Summer is in full swing in Greater Wilmington, and with it comes a season packed with festivals, art shows, food events, and cultural celebrations. Whether you're a local looking to make the most of your weekends or a visitor planning a summer escape, there’s no shortage of exciting experiences waiting in Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley. From live music and local eats to vibrant markets and family-friendly fun, this is the perfect time to dive into everything the region has to offer.

July Events  

Delaware Shakespeare Summer Festival: Twelfth Night, O Lo Que Quieras
(July 17 - August 3, 2025) 

Experience the enchantment of Shakespeare under the stars at Rockwood Park with this year's bilingual performance of Twelfth Night, O Lo Que Quieras. Bring your own chair and blanket, settle in with your favorite snacks, and immerse yourself in this timeless tale of violence and justice brought to life in a beautiful outdoor setting. 

Winterthur's Artisan Market
(July 18-20, 2025)

Winterthur Museum's annual Artisan Market welcomes 150 vendors, workshops, wine tastings, signature cocktails, and an open-air farmers market. Guests explore a wide variety of handcrafted goods including jewelry, art, sustainable fashion, gourmet foods, and more, while enjoying live music and wandering through Winterthur’s lush 60-acre garden. 

Newark Food & Brew Fest  
(July 26, 2025) 

The Newark Food & Brew Fest is all about celebrating the unique relationship between the culinary arts and the science of brewing! This event showcases more than 40 beers paired with creative food offerings from a dozen of Newark’s restaurants. Unlike most beer festivals, this event takes place in the restaurants. You travel from restaurant to restaurant to sample the featured brews and tasty dishes. Tickets are not required. This is a pay-as-you-go event.

August Events 

Middletown Olde-Tyme Peach Festival 
(August 16, 2025) 

Celebrate all things peachy at the Middletown Peach Festival! Main Street comes alive with local artists, historical exhibits, music, and of course, delicious peaches. Don't miss the renowned peach pie contest—a highlight for foodies and families alike. 

The August Quarterly Festival 
(August 24 - 31, 2024) 

Join in the historic August Quarterly, the nation's oldest African American religious festival. Starting with a Sunday Service, this weeklong celebration at Tubman Garrett Park features music, storytelling, family activities, and a vibrant showcase of culture and community spirit. 

Delaware Burger Battle
(August 23, 2025) 

Indulge in the savory delights of the Delaware Burger Battle, where local restaurants vie for the title of best burger. Sample gourmet creations while supporting charity, and experience firsthand why this event is a culinary highlight in Wilmington. Tickets to this beloved event sold out within hours this year—so if you missed it, be sure to mark your calendar early next time. It’s definitely one you won’t want to miss!

Arden Fair 
(August 30, 2025) 

Marking its 117th anniversary, the Arden Fair offers a delightful blend of art, antiques, food, music, and family-friendly activities. This unique fair in the artistic enclave of Arden promises a day of exploration and entertainment for all ages. 

September Events 

Historic Odessa Brew Fest 
(September 6, 2025) 

Raise a glass at the Historic Odessa Brewfest, celebrating its 11th year of showcasing the finest craft beers from around the region. Enjoy live music, delicious food options, and unlimited tastings of beers from local and national breweries in the charming setting of historic Odessa. 

Kennett Square Mushroom Festival  
(September 6-7, 2025) 

The Annual Mushroom Festival is a celebration of Kennett Square’s #1 Crop — the mushroom. The Street Fair extends about one mile through town and boasts almost 250 craft and food vendors. Special events include the National Fried Mushroom Eating Championship, the Antique & Classic Car Show, and the Amateur Mushroom Cook-Off. 

Brandywine Festival of the Arts 
(September 6-7, 2025) 

As summer ends, enjoy time well spent at the Brandywine Festival of the Arts, a beloved tradition featuring artists from across the country. Stroll through the streets of Wilmington, explore a diverse range of art styles and mediums, and enjoy live music and entertainment that capture the spirit of creativity. 

Delaware Saengerbund Oktoberfest  
(September 19-21, 2025) 

From the opening oompahs of the Friday night parade until the last bratwurst is gone, the Delaware Saengerbund Oktoberfest is a three-day celebration of German food, culture, and beer.  

Hagley Car Show   
(September 21, 2025)  

Experience the wonders of automotive innovation at the Hagley Car Show. Browse through more than 500 antique and restored cars dating from the late 1990s all the way back to the early 20th century. The show features a vehicle parade, motoring music, and a food court. The theme for Hagley's 2025 Car Show is: Pony Cars (Compact, sporty, highly-styled coupés or convertibles)

Make Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley your go-to summer getaway and dive into a season filled with unforgettable events that highlight the region’s rich culture and community pride. From open-air theater to inspiring art showcases, there's something for every kind of traveler. As you explore, be sure to capture the moments! Share your photos using #VisitWilm and tag @visitwilmingtonde for a chance to be featured on our website, in our travel guide, and across our social media channels.

More Summer Fun!