< PreviousPage 8 2025 Central Delaware Vacation Planner Central Delaware Attractions - from pg. 7 See CENTRAL DELAWARE ATTRACTIONS - Page 9 JOIN US FOR A JULY 18-20 Division of Parks and Rec. at 302-739-4702. Delaware Public Archives Located at 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. archives.delaware.gov, 302-744-5000, The Mabel Lloyd Ridgely Research Room is open Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. First Saturdays 1-4:00 p.m. The Downstate Delaware Genealogical Society meets every other month at the Delaware Public Archives from October to June. Meetings include guest speakers and shar- ing genealogical information. The public is welcome. Delaware State Fairgrounds, 302-398-3269, www. delawarestatefair.com. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call for ticket prices for events and for additional information. Located on US 13 in Har- rington, 18500 South DuPont Highway, south of Route 14. The Delaware State Fairgrounds is a growing entertainment complex, site of Harrington Raceway and Casino, Quillen Arena, the annual Delaware State Fair, and numerous events throughout the year. The Delaware State Fair, held the last week in July, wel- comes nearly 300,000 visitors to enjoy the carnival midway rides, headline entertainers, local culinary treats, farm ani- mal, produce competitions, & handmade crafts. Delaware State Police Museum and Educational Cen- ter, 302-739-7700, www.dspmuseum.com. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Located on US 13, 1425 N. DuPont Highway in Dover at the Delaware State Police Headquarters, just north of Dover Mall and open Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The exhibits are impressive, with stylish uniforms, firearms, a 1946 Ford patrol car, two antique Har- ley Davidson motorcycles, a crime scene where visitors look for clues, and a 911 emergency call center. The exhibits ex- plore changes in crime-fighting techniques and technology of the Delaware State Police from 1926 to now. DE Turf Sports Complex, 302-330-8873. DE Turf is the largest all-synthetic turf sports complex in the Mid-Atlantic region located off of Rt. 1 at 4000 Bay Road in Frederica and features 12 synthetic turf fields, 5 lighted fields and seat- ing for 700 patrons. They offer youth programs in soccer, lacrosse, field hockey and rugby in addition to tournaments throughout the year. Visit them at www.deturf.com. Dover Art League, 302-674-0402, thedoverartleague. com. Located at 21 W. Loockerman Street in downtown Do- ver, near the State Street intersection. Group tours and pro- grams available. Located at 21 West Loockerman Street in downtown Dover, the Dover Art League features local art- ists works for sale in a variety of media. As a community art center, the Art League also hosts member exhibitions, and offers lectures and classes on various interesting arts topics. Open Wed. – Sat. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Bally’s Dover Hotel & Casino Resort, 800-711-5882, 302-674-4600, www.ballys.com/dover/ Casino open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Closed Christmas. Admission to the casino is free. Call for concert tickets and schedules. Bally’s Dover is located on US 13, 1131 North DuPont Highway in north Dover. Accessible from Route 1 via Exit 104 (N. Dover exit).2025 Central Delaware Vacation PlannerPage 9 Central Delaware Attractions - from pg. 8 U-Pick Flowers Weekdays & Saturdays / June-August U-Pick Peaches Fridays & Saturdays / July-August U-Pick Apples Fridays & Saturdays / August-October U-Pick Pumpkins Weekdays & Saturdays / October Everyday Activities Monday – Saturday (closed Sundays) Fifer daily offerings include: Farm Store Shopping Farm Kitchen for Lunch & Sweet Treats U-Pick Experiences · U-Play Activity Area Weather permitting. Check our Facebook page for daily updates. Saturday Extras Saturdays we host guests to make it extra special on the farm. Check our Facebook page weekly. Special guests could include: Live Music • Tractor Train Rides Farm Animal Exhibits • Face Painters Food Trucks Outdoor activites weather permitting. Bring-your-own wagon fifers.com 302-697-2141 office@fiferorchards.com MAR 29 Opening Day (open 6-days / week) APR 12Saturday Extras Pop-up Vendor Market 19Saturday Extras 26Saturday Extras /U-Pick Strawberries MAY 3 Saturday Extras /U-Pick Strawberries 10 Saturday Extras /U-Pick Strawberries 17Saturday Extras /U-Pick Strawberries 24 Saturday Extras /U-Pick Strawberries 31 Saturday Extras /U-Pick Strawberries JUN 7 Sat Extras /U-Pick Strawberries 14 Sat Extras /U-Pick Strawberries /U-Pick Blueberries Pop-up Vendor Market 21 Sat Extras / U-Pick Blueberries 28 Sat Extras / U-Pick Blueberries/U-Pick Flowers JUL5Sat Extras /U-Pick Blueberries/U-Pick Flowers 12Sat Extras /U-Pick Blueberries/U-Pick Flowers 19Sat Extras /U-Pick Peaches/U-Pick Flowers 26Saturday Extras /U-Pick Peaches/ U-Pick Flowers AUG Customer Appreciation Month (redeem 9/1-9/15 only) Earn tokens in August for FREE ice cream in September! 2Saturday Extras /U-Pick Peaches 9Saturday Extras /U-Pick Peaches 16Saturday Extras /U-Pick Peaches 23Saturday Extras /U-Pick Apples 30Saturday Extras /U-Pick Apples SEP6Saturday Extras /U-Pick Apples 13Saturday Extras /U-Pick Apples Pop-up Vendor Market 20Fall Fest/U-Pick Apples/U-Pick Pumpkins 27Fall Fest/U-Pick Apples/U-Pick Pumpkins OCT 4Fall Fest/U-Pick Apples/U-Pick Pumpkins 11Fall Fest/U-Pick Apples/U-Pick Pumpkins 18Fall Fest/U-Pick Apples/U-Pick Pumpkins 25Fall Fest/U-Pick Apples/U-Pick Pumpkins NOV 1Fall Fest 8Fall Fest/ Saturday Extras/ Harvest Hustle 5K 15Pop-up Vendor Market 22Saturday Extras 29Donuts with Santa/ Saturday Extras DEC 6Donuts with Santa/ Saturday Extras 13Donuts with Santa / Saturday Extras 20Donuts with Santa / Saturday Extras 23 Season Finale Farm Store & Farm Kitchen MON-SAT (closed Sundays) Check our Facebook page for daily hours FEB 22Winter Pickup Day Check our website for details U-Play, too! See CENTRAL DELAWARE ATTRACTIONS - Page 10 Tues.