????Welcome to our Delaware 2024 Summer Guide ????

Break out the flip-flops, SPF and your favorite Frisbee, it's summertime!

And we've got you covered, Delaware, from that trendy cocktail and great show on the Riverfront to that kick-back beach bar or lazy paddle in Slower Lower.

Welcome to our 2024 Summer Guide, a user-friendly pit stop anytime you want intel on where to go and what to do (and eat and drink!) for quick jaunts, nights out, daytrips and family vacations.

Stick with us through Labor Day weekend for heaps of updates on beach events, dining options, boardwalk fun, water sports and so much more.

All you need to do is kick back and do the hard work of deciding what's on your Bucket List!

Best Delaware festivals and events in July 2024

Besides dancing the night away at a concert, what else is there to do for fun in Delaware in July?

From festivals to theatrical performances and other activities, here are several exciting ways to enjoy the First State this month.

What's new at Delaware State Fair 2024? What to know before you go

The Delaware State Fair celebrates its 105th anniversary this month, but don't let its age fool you — this fan-favorite event still has new surprises up its sleeve.

The fair returns to Harrington on Thursday, July 18, to Saturday, July 27.

Rehoboth Beach now offering pizza box disposal bins on the boardwalk

"Pizza is a staple of a beach diet," a city of Rehoboth Beach Facebook post says. Facts.

But if you've enjoyed a pizza in Rehoboth Beach, there's a good chance you've also spent some time trying to fit the box into an overly full trash can. So the city is trying something innovative: pizza box disposal bins.

Looking for a break from the Delaware beaches? These trips can all be done in a day

The Delaware beaches are always a good time.

But maybe you got a little too much sun and a day in the sand doesn’t sound appealing. Or maybe you’re one of those people who can only sit still for so long, and a few days of lounging around has you antsy.

No matter the reason for your departure, these day trips – all within driving distance of the Delaware beaches – will give you a temporary break from the salt and sand.

Kayaks, paddleboards now available to rent on Assawoman Canal near Bethany Beach

Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are now available to rent on the Assawoman Canal just outside Bethany Beach.

Just in time for the holiday weekend, Bay Venture Outfitters is celebrating their grand opening at 38635 Muddy Neck Rd. in Frankford. It's owner Kelly Benson's second location, with the first being in North East, Maryland, on the North East River.

The southeastern end of the Assawoman Canal, where Bay Ventures operates, leads to the saltwater marshes of Assawoman Wildlife Area and, beyond that, Little Assawoman Bay. Assawoman Wildlife Area, described by Southern Delaware Tourism as "one of the best kept secrets along the Delaware-Maryland Coast," is an over 1,600-acre state-managed preserve, chock full of shorebirds and other wildlife.

Try a dim sum brunch or get breakfast where President Biden dines at the Delaware beach

Looking for a good brunch spot at the Delaware beach?

We have 5 suggestions, including spots frequented by President Biden and a former University of Delaware/Notre Dame basketball coach. Dig in.

The star-studded finale to a beloved horror trilogy is coming. This Delawarean is behind it

He's from Wilmington.

He made his first two films in Delaware.

And nearly two decades later, he's one of the top horror directors in Hollywood and about to drop the most anticipated fright films of the year.

Wilmington's own Ti West is about to close out his beloved horror trilogy ("Pearl," "X") with the nationwide release of "MaXXXine" on Friday, July 5.

Here's how to grill the perfect hamburger

Are you prepared for the pressure of grilling the perfect burger at your gathering?

Are you beginning to think, should I leave the grill top open or closed? How often should I flip the burgers? Should I press them? What's the best temperature for the grill? Do I need to let the burgers rest?

It's almost enough to make you want to boil hot dogs or make hoagies. There's no reason to panic.

Where to find sweet corn in and near Delaware for the Fourth of July

One of summer's greatest delights is picking up a dozen ears of sweet, locally grown corn. Gnawing steamed, grilled or boiled cobs is as much a part of the season as juicy, red tomatoes.

"Knee-high by the Fourth of July” is an old farmer's saw about corn that no longer rings true given modern-day farming practices. Customers can often purchase fresh corn from area grocery stores, markets, local farm stands and farmers markets well before the July holiday.

So where are the best places to get fresh local corn to enjoy at a Fourth of July picnic, upcoming summer meal or gathering?

What does poison ivy look like? How to spot the itchy plant and others like it

Poison oak leaves have three leaflets like poison ivy but with rounded tips. The undersides of the leaves are fuzzy and lighter in color than the top, the Cleveland Clinic said.

