REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. — The Sea Witch Festival is celebrating its 35th anniversary this weekend in Rehoboth Beach, marking the occasion with a blend of tradition and festivities.

The festival began in 1990 when Carol Everhart, president and CEO of the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce, envisioned an event inspired by the region’s maritime history. With a $5,000 budget and a passion for local culture, Everhart reached out about an ad in the local newspaper. “In the area was a sea witch clipper ship,” Everhart said. “I decided to call it Sea Witch, after the ship that once traversed these waters.”

Since then, the festival has grown significantly, drawing an estimated 200,000 visitors over its three-day span. “It’s been wonderful to see it grow like this. I never imagined it would get this big,” Everhart said.

The Sea Witch Festival has become a cherished tradition for families, many of whom now return to the event with their children. For local resident Cory Frederick, the festival offers the perfect opportunity to spend time with family and support local businesses. “The weather’s holding out, and it’s just a beautiful fall weekend,” Frederick said. His grandson, he added, is excited for “the games and the treats.”

The festival is also a big boost for local business owners. Jim Flanigan, who has been a vendor at the event for 23 years, said it is his favorite show of the year. “Everyone’s been so friendly. I look forward to this every year,” said Flanigan, owner of Attic Fanatics Antiques.

This year, The Cultured Pearl, a local restaurant, is offering special themed dishes, including a “zombie roll” sushi, decorated with edible blood, along with festive Halloween drinks. “We’ve been part of the festival since its start in 1993,” said Henry Clampitt, general manager of The Cultured Pearl.

Over 100 activities and events are scheduled throughout the weekend, including Sunday’s pet costume parade on the boardwalk.