-Sat. 10-5 Sun. 12-4 Closed Holidays Proprietress Barb Gooden Kim Bomberger Simply CharmingSimply Charming S t y li s h b len dofo ld& n e w ! These charming shops are located in a late 1800’s train station and Feed Mill, which feature a stylish blend of old and new. Voted Best of Delaware in 2019-20-21-22 for Antiques and Home Accessories. 2 S. Railroad Ave., Wyoming, DE 19934 • 302-697-7377 11 Mill St., Wyoming, DE 19934 • 302-697-6100 Follow us on Facebook ~ Email: SimplyCharmingbs@gmail.com Visit both, within a few blocks of each other to feel the “Charm” S pring F ling O pen H OuS e March 6 th thru 9 th A nniverSAry C elebrAtiOn April 12 th H OlidAy O pen H OuSe Nov. 6th thru 9th v iSit u S d uring O ur S peCiAl e ventS v iSit u S d uring O ur S peCiAl e ventS It’s aIt’s a Shopping ExperienceShopping Experience S ip & S HOp Dec. 11th 5-7pm “Wonderful Get Away from it all”“Wonderful Get Away from it all” Bally’s Dover boasts your favorite table games and 2,200 slot machines to a 250-seat sportsbook with Delaware sports betting on your favorite professional and college sports, live harness racing from November through March and simul- cast harness and thoroughbred racing year-round. The sports book is open 7 days a week. Table games are now open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Dover Motor Speedway, 800-441-RACE, www.dover- motorspeedway.com, 1131 N. Dupont Highway, Dover. In 2025, Dover Motor Speedway will host the Summer NAS- CAR tripleheader weekend on July 18th the General Tire 150 ARCA Menards Series Race, July 19th the BetRivers 200, NASCAR Xfinity Series Race, and on July 20th the Auto- trader EchoPark Automotive 400 NASCAR Cup Series race. Dover Motor Speedway, the world’s fastest one-mile oval, is known throughout motorsports as the “Monster Mile” for the punishing toll it takes on drivers and equipment. With 9 degrees of banking in the front stretch and backstretch and 24 degrees in the turns, speeds can reach as high as almost 170 miles per hour on the concrete track. NASCAR Cup Series seats are reserved, while all other events are general admission. Visit www.dovermotorspeed- way.com or call 800-441-RACE for tickets. Dover Mall, 302-678-4000, www.simon.com/mall/dover- mall. Open Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sun- day, noon.-6 p.m. Located on US 13, 1365 North Dupont Highway, Dover, just north of Dover Motor Speedway. En- joy tax-free shopping including Boscov’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Old Navy, JC Penney, and many others. This modern indoor mall also has restaurants, and a food court. The DuPont Nature Center, 302-422-1329, dnrec.al- pha.delaware.gov/fish-wildlife/education-outreach/dupont- nature-center/ Horseshoe crab/shorebird interpretive center on the Delaware Bay located at Mispillion Harbor Reserve, 2992 Lighthouse Road, Milford. Owned and operated by the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, this center of- fers the hottest spot for viewing spawning horseshoe crabs and migratory shorebirds on the planet. The interior of the nature center offers an array of educational exhibits, which have been funded in part by donations from the DuPont Cor- poration. Visitors can learn about horseshoe crabs, migra- tory shorebirds, the Delaware Estuary, waterfowl, as well as the history of Slaughter Beach and the famed Misipillion Lighthouse. A live-cam will allow the public an up close and personal view of shorebirds feeding and horseshoe crabs spawning during peak times. Exterior binoculars and scopes Dover Motor SpeedwayPage 102025 Central Delaware Vacation Planner Central Delaware Attractions - from pg. 9 See CENTRAL DELAWARE ATTRACTIONS - Page 11 CAMPGROUND *CabinswithA/C, Heat,Private Bathrooms,Kitchens, &CableTV *SwimmingPool *ActivityHall *DumpStation *PicnicAreas *RVStorage *Pavillion 4075GunandRodClubRoad Houston,De19954 302-398-8108 VISITUSONLINEAT www.gandrcampground.com CAMPING YearRound *OpenandWoodedRV andTentSiteswith Water,Electric,&Sewer *WifiAccess *HammockPark *SpecialEventsand Festivals *BathhousesWith Showers *LawnGames *Andsomuchmore! G&R supportyourlocalcampground will provide viewing opportunities from dusk to dawn. Hours of operation are: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Wednesdays and Sat- urdays April 1st-April 30th, Tues.-Sat. May 1st-August 31st, 10 :00 a.m.- 4 p.m. Peak viewing times will determine ad- ditional weekend hours. High tides should be checked by visitors prior to coming to the center due to high levels of water possibly being on the road entering the center. Fifer Orchards’ Farm Store & Kitchen, 302-697-2141, www.fiferorchards.com. The store is open March 29 -De- cember, Monday – Saturday, closed Sunday. Located 1/2 mile west of Wyoming, 1919 Allabands Mill Rd, Grant Street Ext. (From Rts. 13 & 10 intersection, go west on Camden-Wyoming Ave. for 1 mile straight to the RR. Cross the tracks, take a right, and then an immediate left on Grant St. Go west 1/2 mi. into the country. Store is on right.) Take a quick trip to the country for the freshest, most nutritious seasonal fruits and vegetables around! Enjoy the scenery, visually experience the activities of a fourth-generation working farm, and shop in Fifer’s farm market. The store features jams, jellies, dressings, pickles, mixes, honey, apple butter, apple cider, candy, pies, cookies, and hand-dipped ice cream. U-Pick is available, in season, for strawberries, blue- berries, peaches, apples, cut flowers, and pumpkins. Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch & ice cream at the farm kitchen and your family will enjoy the u-play area. First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Gal- leries, 302-744-5055, free parking, history.delaware.gov/ museums. Located on the first floor of the Delaware Pub- lic Archives building adjacent to Legislative Hall, the First State Heritage Park Welcome Center & Galleries serves as an entrance portal to the attractions of Delaware’s state capital and the historic city of Dover. The welcome center features changing exhibits and a rotating display of Dela- ware’s founding documents while also serving as a source of information on local and statewide attractions, events, and activities. The welcome center is located at 121 Martin Lu- ther King Jr. Boulevard North and open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. First State Heritage Park, 302-739-9194 or 302-744- 5055, www.destateparks.com/History/FirstStateHeritage. For those who love history and also for those looking for af- fordable, valuable and enjoyable family vacations, the First State Heritage Park is a site to visit. Established in 2004, the First State Heritage Park is the state’s first “park without boundaries” and links several dozen historical and cultural sites in Dover – the capital city of Delaware. Dover has two historic districts on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to what is considered by many to be one of the most beautifully preserved capitol complexes in the nation. The First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries is located at:121 Martin Luther King Jr. Boule- vard. Hours are Mon. to Fri. 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Wel- come Center is centrally-located, offering all-day free park- ing. Stepping back in time has never been easier. You may be surprised by the intimate feel and the remarkable history contained within one square mile. The First State Heritage Park brings 300 years of history to life through special pro- gramming. Free unreserved walking tours of Historic Dover led by historical interpreters in period clothing are offered Thursday-Saturday, at 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tours last approxi- mately 45 minutes and leave from the John Bell House on The Green. For more information visit www.destateparks. com/History/FirstStateHeritage Visit on the first Saturday of each month and enjoy “First Saturdays in the First State.” All First State Heritage Park sites are open. Admission to all sites and programs is free. For more information visit www. destateparks.com/History/FirstStateHeritage Garrison’s Lake Golf Club, 302-659-1206, www.gar- risonslakegolf.com, 101 West Fairways Circle, Smyrna. An 18 hole, 7,028 yard, par 72 golf course with driving range, practice sand traps and two large putting greens located off of Rt. 13 south of Smyrna. G&R Campground, 302-398-8108, www.gandrcamp- ground.com, 4075 Gun and Rod Club Road, Houston. The family-owned campground has been a staple in the state of Delaware since 1967. Most of the campers return every year to create memories with family and friends, attend the an- nual June Jam music festival in June, or getaway for a quiet weekend visit. Reserve a Cabin, RV site, Tent site (primi- tive), or Glamping site at G&R today. Harness Racing at Bally’s Dover, 302-674-4600, www. doverdowns.com/harness-racing/, 1131 N. Dupont High- way, Dover. Bally’s Dover has some of the fastest live har- ness racing in the country, open from late November through March, on the groomed track inside the concrete speedway oval. Regional horses and drivers compete for large prize purses here. Guests can place wagers on the races and watch 2025 Central Delaware Vacation PlannerPage 11 Central Delaware Attractions - from pg. 10 201 Stover Blvd. Dover, DE 19901 Located 1 Mile North of DAFB 302 678-8383 With residential-style suites and affordable rates, we invite you to make yourself at home for as long as you’d like . •Complimentarybreakfast •Complimentary wired & wireless internet •Fitnesscenter •Kitchens including 2 burner cook-top •Guest laundry on site www.mainstaysuitesdover.com An Extended Stay Hotel HarvestRidgeWinery Comegetawayfromitall! 447 Westville Rd, Marydel, DE 19964 Events~LiveMusic~PairingsFoodTruck AwardWinningWines Harvestridgewinery.com See CENTRAL DELAWARE ATTRACTIONS - Page 12 www.facebook.com/irishrosegiftshop Tues.-Fri. 10-5; Sat. 10-4; Closed Sun. & Mon. “The only Irish shop in Delaware” tableside TV monitors while enjoying a buffet dinner in the Grandstand, or watch the action at ground level adjacent to the track. Bally’s Dover also offers daily simulcast wagering (off-track betting) year-round, featuring the top harness and thoroughbred tracks around the United States and Canada. Admission is free. Greater Harrington Historical Society Museums 302- 398-3698, ghhsociety.org. The Historical Society maintains 3 museum location that house over 50,000 artifacts, some dating back to the early 1700’s. Tours are available by ap- pointment, with ample advance notice. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. The museums include the origi- nal St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Pauline Satterfield An- nex and the Railroad Tower and Caboose. Harrington Raceway and Casino 302-398-4920 or 888- 887-5687 www.harringtonraceway.com, 18500 S. DuPont Highway, Harrington. Enjoy the top destination for a good time on the Eastern Shore. Plan a weekend getaway to see everything offered, where you will find countless opportu- nities to have some fun with live entertainment, numerous in-house restaurants, sports betting, and casino slots in Har- rington, DE. Test your luck atHarrington Raceway & Ca- sinoto enjoy 1,300 slots, all of your favorite table games and a state-of-the-art simulcast parlor, Harrington Raceway & Casino is the epicenter for gaming in Delaware. Casino open 8 a.m. -4 a.m daily, Sun. – Thurs. and open 24 hours a day on Fri. & Sat. Closed Christmas & Easter. Harness Racing at Harrington Raceway 302-398-7223, www.harringtonraceway.com, 18500 S. DuPont Highway, Harrington. Live harness racing April through early June, Monday through Wednesday with dates for the Fair in July and the season resuming in August and ending in October. Simulcast harness and thoroughbred racing (off-track bet- ting) is open daily, year-round, noon to midnight. Admission is free for harness racing and simulcast wagering. Call for a schedule of other live events and ticket prices. Located on US 13 at the Delaware State Fairgrounds, Harrington. Harvest Ridge Winery, 302-343-9437, www.harvest- ridgewinery.com, 447 Westville Road, Marydel. A visit to Page 12 2025 Central Delaware Vacation Planner Central Delaware Attractions - from pg. 11 See CENTRAL DELAWARE ATTRACTIONS - Page 14 Discover Jonathan’s Landing! 