Come explore one of the best examples of a Queen Anne-style Victorian mansion that Delaware has to offer with a one-hour tour, at 1 p.m. every Thursday and Friday. The mansion is the former home of the Marshall family whose history and legacy of industry and innovation filled the home with the antiques and furnishings you will see there today. You will get to explore two floors of Auburn Heights with a small group (maximum 10 people). A discounted joint tour to the Marshall Steam Museum and Mansion is only available by paying day of for your tour. If you pre-book you will not get the dollar off each tour discount. $8 per adult, $4 per child.
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Morse Code Bracelet at Delaware Seashore
This fashion makes a statement- literally! Morse code has been an important part of maritime communication since it was invented in 1844. Discover the history and value of Morse code while creating your own wearable message. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991.
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Gaming under the Great Dune at Cape Henlopen
Join other model wargamers to play scenarios in an underground WWII artillery position! Amateur to expert gamers welcome. Some refreshments provided, gamers are encouraged to bring their own models and terrain. Staff will be available to support new gamers. Games will be played for 3 hours and participants are encouraged to join for as long or as little as they like!
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Beach Driving Clinic at Delaware Seashore
Learn park rules, licensing requirements, and tips from park staff to maximize your safety while driving on the beach. Then, follow park staff out to the beach to practice driving on the sand. Participants must have a valid surf tag and the required equipment to do so. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to program. After that, please call 302-227-6991. $20 per person
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Pontoon Tour (Reserved Seat) at Alapocas Run
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the cypress swamp during this 1-hour guided tour aboard our 28-foot pontoon boat. These tickets are for individual seats on the pontoon boat. Online registration ends 48 hours prior to the pontoon tour. To make a reservation for your family/household group, please call the Baldcypress Nature Center directly at 302-875-5163. Adults $8, Children (Age 12 and under) $4.
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Introduction to Rock Climbing at Alapocas Run
After a brief introduction to equipment, climbing and safety, get harnessed up and climb on our natural rock wall. Park staff will instruct, guide and belay all climbers. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please note that it is a 10-minute walk from the parking lot with hills. Ages 8+. Online pre-registration and payment required by noon on the Friday prior to the program date. $30 per person.
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Brandywine Spring Festival of the Arts
Brandywine Spring Festival of the Arts
Dates: May 16 (10am-6pm) and 17 (10am-4pm) , 2026
Location: Siegel JCC Outdoor Campus, 101 Garden of Eden Rd, Wilmington, Delaware
Admission: Details available on the festival website
Website: www.brandywinespring.comA New Spring Arts Festival Comes to Wilmington
The Brandywine Spring Festival of the Arts debuts May 16–17, 2026, at the Siegel JCC (the J) in Wilmington, Delaware. Set across the JCC’s spacious Outdoor Campus, this new event brings together artists, families, and community members for a vibrant weekend celebrating creativity, culture, and the arrival of spring.
Inspired by the long-running Brandywine Festival of the Arts, originally founded in 1961, this spring edition introduces a fresh seasonal take on one of Wilmington’s most recognized arts traditions.
Festival producer Barry Schlecker of Barry’s Events and his team are launching the new festival as part of an expanding arts series that connects artists and audiences across the region.
“We are so passionate about creating opportunities for artists to share their works. This new Spring Edition of our Festival of the Arts Series is the perfect way to kick off the season, bringing artists and patrons together at a new, fresh, and exciting location.”
— Barry Schlecker, Festival ProducerLocal and Regional Artists
Visitors can explore original works from a wide variety of artists showcasing pieces in:
- Painting
- Ceramics
- Photography
- Jewelry
- Mixed media
- Sculpture and handcrafted art
The festival highlights both local and regional artists, offering guests the opportunity to meet creators and discover unique works available for purchase.
Interactive Art Experiences
The Brandywine Spring Festival of the Arts is a family-friendly celebration featuring creative activities for all ages.
Guests can enjoy:
- Interactive art projects
- Family craft activities
- Hands-on creative experiences
- Live demonstrations from participating artists
These activities encourage visitors to engage directly with the artistic process while exploring the festival grounds.
Food, Entertainment, and Community
The festival will also feature a selection of curated local restaurants and food trucks, offering a variety of dining options to enjoy while strolling through the Outdoor Campus.
