Lewes 250 Events
Celebrate America’s 250th with the First Town in the First State
Live Music
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Fireworks
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Local Art Shows
★
Historical Celebrations
★
Liberty Tree Planting
★
Bonfires
★
Live Music ★ Fireworks ★ Local Art Shows ★ Historical Celebrations ★ Liberty Tree Planting ★ Bonfires ★
Celebrate 250 Years of History, Community, and Pride
Join us as Lewes commemorates America’s 250th anniversary with a yearlong series of events honoring our town’s rich past and bright future. From parades and art exhibits to concerts, lectures, and community gatherings, Lewes 250 brings neighbors, visitors, and local organizations together in celebration of the “First Town in the First State.”
Explore the calendar below to discover upcoming events, and be part of the story as we mark this once-in-a-lifetime milestone for Lewes and our nation.
List of Lewes 250 events
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
Enemies, Foreign and Domestic: A Fireside Chat
Join living historians from the Zwaanendael and Fort Miles Museums for a moderated "Fireside Chat" about the shared challenges, similarities and differences in the command roles of Loyalist and National Guard officers from Delaware in the American Revolution and WWII.
Programs begin at the Officer's Club.
Space is limited, please call (302) 644-5007 to pre-register.
FREE with park entrance fees.
Shanty Night with Historic Lewes
Shanty Night at the Sussex Tavern is a monthly event full of time travelling adventure! Join us every third Friday evening to experience epic singing, cheering, ranting and raving like true British sailors would.
The third Friday of every month.
Admission: Free, drinks not included.
Day of Gratitude
Celebrating Lewes, Our Community & America
A Day to Give Thanks
As we conclude a remarkable year celebrating America's 250th anniversary, Lewes 250 invites our community to come together for a Day of Gratitude.
Join us for a day of reflection, generosity, and connection as we celebrate the people, places, and traditions that make Lewes so special.
One community. Countless reasons to be grateful.
Share Your Gratitude
What makes you grateful to call Lewes home?
Stop by the Net House at Canalfront Park to share your thoughts on a gratitude tag. Enjoy light refreshments, meet members of the Lewes 250 team and City Council, and help us celebrate the community we call home.
A Day of Gratitude: Schedule & Activities
There are many ways to participate in the Day of Gratitude. Join us for one activity or spend the day celebrating and giving back to our community.
8:00 – 10:00 AM | Morning Gratitude Gathering
Net House | Front Street, Lewes
Start your day with free coffee, breakfast goodies, and opportunities to connect with the community.
Complete a gratitude card to be displayed at the Net House.
Visit the Beebe Healthcare Mobile Unit for on-site health screenings.
Meet representatives from PAWS for People.
With a special performance by the Cape Henlopen High School Choral Group from 9:15 – 9:30AM
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Give Back at the Farmers Market
Historic Lewes Farmers Market | Lewes Elementary School Parking Lot
Support local farmers while helping neighbors in need! Purchase fresh, locally grown food to donate to area food pantries. It's a win for our farmers, our community, and the families who benefit.
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Community Donation Drive
Lewes Public Library
Drop off paper goods and personal hygiene products to support those in need. The library's Roots & Shoots team will package donations for distribution to local shelters and public restrooms throughout Lewes.
12:00 PM | Gratitude Service
St. Peter's Episcopal Church
Gather for a special service dedicated to gratitude, reflection, and appreciation for our community.
2:00 – 4:00 PM | Coastal Concerts Food Drive
Bethel United Methodist Church, Lewes
Help fight food insecurity by bringing non-perishable food donations to benefit the Cape Henlopen Food Basket.
4:00 – 6:00 PM | Community Celebration
Historic Lewes Campus
Wrap up the Day of Gratitude with an afternoon of live music, community connections, and celebration! Enjoy a special drink created for the occasion at Sussex Tavern and connect with participating organizations.