18-Hole Championship Public Golf • Outings • Events To book your next outing or event, call (302) 697-8204, today! 1309 Ponderosa Drive | Magnolia, DE 19962 www.jonathanslandinggolf.com Jonathan’s Landing is the area’s premier location for your upcoming wedding, party, outing or special event, featuring the newly renovated Lighthouse Ballroom with a large dance area and wrap around deck overlooking the golf course. Harvest Ridge Winery will have you feeling like you have stepped back in time – to a time when life was less frantic, more relaxed– simpler. Daily tastings are available Sunday through Thursday from noon - 5:00 p.m, and noon-8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Food trucks are on the property Fri.-Sun. Irish Rose Gift Shop, 42 N. Walnut St., downtown Milford, 302-491-4125, www.irishrosegiftshop.com/. The shop features great gift ideas from Ireland including sweat- ers, wool hats, ornaments, and heart jewelry. Open Tues. –Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Jonathan’s Landing, 302-697-8204, www.jona- thanslandinggolf.com, south of the Dover Air Force Base, 1309 Ponderosa Dr, Magnolia, Jonathan’s Landing Golf Club is one of Delaware’s most frequently played public golf courses, with a distinctive marshland, links-style lay- out, undulating greens, subtle elevation changes, and wind- swept views. Challenging for more experienced golfers yet still forgiving enough for intermediate golfers to enjoy, Jonathan’s Landing will quickly become a course you want to play again and again. The front nine offers many water hazards and a slightly longer layout, playing to over 3500 yards from the back tees. When golfers make the turn, the back nine shifts to more undulating green complexes, a few target holes where driver may not be necessary, and strate- gically placed bunkers. Each hole is unique, with a great mix of par threes and par fours and fives that vary in length and difficulty. If you’ve never played Jonathan’s Landing, make your tee time today and see it for yourself! John Bell House, 302-739-9194. www.destateparks. com/History/FirstStateHeritage Located at 43 at the historic Green in Dover. Open Thurs.– Sat., 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. This recently restored mid-18th century building is the oldest frame structure in Dover. Free walking tours of Dover’s his- toric district leave from this location at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Thurs. – Sat. John Dickinson Plantation 302-739-3277, history.dela- ware.gov/museums. The plantation is currently open for tours Thurs. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The Visitor’s Center is open Wed.-Sat. at 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sun. 1:30-4 p.m. Call 302-739-3277 for details. 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover is south of the Dover Air Force Base, via US 113 or Route 9. John Dickinson, known as the “Penman of the Revolu- tion,” was one of America’s founding fathers who wrote of freedom and liberty for all while holding human beings in bondage. The John Dickinson Plantation was home to a va- riety of people. The stories of the tenant farmers, indentured servants, free and enslaved Black men, women, and children who lived, worked, and died on the plantation are all told. Johnson Victrola Museum, 302-739-3262, history.dela- ware.gov/museums The museum is currently open Wed. – Sat. from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Museum is located at the corner of Bank and New Streets, 375 S. New St. in downtown Dover. The Johnson Victrola Museum features an extensive col- lection of Victor Talking Machines (early record players) and memorabilia. The Victor Talking Machine Company was founded in 1901. Company founder and inventor El-2025 Central Delaware Vacation PlannerPage 13 Spring Events - from page 3 See SPRING & SUMMER EVENTS - Page 15 Smyrna and end at N Main St. at the George Wright Memo- rial Park. To register or for questions contact Stacey Hutson at staceyhutson@hotmail.com March 16 – Cabin Fever Scavenger Hunt at Antique Alley of Bridgeville. 18208 Sussex Hwy., Bridgeville. Call 302-337- 3137 or visit antiquealleyde.com. March 20 – July 6 -The Prints of Rockwell Kent: Selections from the Ralf Nemec Collection. Artist and activist Rockwell Kent (1882-1971) was a household name. Best-known for his iconic images of the earth’s harsh and frozen extremities, Kent often explored the relationship between humans and nature. As an author, he published thrilling accounts of his own expedi- tions to Newfoundland, Alaska, Tierra del Fuego, and Green- land. As an illustrator, he created editions of literary classics like the Old English epic Beowulf, Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass, and Herman Melville’s Moby Dick. This exhibition showcases selections from the Ralf C. Nemec Collection, the largest assemblage of Kent’s prints in the world. Biggs Mu- seum of American Art, 406 Federal St. in Dover. Visit www. biggsmuseum.org or call 302-674-2111 for info. March 27- 14th Annual Milford Spring Community Expo/ Affordable Housing Resource Fair at the Greater Milford Boys & Girls Club. Free and open to the public from 5-7 p.m. Call 302- 422-3344 or visit www.milfordchamber.com. March 29 – Fifer Orchards Farm Store & Farm Kitchen re- opens for the season. Fifer’s re-opens for their 106th year at their location 1919 Allabands Rd. in Camden-Wyoming. They are open Mon-Sat. Call 302-697-2141 or visit www.fiferor- chards.com. APRIL April – June & Aug.- Oct. Live Harness Racing at Har- rington Raceway & Casino. Post time for Live Harness Racing is 4:30 p.m. Call 888-887-5687 or visit www.harringtonrace- way.com/home/ for the 2022 race schedule. April 5 – Dover Duathlon. 