The relaxed, welcoming environment makes the event ideal for:
- Families and children
- Art collectors
- Local residents
- Visitors exploring Wilmington’s arts scene
The festival grounds will also be pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring well-behaved dogs while enjoying the outdoor setting.
“We’re thrilled to bring the Brandywine Spring Festival of the Arts to the J,” said Ivy Harlev, CEO of the Siegel JCC. “This event reflects our commitment to nurturing community connections through the arts and offering a joyful, inclusive experience where creativity can flourish.”
Celebrate Spring Through Art
With a mix of fine art, hands-on activities, food vendors, and live entertainment, the Brandywine Spring Festival of the Arts offers a lively way to celebrate the season while supporting artists and local culture.
Additional information about festival hours, admission, and artist participation is available at:
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Fort Delaware Open to the Public at Fort Delaware
Come out and visit the greatest Civil War site in Delaware! We have several programs going on daily, including artillery demonstrations, tours, and interactive activities. You can also explore the fort, and interact with the various activities in each room. Fort Delaware is a great experience for visitors of all ages!
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Cape Nature 250 to Today Hike at Cape Henlopen
Take a walk through space and time as we explore how the flora, fauna and landscape of Cape has changed from 1776 to 2026. For ages 7+ with an adult. Pre-register required by calling (302) 645-6852.FREE with park entrance fee.
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Discover Battery 519 at Cape Henlopen
Tour the underground Battery 519 to discover how Fort Miles planned to defend the east coast from the anticipated threats of WWII. Tours meet at the Fort Miles Museum in Battery 519. Recommended for ages 7+. $6 per person. Online registration ends 24 hours prior to the program. After that, please call 302-644-5007.
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Youth Fishing Tournament at Alapocas Run
Open to ages 15 and under. Meet at the boathouse for free fishing instruction and other activities from 8:30 – 9 a.m. Fishing tournament will begin at 9 and run until 11. Catch and release will be encouraged. Equipment will be provided, or bring your own. Free, with paid park admission!
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Litter Cleanup at Brandywine Zoo
Join the Brandywine Zoo for our monthly litter cleanups! At each cleanup, volunteers and zoo staff will collect and properly dispose of trash around the Zoo and throughout Brandywine Park. Tools and gloves are welcome, but not required! We will provide all tools, gloves and collection buckets. Please wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothing. Groups will meet at the Education Building at 9:00am. Registration is encouraged so we can ensure there are enough supplies and tools for all volunteers. To RSVP or ask questions, please email CommunityEngagement@BrandywineZoo.org or Luvina.Cooley@delaware.gov.
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Little Nature Explorers (Sunday Session) at Brandywine Zoo
Do you and your child love playing outdoors? This multi-week series allows children aged 2 to 5 and their guardians to make discoveries outdoors together. Each 45-minute class includes nature-based, child-directed activities, singing, and a storybook. Each week will learn about a different animal at the Zoo. Sign up for Sunday or Wednesday classes. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Due to limited space, a maximum of 2 adults can attend class per family. Class is limited in size and will take place outdoors, so dress for the weather. Ticket Fee: $15 per child for each class.
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Fort Delaware Open to the Public at Fort Delaware
Come out and visit the greatest Civil War site in Delaware! We have several programs going on daily, including artillery demonstrations, tours, and interactive activities. You can also explore the fort, and interact with the various activities in each room. Fort Delaware is a great experience for visitors of all ages!
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Pea Patch Island Heron Tour at Fort Delaware
Join Declan O’Neil from the Delaware Ornithological Society, for a birding hike at Pea Patch Island. Enjoy the hernory overlook, and marvel at the nesting wading birds on this wetland island. NOTE: Attendees will need to have a ticket for the 10 AM ferry to participate.
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Beach Driving 101 at Cape Henlopen
Park rangers and veteran surf-fisherman will teach you the park rules and guidelines for driving on State Park beaches. Plus, get some tips and tricks for a successful, stuck-free day of surf-fishing. This is an indoor presentation only, no actual driving on the beach. Online registration closes 24 hours prior to the program. After that please call (302) 645-6852. $5 per person