Meanwhile, poison sumac looks different because it has clusters of seven to 13 smooth leaflets arraigned in pairs. It grows as a tree, and when fully grown, it can reach up to 20 feet tall.

History in the making: Uncover summer charms in these 5 historic Delaware towns

Despite their small size, many towns in Delaware offer plenty of cultural activities and things to do in the summer. Dating back to the earliest encounters between indigenous inhabitants and European arrivals, the Diamond State's small towns are among the oldest settlements in America. The evolution of villages that later became the incorporated areas of The Ardens, Bellefonte, New Castle, Delaware City and Milford have left enduring legacies to be explored and enjoyed all summer long.

Whether it is community theater productions, lively festivals, colonial history or natural wonder, these towns invite visitors to immerse themselves in the timelessness of old and new.

Here is a sampling of Delaware destinations and what you can look forward to discovering.

Here's your guide to taking your pets to the beaches this summer

What better way to celebrate summer than with your BFF (best furry friend)?

The peak summer season at the Delaware beaches may restrict some of the places where pets will be allowed to roam free, but new legislation loosened constraints in some beach towns, allowing dogs year-round access to the sand and waves.

Here's your guide to taking your dog to the beaches this summer.

Looking for snakes in Delaware? Here are the First State's 5 most 'snake-infested' lakes

Some people expect to see snakes on a plane, but in Delaware, they can usually be found under rocks, high grass, wooded areas and even in your yard. And there is another place people should be aware of them — lakes.

Heat wave in Delaware: 7 cool places to swim that aren't beaches

While the scorching heat might feel like the devil is partying in your kitchen, you can beat the heat by finding a little slice of heaven at several Delaware swimming destinations statewide without navigating the beaches.

Although locals know of other places where you can take a dip, not all of them are necessarily legal or safe. So, here are six places where you can swim safely.

12 fun spots and activities on Wilmington's Riverfront for this summer

The temperature is up, birds are chirping and the need for sunblock is here.

While that means many residents of northern Delaware start leaving for the state's beaches or summer vacations, there's still plenty of us looking for fun at home.

And over the years, Wilmington's Riverfront has emerged as a favorite summer destination with outdoor beer gardens, mini golf, boat tours, music festivals, food festivals, museums and more along the Christina River ― all within a few blocks.

Here are 12 fun spots to check out and what they have planned for this summer.

Be a tourist in your own state: Dinosaurs, millionaire mansions & more at Delaware museums

Be a tourist in your own state.

Here's what's happening at some local museums and attractions in and around Delaware this summer.

Finding learning opportunities for your family's next Delaware beach vacation

Summer is typically defined by its lack of school, the beach by its lack of work or responsibility.

But Delaware offers a host of ways to learn while you explore the state and have fun this summer, at the beaches and nearly everywhere else.

Here are some ideas to get you started.

$80 round trip flights out of Wilmington: Here are the cheapest flights this summer

Now that summer is in full swing, it may be time for an impromptu vacation.

While there have been route changes afoot out of the Wilmington Airport, Avelo Airlines is still offering round-trip service to six southern destinations all summer long.

Delaware Online/The News Journal checked out some of the cheapest routes to take advantage of to each spot, plus some tips on how to book your next trip.

Rocking the Docks: National bands headline Delaware summer concert series. Tickets on sale

Get ready for 10 weeks of musical bliss as the Lewes Concert Series kicks off on Wednesday, June 12. Tickets are on sale now at rockingthedockslewes.com. Kids aged 12 or younger get in free.

"Rocking the Docks" features food trucks, beer from Dogfish Head, and notable music acts like The Record Company, The Amish Outlaws, Lower Case Blues (who just dropped their new album, "Take it For a Ride"), Carbon Leaf and more.

First State kayaking guide: Where to paddle out in Delaware, how to stay safe on the water

The weather is warm and the sun is out, so your paddles should be, too.

If you haven’t been taking advantage of all the kayaking fun a coastal state like Delaware has to offer, you’ve been missing out.

Don’t worry though, we’ve got a complete guide to kayaking in Delaware to help you jump on the wave.

Cape May-Lewes Ferry guide: What to know about pricing, schedules, amenities and terminals

A sunny day is the perfect reason to enjoy the outdoors, and what better way to do that than a trip on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry?

If your ferry knowledge is a bit rusty or if you’ve never taken a ride on it, don’t worry.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, including what to see and do in Cape May, New Jersey, and Lewes, passenger fare and what to expect on board.

5 can't-miss ice cream spots in Delaware

Need to cool off this summer, or just craving a sweet treat?

Luckily, Delaware knows how to do ice cream — just take it from President Biden. Plenty of local family farms based in Delaware have spoiled the state with high quality, homemade ice cream and other treats perfect for summertime.