1.5 mile run, 13.5 mile bike ride, 1.5 mile run at Schutte Park, 10 Electric Ave., Dover. Visit runsignup.com/Race/DE/Dover/DELAWARESPRINTDU- ATHLON April 6 – Wedding & Event Expo. The Delaware Agricul- tural Museum & Village, 866 N. DuPont Hwy., Dover from 1-5 p.m. Call 302-734-1618 or visit www.agriculturalmuseum.org. April 12 –Simply Charming Anniversary Celebration. Browse through the boutiques located throughout the stores to find specials, spring décor and gifts. Located at 2 S. Railroad Avenue in Wyoming and at 11 Mill Street. Call 302-697-7377 for visit www.simplycharmingde.com for info. April 11-13 - 2025 Food Truck Competition at Harvest Ridge Winery. 25+ of the most talented and popular trucks in the area will be duking it out over two days to vie for your vote. The winery is located at 447 Westville Road, Marydel. call 302-343-9437 or visit www.harvestridgewinery.com for info. April 12 - Dover Easter Egg Hunt. The City of Dover Parks & Recreation Division sponsors the annual Easter egg hunt at the Schutte Park, Dover for kids 10 and under beginning at noon. Kids bring your baskets and be ready to gather eggs left by the Schutte Park bunnies. This FREE annual event is a hop- ping good time for all kids 10 and under, registration is not necessary. The hunt starts promptly at NOON on the City of Dover softball fields in Schutte Park. Don’t be late, the hunt only lasts a few minutes!!Call 302 -674-7541 or visit www. cityofdover.com for info. April 14—The 27th Annual Breast Cancer Update “Breast Cancer: The State We’re In”. (Virtual, Zoom) Visit debreast- cancer.org. April 16 - The 23rd annual 55+ Active Adult Expo. The Expo will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bally’s Dover Hotel & Casino Resort® Rollins Center, 1131 N. Dupont Hwy., Do- ver. Visit www.cdcc.net/55plus for info. April 19 - G&R Campground’s 3rd Annual Easter S’more Eggstravaganza! Enjoy s’mores, Easter fun, and camping adventures. Get ready for a hopping good time with activi- ties like egg decorating, face painting, a petting zoo, bounce houses, egg scavenger hunts, and of course, roasting marsh- mallows for s’mores! Don’t miss out on this eggstra special event where families and friends can come together for some outdoor fun. 10 a.m.-noon, G&R Campground, Gun and Rod Club Rd., Houston. Call 302-398-8108 to register. Visit gan- drcampground.com. April 22 – Earth Day at Antique Alley of Bridgeville. Re- cycle/Repurpose (Furniture Restoration Contest participants featured and voted on)18208 Sussex Hwy., Bridgeville. Call 302-337-3137 or visit antiquealleyde.com. April 24 - 27 – 29th annual Delmarva Spring Birding Week- end, throughout the peninsula celebrating the migration of hundreds of warblers, shorebirds and waterfowl. Canoe, kay- ak, boat trips and guided walks, as well as several receptions. For info, visit delmarvabirding.com April 25-26 – Outdoors Delmarva Expo. Join Delmarva Sports Network at the Delaware State Fairgrounds for the Out- doors Delmarva Expo! Both indoor and outdoor vendors will be on-site in the Delaware State Fair Dover Building, Kent & Schabinger Pavilions, and camping area showcasing every- thing outdoor – Boats, RV’s, Hot Tubs, Hunting & Fishing, & so much more! For info visit wbocevents.com. April 26 – Annual Bug and Bud Festival. The annual event is sponsored by Downtown Milford Inc and celebrates the Page 14 2025 Central Delaware Vacation Planner 1121 Forrest Ave. Dover, DE 19904 302-734-1200 Visit our website: www.modern-maturity.org Conveniently located between Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge and Dover Downs Casino & Speedway off exit 114 of Route 1, on No. Dupont Blvd. 190 Stadium Street, Smyrna, DE 19977 Tel: 302-659-3635 • Fax 302-659-3638 choicehotels.com For Reservations Call: 1-888-764-4693 HOTEL AMENITIES • Continental Breakfast • Outdoor Pool* • Exercise Facility • Cable TV • Business Center • Free high speed Internet • AM/FM alarm clock, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron & ironing board • Fax & Copying services available *Pool is seasonal Smyrna Inn To Wilmington QI Smyrna Inn Central Delaware Attractions - from pg. 13 See CENTRAL DELAWARE ATTRACTIONS - Page 19 dridge Reeves Johnson, a native Delawarean, was a compet- itor of Thomas Edison. Museum exhibits include a 1920’s Victrola dealer’s store with a collection of talking machines, cabinet Victrolas, and early records. Recordings are regu- larly played on modern and antique equipment, and posters and memorabilia showcase Victor’s popular recording art- ists. Also featured is an original painting of ‘Nipper,’ the dog that became the trademark for RCA, known as “His Master’s Voice.” Ask to hear the music. Killens Pond State Park and Waterpark, 302-284-4526 Office, 302-284-3412 Campground, www.destateparks. com/PondsRivers/KillensPond The park is open daily, 8 a.m.-sunset, year-round. Located off US 13 between Har- rington and Felton at 5025 Killens Pond Road, Felton. Park entrance fees are charged daily between March 1st-Novem- ber 30th. The water park is open Memorial Day Weekend thru Labor Day, the first and last two weeks of the season the waterpark will only be open on weekends. From mid-June to mid-August the waterpark will be open daily. Enjoy the great outdoors, by boating, fishing, hiking, play- ing, and swimming at Killens Pond State Park. The park of- fers year-round camping and camping cabins in a wooded area near the shore of the picturesque 66-acre freshwater pond. Canoes, rowboats and pedal boats can be rented dur- ing the summer, and narrated pontoon boat tours circle the pond on summer weekends and holidays. This diverse park also includes a water park with four 54-foot slides, 3 pools and kiddie slides, a nature center, athletic fields, miles of hiking trails, playgrounds, pavilions, and picnic areas. Legislative Hall Tours, The State Capitol, 302-739- 9194. The Capitol is located at 411 Legislative Avenue, Dover. Legislative Hall is Delaware’s current state capitol building, home to Delaware’s General Assembly. The Sen- ate and House of Representatives Chambers are on the first floor. On the second floor, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor have ceremonial offices. Legislative Hall, affec- tionately called “Leg Hall” by locals, is filled with paintings and portraits of former governors and Delaware’s heroes of World War II. Visitors may observe Senators and Repre- sentatives in action when the Legislature is in session. The broad expanse of lawn in front of Legislative Hall is known as Legislative Mall. Shaded by lovely elm trees, the mall is the site of many festivals in Dover, including Dover Days in May, and July 4th Fireworks. Self-guided tours of the State Capitol building are available Mon. thru Fri. from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. excluding holidays. Tours offered Wed.