on Olive Avenue.
The festival was the brainchild of Nassau Valley Winery owner Peggy Raley and her husband, Eddie Sherman, lead singer for The Funsters. Over the years, it has become a popular gathering for jazz fans from near and far.
The Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival follows closely on its heels, taking place October 15–18. More than 30 artists will perform at multiple venues in Rehoboth Beach and Lewes, including the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center, the Rusty Rudder, Epworth Church, the Cambria Hotel, the Cape Henlopen Performing Arts Center and the Lewes Farmers Market.
Whether you are a longtime jazz enthusiast or simply looking for an enjoyable evening out with friends, fall is a great time to take advantage of the area’s vibrant music scene.
Sea Witch Festival
And then there’s the biggest fall celebration of them all—the annual Sea Witch Festival in Rehoboth Beach, October 23–25.
The main costume parade takes place Saturday along Rehoboth Avenue. With the parade drawing as many as 100,000 spectators in the past, arriving early is a wise idea. And don’t forget about the four-legged participants! The popular “Doggie Parade” takes place on the Boardwalk on Sunday.
Throughout the weekend, you can enjoy live music at the Bandstand, magic shows, artisan and vendor markets, and plenty of Halloween-themed fun.
Sea Witch is organized by and serves as a major fundraiser for the Rehoboth Beach–Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce. So while you’re enjoying the festivities, you’re also helping support the local community.
Enjoy the Season
One of the best things about fall at the Delaware beaches is that the season doesn’t mean the fun has to end. With cooler days, fewer summer crowds and a full calendar of festivals, music, art and community events, autumn is a wonderful time to get out and explore.
So grab a friend, invite the grandchildren, or simply head out on your own. There’s still plenty of life, laughter and local flavor to enjoy—and hopefully, just a little less traffic along the way!
By Mary Jo Tarallo, Resident Journalist
Mary Jo Tarallo spent much of her career in public relations with various non-profits and spent 40 years involved with the ski industry as a journalist, public relations director for a national trade association and as executive director of the Learn to Ski and Snowboard initiative. Prior to her ski industry involvement she worked for the Maryland International Center in Baltimore and United Way of Central Maryland. She won a Gold Award for TV programming for a United Way simulcast that starred Oprah Winfrey. She has been cited for her work by numerous organizations. Mary Jo grew up in Baltimore, attended the University of Maryland and Towson University, lived in Washington, DC for 21 years and has been a full time resident of Rehoboth Beach and Milton since May 2019.
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