Community Activities & Organizations:
MERR Institute – Learn about protecting and appreciating our beaches.
Overfalls Foundation – Support the Books & Benches Drive for its Free Children's Library.
Delaware Sea Grant – Create your own button celebrating our marine environment.
Code Purple & Tharros Village – Learn about efforts to provide winter shelter and meals for adults experiencing homelessness.
Additional community organizations and activities!
Live Entertainment:
4:00 – 4:30 PM | Cape Henlopen Jazz Combo
4:30 – 5:30 PM | The Jazzmen featuring vocalist Meg Clifton
5:30 – 6:00 PM | Cape Henlopen Jazz Combo
With Gratitude, Lewes
Throughout 2026, we've celebrated our history, honored our traditions, and come together as a community. As America's 250th anniversary year draws to a close, we thank everyone who helped make it memorable.
Let's continue that spirit of gratitude, generosity, and connection for years to come.
- The Lewes 250 Team
& A Special Thank You to Our Community Partners
This celebration is made possible by the local businesses, nonprofits, and organizations that make Lewes such a special place to call home.
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
Enemies, Foreign and Domestic: A Fireside Chat
Join living historians from the Zwaanendael and Fort Miles Museums for a moderated "Fireside Chat" about the shared challenges, similarities and differences in the command roles of Loyalist and National Guard officers from Delaware in the American Revolution and WWII.
Programs begin at the Officer's Club.
Space is limited, please call (302) 644-5007 to pre-register.
FREE with park entrance fees.
Coastal Concerts Presents: Ji Su Jung & Timothy Chooi
An Afternoon of Musical Artistry in Lewes
Experience the beautiful combination of marimba and violin as Coastal Concerts welcomes Ji Su Jung and Timothy Chooi to downtown Lewes!
Bringing together the warm, resonant sounds of the marimba and the expressive melodies of the violin, this performance offers a unique musical experience. Discover how these two distinctive instruments complement one another in an afternoon celebrating creativity, musical talent, and the performing arts.
Part of Coastal Concerts' 2026–2027 season, this concert is another opportunity to enjoy world-class classical music in the heart of historic Lewes.
Tickets & Event Information
Join Coastal Concerts for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating musical excellence, creativity, and the arts.
Tickets are available now! Visit www.coastalconcerts.org for tickets and additional information.
All Coastal Concerts performances take place at Bethel Fellowship Hall in downtown Lewes.
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
Historic Lewes FIRST FRIDAY Community Nights
Experience a taste of what Historic Lewes has to offer our community on First Fridays! Each month visit the Sussex Tavern for a colonial-inspired beverage, stop into the Lewistown Coffee-house for a taste of the Revolution, browse the Historic Lewes Antique Shop, listen to live music, take a tour, and enjoy stories from bygone times…all in the beautiful setting of our Historic Lewes Town Campus. Our community nights are FREE to attend!
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Shipcarpenter Street
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
53rd Annual Holiday House Tours
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at the 53rd Annual Holiday House Tour of Lewes on Saturday, December 5, 2026.
Step inside eight beautifully decorated private homes, each with its own unique story and holiday charm. Explore treasured historic buildings, iconic Lewes destinations and experience the charm of Lewes dressed for the holidays.
Enjoy our FREE Historic Lewes Holiday Village & Market filled with seasonal cheer, festive shopping and timeless holiday traditions.
The House Tour is a ticked event and you are able to explore at your own pace! Visit the homes in any order you choose throughout the day and enjoy a memorable holiday experience in the heart of Lewes.
For more details and to purchase tickets, please visit Historic Lewes.
Shanty Night with Historic Lewes
Shanty Night at the Sussex Tavern is a monthly event full of time travelling adventure! Join us every third Friday evening to experience epic singing, cheering, ranting and raving like true British sailors would.
The third Friday of every month.
Admission: Free, drinks not included.
Coastal Concerts Presents: American String Quartet
Timeless Music. Extraordinary Talent.