-Fri. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit legis.delaware.gov/Resources/Plannin- gAVisit Messick Agriculture Museum, Inc., 302-398-3729, www.taylormessick.com/messick-museum. Open Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., during business hours. Admis- sion is free, but donations are welcome. Located behind Tay- lor & Messick, Inc., west Harrington (tractor sales). From US 13, take Route 14 into Harrington, turn left at the stop sign after the railroad tracks, and follow that road through town and around the bend. Taylor and Messick, Inc. will be 2025 Central Delaware Vacation PlannerPage 15 Spring & Summer Events - from pg 13 Crafts • Housewares Wall Hangings • Toys & Gifts Shady Lane Selections Featuring Hand CraftedAmish Quilts A Large Variety In Stock – In Many Sizes & Colors Large Selection of Quilting Supplies and Fabrics Take a Trip to Amish Country and Visit Open: Mon. - Wed., 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Fri. 8 - 5; Sat. 8 - 5; Closed Thursday and Sunday 1121B Victory Chapel Road Dover, DE 19904 See SUMMER EVENTS - Page 16 state insect the ladybug. 9 a.m. -4 p.m. in downtown Milford. For info on this year’s event and other Milford events, call 302- 393-6808 or visit www.downtownmilford.org. April 26 - 10 Year Anniversary at Antique Alley of Brid- geville. 10% off storewide and surprises. 18208 Sussex Hwy., Bridgeville. Call 302-337-3137 or visit antiquealleyde.com. MAY May – Dec. – 30th Milford Riverwalk Farmers Market. Ev- ery Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Riverwalk Park, downtown Milford. For information, call 302-393-6808 or visit www. downtownmilford.org May 2 & 3 – 92nd Dover Days Festival & Parade - TheAn- nual Dover Days Festival, is one of Delaware’s largest and longest-running free events, is entirely dedicated to promoting our state’s heritage and culture. Dover Days is easily the big- gest parade in Kent County, with Delaware’s Governor serving as Grand Marshal. Each year’s Dover Days activities showcase our state’s history and heritage, as well as highlights from more contemporary times such as the parade,traditional Maypole Dancing, games, tethered hot air balloon rides, moon bounce village, over 100craft and food vendors, music, colonial arti- sans’ village and historic re-enactment groups. Free festival admission which is held on Legislative Mall, The Green and in Downtown Dover, free parking. This year’s festival will kick off with food vendors, live music and fire- works on Friday, May 2nd from 6-9:30 p.m. For more info visit www.doverdaysfestival.com. May 8 -Bluesuiters Golf tournament- The purpose of this tournament is to promote the wonderful relationship between the Dover Community and the Dover Air Force Base. Each team is made up of two community members and two Airmen. Thistournament is for golfers of every skill level! Call 302- 734-7513 or visit cdcc.net for info. May 11- Mother’s Day specials. Free gifts for moms while supplies last. Antique Alley of Bridgeville and Downtown Al- ley of Bridgeville. Call 302-337-3137 or visit antiquealleyde. com. May 14 - The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition’s (DBCC) 27th Annual Breast Cancer Update. The 27th Annual Breast Cancer Update will be held virtually via Zoom from 8 a.m. to noon. Please visit debreastcancer.org/breastcancerupdate/ May 24 & 25 - 13th Annual Bowers Beach Buccaneer Bash. Pirates invading Bowers Beach Delaware for a weekend of fun and games, plundering and pillaging, pirating and buccaneer- ing. This family friendly event will include demonstrations, pirate battles, cannon and musket firing, sword fighting, pirate costume contests for children and adults, skits, period and craft vendors, great food, story-telling, live period music and boat rides on Sunday. Daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For info call 302- 222-6341 or visit bowersbeach.delaware.gov/museum/ or their facebook page. May 26 - The City of Milford Memorial Day Ceremony. 10:30 a.m., Milford High School auditorium. Call 302-422- 6616 for info. The City of Harrington Memorial Day Parade- The Parade honors those that have given their lives for our freedom. Cur- rent and former members of the military are invited to join the parade and festivities that day, allowing the community to show our thanks to all that have served our country in all branches of the military. Call 302-398-3530 or visit harrington. delaware.gov for info. May 30 -31 – 2nd annual Grundy Insurance Mid-Atlantic Nationals presented by R&M Performance. All new 2-day for- mat for the Mid-Atlantic Nationals at Dover Speedway. Check out over 2,000* of the northeast’s coolest hot rods, muscle cars, trick trucks, customs and more on display! Experience Good- guys AutoCross racing series action all weekend long featuring the “Duel in Dover” AutoCross Shootout on Saturday!Don’t miss a tire-smokin’ burnout competition and an earth-shakin’ Nitro Thunderfest exhibition presented by Summit Racing! Shop the swap meet and Cars 4 Sale Corral and meet with the aftermarket automotive industry’s top manufacturers and service providers! Show runs 8 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. For info call 800-441-RACE or visit www.dovermotorspeedway.com May 31 - Delaware Leap Frog Bicycle Tour. Enjoy one of two rides – either a 1/2 metric century (32 miles) – which will challenge beginners and intermediate riders, or the full metric century (about 63 miles) for more experienced cyclists. Lake Forest Central Elementary School, 5424 Killens Pond Rd., Felton. Visit www.ddsr.org to register or for more info. JUNE June – The annual African American Festival “Positively