Here's a short guide to just some of ice cream spots in Delaware you just can't miss this summer.

When is summer solstice 2024? Here is when summer starts this year

The summer solstice marks the first day of summer. In the Northern Hemisphere, it typically occurs in late June. In the Southern Hemisphere, it occurs in late December.

This year in the U.S., the summer solstice is celebrated on June 20, according to Almanac.

Summer weather 2024: Delaware forecast and rain projections

During the middle of January when freezing winds cut to the bone, we begged for the warmth of summer.

Well, you asked for it and Mother Nature is about to deliver. According to AccuWeather.com and the National Weather Service, summer will be hot and wet.

Delaware has dozens of free movies to watch this summer — get your popcorn ready!

You might have 99 problems this summer, but finding a free movie in Delaware isn't one of them.

With screening locations from Wilmington to the beaches, we've highlighted dozens of free movies that you can check out after Memorial Day and into September.

Where are Delaware, Maryland fireworks for 4th of July 2024? Here's a guide for you

It's not too early to ask this super serious question that Delawareans will soon flood Google with: "Where can we see Delaware fireworks for the Fourth of July?''

You have questions. We have answers.

Here's a guide on where to see the sparks fly for Independence Day in the First State, and in Maryland:

14 flavors of Delaware summer festivals to munch on — from Phish fest to Burger Battle

No matter what you're itching to do this summer, there's probably a Delaware festival that will scratch it.

Do you want a summer festival dedicated to dessert, another all about Phish, or one that encourages you to dress up like your favorite superhero or villain?

Here's a diverse mix of 14 festivals across the state you can dive into through August, including a preview of the Delaware State Fair.

Rocking the Docks: National bands headline Delaware summer concert series. Tickets on sale

Get ready for 10 weeks of musical bliss as the Lewes Concert Series kicks off on Wednesday, June 12. Tickets are on sale now at rockingthedockslewes.com. Kids aged 12 or younger get in free.

"Rocking the Docks" features food trucks, beer from Dogfish Head, and notable music acts like The Record Company, The Amish Outlaws, Lower Case Blues (who just dropped their new album, "Take it For a Ride"), Carbon Leaf and more.

Festivals, 4th of July and more: A guide to events at the Delaware beaches this summer

There is so much to do at the Delaware beaches in the summertime.

Most towns have weekly outdoor concerts. The Freeman Arts Pavilion, the Milton Theatre, Clear Space Theatre and Dickens Parlour Theatre have entertainment almost daily. Then there are the dozens of festivals, concerts and other events that are happening everywhere, all the time. It's tough to find time to go to the beach.

Have you visited this Delaware town? It's listed as a top small town for summer vacation

It can be hard to decide which of Delaware’s beaches is the perfect fit for your next trip, but now that one of the First State’s beach towns has been listed as a top small town in the United States for a summer vacation, the choice is much easier to make.

Beach etiquette: Do's and don'ts at the Delaware beaches this summer

We can all benefit from following the golden rule, even on the beach.

The Delaware beaches are a place to play and relax, but even on vacation, being considerate of others is important. Everyone has the same right to enjoy the sand and surf. A little civility assures the experience is pleasurable for all.

Some things might not be obvious. Who doesn't enjoy a game of catch on the beach? Well, the person getting hit by the ball. About to shake out your towel? Wait! Who's downwind and not asking for a sand shower? But we can't believe we have to tell people, in 2024, to Stay. Off. The. Dunes.

Check out these etiquette tips to ensure you'll be courteous and considerate at the Delaware beaches this summer.

Zoos to visit in Delaware, Pennsylvania and NJ for wild animals, fun events

As school is almost out and the weather is getting hotter, these zoos in and near Delaware have something to offer for everyone this summer, from new animals to beer fundraisers.

The Brandywine Zoo, Philadelphia Zoo and Cape May County Zoo have plenty of events planned for families and adults only.

Here are some of the events being held by both, and how to get tickets.

Long line at this popular Dewey Beach bar? There's a way around it, but you need one of these

Just as you might expect, the details about some of The Starboard's history is a bit hazy.

The popular Dewey Beach bar, best known for their pounder cups of Oranges Crushes, has been offering VIP cards to a select few regulars customers for years. But how far back does it go?

Looking for nightlife fun at Delaware beaches? Summer options for adults & for kids

If you're looking for original national acts in Dewey Beach, the Bottle & Cork (1807 Coastal Highway) is still the go-to spot in between their traditional Jam Session Saturdays featuring a cavalcade of cover bands.