Join Coastal Concerts for an afternoon of classical music featuring the American String Quartet!
Featuring two violins, viola, and cello, this talented ensemble brings the rich harmonies and timeless beauty of string quartet music to downtown Lewes.
Whether you're a longtime classical music enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable cultural experience, this performance offers an opportunity to enjoy the artistry of live chamber music in an intimate setting.
Celebrate the arts and experience world-class music right here in the First Town in the First State!
Tickets & Event Information
Join Coastal Concerts for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating musical excellence, creativity, and the arts.
Tickets are available now! Visit www.coastalconcerts.org for tickets and additional information.
All Coastal Concerts performances take place at Bethel Fellowship Hall in downtown Lewes.
Dressed for Defense
Celebrate Veterans Day as living historians bring to life some of the many generations of soldiers once stationed at what is now Cape Henlopen State Park. Event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Fort Miles Museum is free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Registration is not required. To learn more call (302) 644-5007.
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
Historic Lewes FIRST FRIDAY Community Nights
Experience a taste of what Historic Lewes has to offer our community on First Fridays! Each month visit the Sussex Tavern for a colonial-inspired beverage, stop into the Lewistown Coffee-house for a taste of the Revolution, browse the Historic Lewes Antique Shop, listen to live music, take a tour, and enjoy stories from bygone times…all in the beautiful setting of our Historic Lewes Town Campus. Our community nights are FREE to attend!
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Shipcarpenter Street
Election Day 2026
Your Voice. Your Vote. Your Community.
As we commemorate America's 250th anniversary, Election Day serves as an important reminder of the rights and responsibilities that shape our democracy.
Lewes residents are encouraged to participate in the democratic process by casting their ballots and making their voices heard.
Whether you're voting for the first time or have participated in elections for decades, every vote is an opportunity to take part in our nation's continuing story.
Make a plan to vote and be part of history.
The 1776 Delaware Declaration of Rights
Thoughts on the 1776 Delaware Declaration of Rights: Justice Gary Traynor and Ron Collins
Delaware’s 1776 Declaration of Rights was a bold statement of independence that helped lay the groundwork for the state’s identity, government, and legal principles.
Join Delaware Supreme Court Justice Gary Traynor and Ron Collins for a thoughtful conversation exploring the historical and legal significance of the 1776 Delaware Declaration of Rights, its role in shaping Delaware, and its lasting influence today.
Registration required through the Lewes Public Library.
This event is free and open to the public.
Location: Lewes Public Library
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
Ghostship Overfalls: Haunted Tours
Step aboard… if you dare!
This Halloween season, the historic Lightship Overfalls takes on a haunting new atmosphere! Experience an evening of history, mystery, and maritime legends as you explore the ship after dark.
Discover the eerie side of this iconic Lewes landmark, where chilling tales and nautical history come together for a spooky experience aboard the Ghostship Overfalls.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, a Halloween lover, or simply brave enough to venture aboard, this haunted tour promises a memorable evening.
History. Mystery. Legend. Are you brave enough?
Farming to Feed Delaware
Presented by the Historic Lewes Farmers Market in partnership with Lewes250
Join us for a special panel discussion exploring the past, present, and future of Delaware agriculture, with a focus on the important role vegetable and fruit farming plays in feeding our communities.
The conversation will feature historian Russ McCabe, former Delaware Secretary of Agriculture Ed Kee, and current Delaware Secretary of Agriculture Don Clifton, along with farmers Henry Bennett, Taieshia Hyacinth, and Jena Murray.
Together, they’ll discuss Delaware’s farming history, what it takes to grow the food that feeds our communities today, and the future of small-scale agriculture across the state.
Ticket reservations are to estimate the number of attendees. This is a FREE event.
Coastal Concerts Presents: Awadagin Pratt
World-Class Classical Music Comes to Lewes!