Dover”. The annual festival on Legislative Mall in Dover is regularly held on the fourth Saturday in June. For info on this year’s event, call 302-736-0101 or visit www.icclarts.org. J une 7 – Farm to Table Dinner Fundraiser. The Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village, 866 N. DuPont Hwy., Dover from 5 -7:30 p.m. Call 302-734-1618 or visit www.agricultur- almuseum.org. June 7 -2025 Delaware Pride Festival. Speakers, food trucks, kids zone, entertainment from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Legis- lative Green, 411 Legislative Ave., Dover. For info www.dela- warepride.org or call 302-265-3020. June 14 – 2025 Townsend Jazz Festival & Fair. The day will include prizes, food, music, vendors and contests. Townsend Municipal Park, 0 Edgar Road, Townsend. Call 302-378-8082 or visit townsend.delaware.gov. June 14 -Dover Con. Free, family-friendly, indoor/outdoor pop-culture festival with over a hundred vendors, artists & ar- tisans, authors, a cosplay competition, fan groups, pop-culture cars, food vendors, and panel discussions throughout the day. It is produced by the Daily State News with the support of many local businesses, the Dover Public Library and the City of Dover. Visit delmarvaevents.net. June 15 – Father’s Day at Antique Alley of Bridgeville & Downtown Alley of Bridgeville. Free gifts for Dads, while supplies last. Call 302-337-3137 or visit antiquealleyde.com. June 20 – 4th annual Delaware Ballet Golf Outing. Jona- than’s Landing golf course. For info visit delawareballet.org or email info@delawareballet.org.Page 16 2025 Central Delaware Vacation Planner Summer Events - from page 15 See FALL EVENTS- Page 17 June 21- The 47th annual JUNE JAM Music Festival. G & R campground, located at 1475 Gun & Rod Club Road in Houston. Visit www.gandrcampground.com for camping info. Visit www.junejam.com ticket and festival info. June 28 – 2025 Doublecross Bike Ride. The metric century ride is laid out on a figure eight pattern, beginning and ending at Smyrna High School. First go east to Woodland Beach on the Delaware Bay, Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, then pass through the fishing town of Leipsic, before returning to Smyrna to complete a 31-mile ride. Enjoy the Smyrna High School rest stop for a long as you want until you are ready to head west on a second 31-mile loop taking you to Millington Wildlife Demonstration Area in Maryland and the Blackiston Wildlife Area before circling back to the Smyrna High School one last time to finish the 62 mile Doublecross! Visit white- claybicycleclub.org for info. JULY July – Christmas in July at Antique Alley of Bridgeville and Downtown Alley of Bridgeville. Enter to win a Christmas gift basket. Call 302-337-3137 or visit antiquealleyde.com. July 4 - Smyrna/Clayton July 4th celebration. The 4th of July celebration starts with a parade beginning at 9:30 a.m. A carnival, vendors, and activities are usually held at Municipal Park in Smyrna. After dusk, the day concludes with a spectacu- lar fireworks display. The Smyrna Clayton July 4th Foundation and Parade is the oldest July 4th Parade held annually in the State of Delaware. Email skip4515@yahoo.com or visit the Smyrna/Clayton July 4th Foundation on facebook or visit clay- tonhistoricalsociety.org. July 4 –Dover 4th of July Celebration – Dover’s annual Fourth of July celebration takes place in downtown Dover with tours and activities and the city’s museums and histori- cal sites, a patriotic parade, children’s activities, musical enter- tainment, and, of course, fireworks. The day’s events usually include tours of the Old State House leading into the national bell ringing ceremony at 2 p.m. followed by the Reading of the Declaration of Independence, food and craft vendors from 4-8:45, free children’s activities from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. and the parade beginning at 6 p.m. The Old-Fashioned July Fourth Pa- rade organized by American Legion Walter L. Fox Post #2 usu- ally launches on Park Drive, heads west on Loockerman Street, turns left on State Street, and terminates at Water Street. Open- ing remarks usually begin at 8 p.m. leading into the fireworks at 9:15 p.m. over Legislative Mall. Visit www.dover4thofjuly. com or on Facebook or call 302-674-7579 for more info. July 12 – Family Day. Free family event at The Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village, 866 N. DuPont Hwy., Dover from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 302-734-1618 or visit www.agricul- turalmuseum.org. July 17 - July 26 – 2025 Delaware State Fair. A Delaware tradition for over 100 years, the fair takes place at the Delaware State Fairgrounds, US 13, Har- rington. All the traditional excitement of the fair - competitions, entertain- ment, concerts, food and rides. Call 302-398-3269 or visit www.Delawares- tatefair.com. July 17 – 31st Annual Milford Chamber of Com- merce Golf Classic. South- ern Delaware Golf Course, Milford. Shotgun start at 1 p.m. Call 302- 422-3344 or visit www.milfordchamber.com. July 18-20 - NASCAR Weekend at Dover. Speed into Do- ver’s NASCAR Cup race weekend at Dover Motor Speedway for three days of action-packed racing. July 18th General Tire 150 ARCA Menards Series Race, July 19th BetRivers 200, NASCAR Xfinity Series Race, July 20th Autotrader EchoPark Automotive 400 NASCAR Cup Series race. For Ticket avail- ability call 800-441-RACE or visit www.doverspeedway.com July 19 – 45th annual Great Wyoming Buffalo Stampede 5k,10k Run & 5kWalk. Starting and ending at Wyoming Park, the route will take participants through orchards and on coun- try roads. Water is available throughout the course. As partici- pants round the corner to the finish line, they will be greeted with cold towels and spray tents. Water is available in the park, along with peaches and watermelon, courtesy of Fifer Orchards and Camden Wyoming Market. Start time-7:30 a.m. To regis- ter, visit www.ddsr.org. AUGUST Aug. - Oct. - Live Harness Racing at Harrington Raceway & Casino. Post time for Live Harness Racing is 4:30 p.m. Call 888-887-5687 or visit