DART Beach Bus back in service May 20. Plus, where to find more free beach parking

Whether you frequent the beach during the summer or have a few short trips to visit friends planned, paying for parking can be just as much of a headache as finding it.

While most parking areas at the Delaware beaches require payment or passes to park, some spots are offering limited free parking for whoever gets to it first.

If you want to save some cash this summer, here’s how you can enjoy free parking in Delaware beach towns.

Check out these 9 mouth-watering Delaware food festivals and events focused on food

Are you looking to indulge in a food festival this summer through the fall? Here are some upcoming events heavily focused on food:

Everything you need to know about surf fishing at the Delaware beaches this summer

Everything you need to know about surf fishing at the Delaware beaches this summer

Line in the water. Toes in the sand. Kids frolicking nearby. Beverage in hand.

As summer approaches, so does the busy season for one of the Delaware beaches' most popular activities: surf-fishing.

Once you're oceanfront on Delaware State Parks' seven miles of drive-on beaches, it's bliss, but getting there takes some work. Driving onto the beaches without getting stuck is hard enough for most people, much less navigating the somewhat complex surf-fishing permit and reservation system.

This guide to surf-fishing at the Delaware Beaches will simplify and consolidate everything you need to know. Bookmark it.

As you enjoy Delaware's outdoors this summer, here's how to protect, help wildlife

Delaware’s sandy beaches and pristine walking trails are perfect for a summer getaway, but they’re also home to thousands of animal species that are sharing the land.

Every year, hundreds of seals, turtles, birds and other animals are found on Delaware’s beaches and trails, some critically injured.

Luckily, hundreds of volunteers and expert organizations specialize in wildlife rehabilitation and are ready to step in to help them.

Here is how to enjoy the Delaware outdoors this summer while being mindful of the creatures that live there and what to do if you encounter an injured animal.

Entry fees, annual passes announced for Deauville Beach, on sale beginning May 15

Entry fees and annual passes have been approved for Deauville Beach and will be enforced in late May.

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control announced on May 14 that proposed user fees for Deauville Beach have been approved by the Parks and Recreation Council and DNREC secretary Shawn Garvin. Rates for entry fees and passes were considered using input from the community.

Delaware beaches reinstate meter, permit parking on May 15. How much will it cost?

Metered beach parking is back in effect this month, and it’ll cost you more, too.

Free offseason parking has ended for Delaware beaches, and beach towns have now reinstated pay-to-park fees through meters and permits.

Prices for beach parking also have increased from last year’s rates, so take note of new costs to avoid any surprises at the parking kiosk or in the ParkMobile app.

Delaware camping guide: 7 campgrounds to visit in Delaware, camping tips and tricks

Looking for the best places in Delaware to roll out your sleeping bags and snooze under the stars?

Whether you prefer a rugged camping adventure or a cozy glamping weekend, the First State is brimming with camping options sure to fit your needs.

Here’s your guide to camping in Delaware, including tips to keep in mind and where to pitch your tents.

Hoping for more beach days this summer? Here’s what the Farmers' Almanac is predicting

Getting ready for summer vacation?

You have the dates set, but the family is still wondering what to do. Well, if you want good summer weather, the Pacific Northwest is looking good as is the northern Plains of the country.

Farmers' Almanac released its predictions for the summer, and it's looking hot and wet.

Looking for hotel bargains at Delaware beaches?

A summer vacation at the beach on a budget can be difficult, but here are tips on how to save money on hotels and motels.

Need a getaway? Here’s the Wilmington Airport’s summer flight schedule

Summer is almost here, and if you’re planning on a weekend getaway out of Wilmington’s Airport, a new flight schedule has debuted to get you where you need to go.

After permanently and seasonally suspending certain flight routes, Avelo Airlines, Wilmington Airport’s sole commercial airline, has confirmed the return of select flight destinations, as well as some route changes to familiar routes which will last until Nov. 5.

Here are all the destinations that can be traveled to from the Wilmington Airport this summer.

Dine outdoors at these restaurants in and around Delaware

Eating outside, or with a great view of the outside, is a summer rite of passage. You can enjoy your meal on a beautiful day or under the stars all around the state.

The backyard barbecue vibes are strong at the Crooked Hammock Brewery with locations in Lewes and Middletown. The Summer House in Rehoboth Beach has just opened a new "summer garden" adjoining the Rehoboth Avenue restaurant with chairs, tables with umbrellas, a large fountain and seats at a long counter that faces the town's main thoroughfare.

Downtown Newark offers plenty of al fresco dining at stalwarts like the Deer Park Tavern and Klondike Kate's, which has a new retractable awning, and up-and-comer Hamilton's on Main.