Experience an afternoon of extraordinary music as Coastal Concerts welcomes acclaimed pianist Awadagin Pratt to downtown Lewes!
Having performed at Carnegie Hall, Pratt is celebrated for his remarkable artistry and commitment to bringing diverse musical voices to the stage. Through his performances, he honors the creativity of the past and present while inspiring the next generation of innovative musicians.
As part of Coastal Concerts' 2026–2027 season, featuring six performances from October through April, this special concert offers an opportunity to experience world-class classical music right here in historic Lewes.
Tickets & Event Information
Join Coastal Concerts for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating musical excellence, creativity, and the arts.
Tickets are available now! Visit www.coastalconcerts.org for tickets and additional information.
All Coastal Concerts performances take place at Bethel Fellowship Hall in downtown Lewes.
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
Harvest Festival 1776 with Historic Lewes
Historic Lewes’ Harvest Festival 1776
Stay tuned for more details!
Harvest Festival 1776 with Historic Lewes
Historic Lewes’ Harvest Festival 1776
Stay tuned for more details!
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
Shanty Night with Historic Lewes
Shanty Night at the Sussex Tavern is a monthly event full of time travelling adventure! Join us every third Friday evening to experience epic singing, cheering, ranting and raving like true British sailors would.
The third Friday of every month.
Admission: Free, drinks not included.
“Bridging the Promise” Girl Scouts Then and Now
Join the Lewes African American Heritage Commission and Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay for “Bridging the Promise: Girl Scouts Then & Now,” a meaningful intergenerational gathering honoring the early 1960s segregated Black Girl Scout troops of Lewes.
This special evening will celebrate their stories and legacy while connecting their experiences with today’s generation of Girl Scouts. Together, we’ll honor local history, celebrate progress, and bridge generations through the enduring spirit of Girl Scouting.
Registration is now open. Registration helps organizers plan for seating and refreshments but is not required to attend.
Revolutionary Mariners
Lewes Maritime Museum:
Revolutionary Mariners-Lewistown & the American War of Independence at Sea
Stay tuned for more details!
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
BOAST THE COAST MARITIME FESTIVAL
Boast the Coast Maritime Festival celebrates Lewes’ Historic and Nautical Heritage. Dutch seamen landed in Lewes in 1631 and established the first settlement. Consequently, Lewes is known as the “First Town in the First State.”
This year’s Boast the Coast, hosted by the Lewes Chamber of Commerce, takes place on Saturday, October 3 with free activities in 1812 Park from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. We’ll celebrate America’s 250 th by giving away free flags to the first 100 attendees. 1812 Park overlooks the Lewes Rehoboth Canal with a public dock adjacent to the park.
On the day of the event, Freedom Boat Club offers free boat rides on the canal, giving attendees an opportunity to see Lewes from a different perspective. Free facepainting and musical entertainment also take place in the park. Cape Water Tours offers an hour-long, ticketed Nautical History Tour. Both the History Tour and the Freedom Boat rides depart from the City Dock.
There are other activities in Lewes associated with Boast the Coast including free tours of the Lightship Overfalls and the Lewes Historical Society’s Cannonball House, both a short walk from 1812 Park.
Parking at 1812 Park and the historic business district is metered.
Parking at the Lightship Overfalls is free.
There are no food trucks at Boast the Coast but there are numerous restaurants within walking distance of the activities.
The following day, the University of Delaware hosts Coast Day, also a nautically-themed event, offering activities at their Lewes campus. The University and the Lewes Chamber jointly market the two events as a Maritime Weekend. Coast Day has food trucks.
Loyalist on the Lawn
Visit the encampment of an American Loyalist on the lawn of the Zwaanendael Museum. Visitors will meet our costumed historian portraying an officer of the Loyal American Regiment, and learn about the uniforms, equipment and life of a Loyalist from Lewes during the Revolutionary War.