www.harringtonraceway.com for the fall racing schedule. Aug. - Milford Hippiefest. Come celebrate the music of the 60’s and 70’s in the 3rd Annual Hippiefest! Enjoy some amaz- ing music, great food, and wear your favorite tie dye at Causey Mansion, Milford. Benefits the Milford Museum. Tickets are always in demand sopurchase early! Call 302-424-1080, email info@milfordDEmuseum.org or visit www.milforddemuseum. org. Aug. - 46th Annual Harrington Heritage Day. There will be food, craft vendors, demonstrations, a parade and three muse- ums filled with our local history to explore. Call 302-398-7975 or visit harrington.delaware.gov for info. Aug. 2 -Get Peachy at the Wyoming Peach Festival. The fes- tival will run from 9 a.m. til 3:00 p.m. and includes live enter- tainment, craft booths, community organization booths, food booths, and a peach dessert contest. Shuttles will be available from two convenient parking areas, W.B. Simpson Elementary School parking lot on Old North Road and the Wyoming Meth- odist Church parking lot on Wyoming Mill Road, 302-697- 3587 or wyoming.delaware.gov/peach-festival/ Aug. 9 – Shorefire Century. Ride beautiful, scenic routes (35, 65, and 100 miles) taking you through flat to gently rolling farmland in central Delaware as the route follows lesser trav- eled roads from Middletown to Clayton, Hartly, points south, and back. All routes will be marked with route arrows and have SAG support until 5 pm. There are rest stops along the routes at regular intervals, five on the Century route! Visit whiteclay- bicycleclub.org for info. Aug. 14-17 – 2nd annual Caribbean Carnival. Food trucks, bands, entertainment at Legislative Mall, Dover. For info visit www.usacca.org/carnival. Aug. 16-31 – Red Tag Sale Days 50% off deals at Antique Alley of Bridgeville and Downtown Alley of Bridgeville. Call 302-337-3137 or visit antiquealleyde.com. SEPTEMBER Sept. - Clayton Railroad Days Festival – The day usually is full of activities including a parade on Main Street in Clayton, a car show, a bounce house, face painting, balloon art, vendors, food, entertainment, games for children and trackless train rides. For info on this year’s event visit claytonhistoricalsoci- ety.org or contact info@claytonhistoricalsociety.org Sept. – Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village Annual Craft Fair. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 866 N. DuPont Hwy., Dover. Call Delaware State Fair2025 Central Delaware Vacation PlannerPage 17 Fall Events - from page 16 See FALL & HOLIDAY EVENTS - Page 18 Discoverartsevents throughoutDelaware SCANTOLAUNCH 302-734-1618 or visit www.agriculturalmuseum.org. Sept. 5 & 6- 9th Annual Jeepers Back the Blue Jamboree. The two-day law enforcement appreciation event raises money for the families of Officers all over the U.S. The event includes law enforcement demos and displays, Jeeps driving on the Monster Mile NASCAR track, vendors, camping, live music, a kid’s zone, an Honor Guard ceremony with Delaware State Po- lice pipes and drums and lots of raffles at Dover Motor Speed- way. Visit www.jeepersbacktheblue.org. Sept. 5 – National Food Bank Day at Antique Alley of Brid- geville and Downtown Alley of Bridgeville. Bring in a canned good for the Food Bank and you can enter to win a door prize. Visit antiquealleyde.com or call 302-337-3137. Sept. 6 – 39th Annual Amish Country Bike Tour and Race - All ages and abilities are invited to participate in 15, 25, 50, 62 and 100 mile loops through flatland Amish countryside each of which starts and stops at Legislative Mall. Famous pie stop and after tour catered picnic with live music. Fee, 800-233-5368 or visit bikede.org. Sept. 13 – Fall Open House at Downtown Alley of Brid- geville. 112 Market St., Bridgeville. Call 302-337-3137 or visit antiquealleyde.com. Sept. 20 – 25th Annual Riverwalk “Freedom” Festival- En- joy this outdoor festival featuring kid’s activities, live music, vendor, plenty of good food, and fireworks in downtown Mil- ford, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Mil- ford, 302-422-3344 or visit www.milfordchamber.com. Sept. 20- Nov. 8. - Fifer’s Corn Maze and Fall Fest. The extensive fall-themed u-play area and corn maze are open daily Mon.-Sat. Many extras on Saturdays. U-pick pumpkin patch, apple cider samples and fresh apple cider donuts, large variety of Fifer apples and local produce for sale. Call 302-697-2141 or visit www.fiferorchards.com for details. OCTOBER Oct. - St. John’s the Apostle Catholic Church Oktoberfest. The two-day event annually takes place on the grounds of St. John’s campus in Milford and features German food and chil- dren’s games and entertainment. Call 302-422-5123 or visit www.stjohnsmilford.com for info. Oct. - OkDoverFest in Downtown Dover – Enjoy beer, mu- sic, food trucks and more. Visit www.destinationdowntowndo- ver.com for info. Oct.–Annual Paint Dover! 2025 Plein Air painting Event. This art event is part of a commitment to providing high quality arts programming in downtown Dover, and engaging the com- munity members in seeing their beloved downtown through the eyes of talented artists. For info visit www.DowntownDover- Partnership.com. Oct. - First State Heritage Park Colonial Market Fair. Colo- nial Market Fair brings the colonial past to life in this annual, highly-anticipated special event! Walk the ground where 18th century Doverites went to market, browsing among historic trade demonstrators, local and regional vendors selling their food and wares, and talented performers sweeping you back through the centuries. Free admission, rain or shine. Call 302- 739-9194 or visit www.destateparks.com/marketfair/ Oct. – Fall Artisan Market in conjunction with Colonial Market Fair. Discover a world of handmade treasures from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to shop a curated selection of bespoke gifts crafted by the Biggs’ artisan Membership and Delaware by Hand. From jewelry to hand-carved goods, paintings, candles, and more, find the perfect gift ahead of the holiday season at the Biggs Museum, Dover. Visit www.biggsmuseum.org or call Next >