Since 1933, the Dover Days Festival and Parade has been held as a celebration of Dover's cultural heritage and historical importance as the capital of the First State.

Schedule of Events:

Friday, May 2, 2025

6?PM: 92nd Annual Dover Days Friday Evening Kick-Off

Come out with your family and friends to enjoy food vendors, live music from the Milford Community Band, and fireworks on Legislative Mall!

Location: Legislative Mall

7pm - 8pm: Dover Days Lantern Tour!

Help us kick off Dover Days with a special FREE lantern tour of The Green!

After staking your claim for the best seats in the house for the Friday night fireworks on Legislative Mall, head over to the John Bell House at 7 p.m., grab a lantern and learn the dark side of Dover's history! Afterwards, be sure to enjoy the live music and grab yourself some dinner from one of the many food trucks that will be on site.

Location: First State Heritage Park

Saturday, May 3, 2025

9?AM - 3 PM: 92nd Annual Dover Days Festival

At 9 am... Witness the biggest parade of the year for Kent County march through downtown Dover! Featuring local figures and schools, vintage cars, music, and more from the Delaware community.

After the parade and until 3 pm... Enjoy the Annual Dover Days Festival with a variety of vendors and activities to showcase Delaware's heritage and present day! Attractions include a tethered hot air balloon, bounce houses, a performance stage, historical re-enactors, Maypole dancing, and local food and art vendors.

Admission is FREE, as is parade entry. Tickets are not required to enter the festival as it is open-air spread throughout the historic downtown and capital area. Some activities at the festival charge a small fee, and there are plenty of artisan and food vendors to purchase items from. Cash is preferred, and ATMs will be available onsite. Come one, come all!

9?AM - 3:30 PM: Living History at Dover Days!

During all the festivities of Dover Days, be sure to stop by the John Bell House throughout the day and experience daily life in the 18th century, Staff will be demonstrating a wide variety of trades from candle making, gardening, cooking and more!

During the day, be sure to check out tours at Woodburn from 9-2 and tours of Legislative Hall 10-3!

Location: The Green

2:00 – 2:45 PM: Free Museum Highlights Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through the world of art with our Free Guided Museum Highlights Tour! Join us for an enriching experience as we showcase the finest pieces in our collection.

Our expert guides will lead you through the museum, providing fascinating insights into the history, stories, and significance behind each masterpiece. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this tour is designed to offer a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse artworks on display.

The tour, lasting approximately 45 minutes, promises to be a delightful exploration of artistic expression, culture, and history. Discover hidden gems, learn about the artists' techniques, and immerse yourself in the beauty of our curated exhibits.

This event is open to all, and no registration is required.

Location: Biggs Museum of American Art

Fest Date: May 2 - 3, 2025

Locations:
Legislative Mall, 410 Legislative Ave, Dover, DE 19901
First State Heritage Park, 43 The Green, Dover, DE 19901
Biggs Museum of American Art, 406 Federal St, Dover, DE 19901

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