Guest of all ages can also enjoy a free activity or craft, and visit the museum at no cost.
Historic Lewes Farmers market
Fall Market
Join us for the Fall Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your autumn gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the harvest season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Lewes Elementary School Parking
Historic Lewes FIRST FRIDAY Community Nights
Experience a taste of what Historic Lewes has to offer our community on First Fridays! Each month visit the Sussex Tavern for a colonial-inspired beverage, stop into the Lewistown Coffee-house for a taste of the Revolution, browse the Historic Lewes Antique Shop, listen to live music, take a tour, and enjoy stories from bygone times…all in the beautiful setting of our Historic Lewes Town Campus. Our community nights are FREE to attend!
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: Shipcarpenter Street
Tenth Annual History Book Festival
Come “find your place in history” with us at the History Book Festival, celebrating a weekend and beyond of learning, inspiration, and community!
The History Book Festival is the only book festival dedicated to history through story, showcasing new historical fiction and narrative nonfiction from multiple subjects, eras, and voices. Over 90% of HBF’s author presentations are free and open to all, drawing readers from 30 states and abroad to this singular event at the Delaware beaches in historic Lewes. HBF authors also visit classrooms in Delaware, from preschool to college. HBF provides their books to schools, libraries, and community organizations, engaging and inspiring people of all ages to read, think, and talk about history.
Sign up forHBF’s eNews here: https://www.historybookfestival.org/subscribe
Location: The festival takes place at various locations in Lewes, Delaware.
Time: Details Coming Soon
Tenth Annual History Book Festival
Come “find your place in history” with us at the History Book Festival, celebrating a weekend and beyond of learning, inspiration, and community!
The History Book Festival is the only book festival dedicated to history through story, showcasing new historical fiction and narrative nonfiction from multiple subjects, eras, and voices. Over 90% of HBF’s author presentations are free and open to all, drawing readers from 30 states and abroad to this singular event at the Delaware beaches in historic Lewes. HBF authors also visit classrooms in Delaware, from preschool to college. HBF provides their books to schools, libraries, and community organizations, engaging and inspiring people of all ages to read, think, and talk about history.
Saturday, September 26 features free presentations by HBF authors. The Keynote and Closing events are ticketed. HBF eNews subscribers get early access to 2026 Keynote and Closing event tickets in late June, along with a first look at the other 2026 books/authors. Keynote and Closing events will be announced to the general public in early July, if tickets remain.
Sign up forHBF’s eNews here: https://www.historybookfestival.org/subscribe
Location: The festival takes place at various locations in Lewes, Delaware.
Time: Details Coming Soon
Historic Lewes Summer Farmers market
Summer farmers Market
Join us for the Summer Market with the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, featuring local farmers growers, and makers. Stock up on seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, flowers, and more—just in time for your season gatherings. Enjoy community spirit, fresh flavors, and the charm of Lewes’ local agriculture as we celebrate the season.
The Historic Lewes Farmers Market (HLFM) is a nonprofit organization that manages community-based, producer-only farmers markets. Started in the summer of 2006 by a group of volunteers, the Market has expanded to 40 plus vendors.
Admission: Free and open to the public
Location: George H. P. Smith Memorial Park
Tenth Annual History Book Festival
Come “find your place in history” with us at the History Book Festival, celebrating a weekend and beyond of learning, inspiration, and community!
The History Book Festival is the only book festival dedicated to history through story, showcasing new historical fiction and narrative nonfiction from multiple subjects, eras, and voices. Over 90% of HBF’s author presentations are free and open to all, drawing readers from 30 states and abroad to this singular event at the Delaware beaches in historic Lewes. HBF authors also visit classrooms in Delaware, from preschool to college. HBF provides their books to schools, libraries, and community organizations, engaging and inspiring people of all ages to read, think, and talk about history.
Sign up forHBF’s eNews here: https://www.historybookfestival.org/subscribe
Location: The festival takes place at various locations in Lewes, Delaware.