Wilmington has Columbus Inn's popular patio, and picnic table seating at Constitution Yards' seasonal beer garden and Makers Alley, the 5,000-square-foot beer garden, complete with a sleek silver Airstream food truck.

And don't be surprised if you catch a glimpse of the Kalmar Nickel tall ship floating down the Christina at Bank's Seafood Kitchen & Bar, Docklands Riverfront or Iron Hill Restaurant & Brewery.

Here are some more suggestions for dining outdoors:

Where to find pickleball courts in Delaware

As nicer weather sets in, another pickleball season commences.

If you and your friends haven’t picked up a paddle and a ball yet, you’re missing out. But luckily for you, Delaware is home to a growing population of pickleball players and courts.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie eager to see what all the hype is about, here’s a guide to playing pickleball in Delaware.

Your guide to Delaware farmers markets 2024

As temperatures climb and cherry blossoms fade, it's that time of year again: farmers market season.

Delaware has plenty of farmers markets to explore, covering all three counties.

Here are Delaware farmers markets, many opening up in early May, with many accepting EBT/SNAP and FMNP benefits.

How to get the most from a day with the Blue Rocks and other minor league day trips

The Wilmington Blue Rocks began their 31st season in Daniel S. Frawley Stadium on Friday, April 5, against the Brooklyn Cyclones. Club officials said they were ready to welcome fans with a fresh-looking park, new food options and one of the largest promotional schedules in recent history.

Need a low-cost day trip? 12 Delaware nature centers with indoor and outdoor programs

If you’re looking for an easy, low-cost summer “day-cation,” try the nature centers throughout the state. They provide indoor and outdoor education and recreation, with displays and

exhibits —  some with live animals — along with places to hike, special programs with nature experts and even picnics and concerts.

For this story, we focused on nature centers operated by the Delaware Nature Society, state parks and the state Division of Fish and Wildlife. Most of them are free but many at state parks require a fee to get into the park before you can visit the nature center.

Here’s a list of those centers with the information you need to know, plus a few examples of special programs this summer.

Delaware State Parks guide: Amenities, parking, passes and all the fun you can get into

The weather is warming up and it’s time for Delawareans to set its sights on local outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re looking for a chill place to enjoy views of nature, a hike through the forest or a spot to lay out with your beach towel and book, Delaware has plenty of state parks to help you out with that. Seventeen of them, to be exact.

With so many options, it can be difficult figuring out which state park would be best for your activity of choice. Use our guide to Delaware State Parks to make your choices and navigate your way through all the First State has to offer.

12 breweries to visit at the Delaware beaches — or on the way

The Southern Delaware beaches are the birthplace of modern craft brewing in Delaware, ever since Dogfish Head's Sam Calagione decided to open a little brewpub serving chicory stout and maple-vanilla ale.

The zone surrounding the state's southern beaches remains true to these roots, a suds-dense area with more than a dozen brewpubs within a half hour's drive of each other, some of which named among the best in the mid-Atlantic and the country.

Here's a little guide to the breweries and brewpubs of Delaware's Southern beaches, from Lewes to Rehoboth to Dewey to the Inland Bays to a little river town en route to the beach.

The 5 best places for summer hiking in Delaware

From the rocky hills of the Brandywine to the flat woodlands of Trap Pond, Delaware offers a variety of options for hikers.

But hiking in the summer heat is a bit of a different animal. It takes planning and preparation. Then there are the bugs: ticks, chiggers and mosquitoes, to name a few. Anyone who's so much as opened their car door a crack at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge in the summertime knows the flies make it nearly impossible to hike there at that time of year.

With a little bit of research, though, there are plenty of places to hike in Delaware in the summertime that will satisfy your urge for nature and exercise. Here are a few.

Here are the best theme, water parks in driving distance of Delaware

Looking for an amusement or water park to visit this summer? The USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards released its list of the theme and water park award winners. There are a few in driving distance of the First State.

The USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards highlight the very best in travel, food and drink, and lifestyle. Every week, USA TODAY 10Best invites a panel of industry experts to nominate their favorite points of interest and attractions across a wide range of categories. 10Best editors then vet these nominations and select a final set of nominees to be presented to the voting public for four weeks.

Guide to booking at Great Wolf Lodge Maryland, with summer deals and more

Looking for a staycation close to Delaware for the family this summer?

Great Wolf Lodge in Maryland has deals lined up for the summertime ready for the taking that can save you money and win some cool prizes along the way.

Here’s your guide to booking your stay at Great Wolf Lodge.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware Summer Guide: Updates on beaches, fireworks, festivals & more