Time: Details Coming Soon
Antique Auto Revival Glidden Tour
A Rolling Piece of American History Comes to Lewes
A rolling piece of American history is making its way to Coastal Delaware this September as the Antique Auto Revival Glidden Tour arrives in Lewes for two unforgettable days of vintage automobiles, local history, and waterfront charm.
This nationally recognized tour brings approximately 150 beautifully preserved pre–World War II vehicles through the region as part of a 5-day, 500-mile journey celebrating the evolution of the American automobile and the spirit of early American travel.
Event Details
September 21 & 24, 2026
All Day
Locations Across Lewes:
Lightship Overfalls
Historic Lewes Complex
Fort Miles
What to Expect
Over the course of both event days, antique automobiles will travel from Dover into Lewes before dividing into rotating groups throughout town.
Visitors can expect:
Approximately 150 pre-WWII vintage automobiles
Rotating vehicle displays at multiple historic Lewes locations
Ferry crossings between Lewes and Cape May
Opportunities to experience different collections of vehicles throughout the day
A rare chance to see automotive history actively touring Coastal Delaware
Once the vehicles arrive in Lewes around 10 AM, the tour groups will split. Half of the participants will board the ferry to Cape May, while the remaining vehicles divide between Fort Miles and the Historic Lewes Campus and Lightship Overfalls.
After lunch, the Lewes groups will rotate locations, giving visitors multiple chances to experience different vehicles and displays throughout the day before the tour continues onward later that afternoon.
A Tour with History
The Glidden Tour dates back to 1903, originally created to prove the reliability and practicality of early automobiles.
It was revived in 1946 and continues today as a celebration of automotive history, preservation, and craftsmanship.
The event is hosted in partnership with the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), a nonprofit organization with over 55,000 members dedicated to preserving and showcasing vehicles more than 25 years old.
Plan Your Visit
Free to attend
With multiple locations and rotating vehicle groups, we recommend exploring more than one stop to experience the full tour.
Whether you’re a lifelong car enthusiast or just love a unique local event, this is a rare chance to see history in motion—right here in Lewes.
For more information on the tour and organization:
AACA – Antique Automobile Club of America – AACA – Antique Automobile Club of America
Antique Auto Revival Glidden Tour
A Rolling Piece of American History Comes to Lewes
Step back in time as the Antique Auto Revival Glidden Tour rolls into Lewes this September.
This nationally recognized tour brings beautifully preserved pre–World War II automobiles through coastal Delaware as part of a 5-day, 500-mile journey celebrating the history and evolution of the American automobile.
Event Details
September 21 & 22, 2026
All Day
Locations Across Lewes:
Lightship Overfalls
Historic Lewes Complex
Fort Miles
What to Expect
Over the course of two days, approximately 150 vintage vehicles will make their way through Lewes as part of this historic tour.
Classic cars (pre-WWII) on display throughout town
Rotating locations between Overfalls, Historic Lewes, and Fort Miles
Ferry crossings between Lewes and Cape May
Opportunities to see all participating vehicles across both days
Each day brings a unique experience as groups rotate between locations—so no matter when you attend, there’s always something new to see.
A Tour with History
The Glidden Tour dates back to 1903, originally created to prove the reliability and practicality of early automobiles.
It was revived in 1946 and continues today as a celebration of automotive history, preservation, and craftsmanship.
The event is hosted in partnership with the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), a nonprofit organization with over 55,000 members dedicated to preserving and showcasing vehicles more than 25 years old.
Plan Your Visit
Free to attend
With multiple locations and rotating vehicle groups, we recommend exploring more than one stop to experience the full tour.
Whether you’re a lifelong car enthusiast or just love a unique local event, this is a rare chance to see history in motion—right here in Lewes.
For more information on the tour and organization:
AACA – Antique Automobile Club of America – AACA – Antique Automobile Club of America