Jazz in Rehoboth, Crafts at Hagley, Children at the Zoo and fun in Middletown. Image created with AI on 10/16
From Hagley’s popular craft fair and the Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival to Halloween celebrations, live opera and community events, Delaware offers something for nearly everyone Oct. 16-18.
WILMINGTON, Del. — Fall is in full swing, and Delaware is serving up a weekend packed with entertainment, family adventures, cultural experiences and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic afternoon shopping for handmade crafts, a night of live music, a family trip to a pumpkin patch or something a little spooky, this weekend offers plenty of reasons to get out and explore the First State.
Delaware LIVE has selected 10 events worth considering for your weekend plans, with activities stretching from the Brandywine Valley to the beaches of Sussex County.
1. Hagley Craft Fair brings artisans to the Brandywine Valley
One of Delaware’s favorite fall traditions returns to the scenic grounds of Hagley Museum and Library this weekend.
The annual Hagley Craft Fair brings together artisans from across the Mid-Atlantic region, offering handmade jewelry, pottery, woodworking, leather goods, textiles, fine art and specialty foods.
The event transforms Hagley’s upper property and Soda House into a marketplace where visitors can meet craftspeople, discover one-of-a-kind gifts and enjoy the natural beauty of the Brandywine Valley.
It’s an ideal outing for those looking to get an early start on holiday shopping while enjoying a Delaware autumn tradition.
To Go: Saturday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. Advance admission is $10 for adults and $8 for children ages 6-14. Children younger than 6 and Hagley members are admitted free. Tickets are valid both days. Information: hagley.org.
2. ConCon Expo offers an unusual look at conspiracy theories and pop culture
For something completely different, ConCon Expo arrives in Wilmington on Sunday with a convention exploring conspiracy theories, curiosity and the stories people believe.
Inspired by the mockumentary The Conspiracists, the event features an expo and an evening movie presentation followed by a discussion with cast and crew.
Organizers describe the gathering as an inclusive event that focuses less on whether conspiracy theories are true and more on why people find them fascinating.
Hosted by King Creative and Uncultured Swine, ConCon promises one of the weekend’s more unconventional entertainment experiences.
To Go: Sunday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the expo, followed by a film presentation and discussion from 5 to 7 p.m. Siegel Jewish Community Center, 101 Garden of Eden Road, Wilmington. Tickets and details: theconspiracists.com/concon.
3. Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival fills the coast with music
The beach isn’t just for summer. This weekend, Rehoboth Beach and neighboring coastal communities become destinations for music lovers as the 37th Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival continues through Sunday.
The annual celebration attracts nationally recognized performers and jazz enthusiasts for several days of concerts, intimate performances and special events.
This year’s featured artists include Boney James, Brian Culbertson, Najee, Gerald Albright and other leading performers.
From smooth jazz to high-energy contemporary performances, the festival offers an opportunity to enjoy world-class music while exploring coastal Delaware during one of its most pleasant seasons.
To Go: Thursday through Sunday, Oct. 15-18, at venues throughout the Rehoboth Beach area. Performance times and ticket prices vary. Information and tickets: rehobothjazz.com.
4. Fifer Orchards Fall Fest celebrates the harvest
For families looking to make the most of fall, Fifer Orchards in the Camden-Wyoming area continues its annual Fall Fest.
Visitors can explore a sprawling corn maze, pick pumpkins and apples, enjoy outdoor attractions and sample seasonal favorites, including apple cider, kettle corn and fresh cider doughnuts.
The farm’s harvest celebration combines traditional agricultural experiences with activities designed to entertain children and adults.
With fall colors, pumpkins and plenty of opportunities for family photographs, Fifer’s remains a popular destination for autumn outings.
To Go: Saturday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with final entry at 4:30 p.m. Fifer Orchards, Camden-Wyoming. Admission is $18 online or $24 at the gate for ages 3 and older. Additional charges apply to some activities. Closed Sundays. Information: Fifer’s Fall Fest details.
5. Emo Night Brooklyn brings Halloween energy to The Queen
Wilmington’s nightlife gets an early Halloween celebration Friday when Emo Night Brooklyn arrives at The Queen.
The Halloween Edition transforms the venue’s Crown room into a dance party featuring emo, pop-punk and alternative favorites.
Guests are encouraged to dress in costume and enjoy a high-energy evening filled with the songs that defined a generation of alternative music fans.
The event offers a change of pace from traditional Halloween parties, combining nostalgia with a spirited dance-floor atmosphere.
To Go: Friday, Oct. 16, at 8:30 p.m. Doors open at 8 p.m. The Crown at The Queen, Wilmington. Event listed as 18-plus. Tickets: thequeenwilmington.com.
6. OperaDelaware brings Mozart’s ‘Don Giovanni’ to The Grand
Opera lovers and newcomers alike have an opportunity to experience one of Mozart’s most celebrated works as OperaDelaware presents Don Giovanni at The Grand Opera House.
The production blends drama, romance, dark comedy and supernatural themes in the story of a charming but reckless nobleman whose actions eventually catch up with him.
Featuring music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the opera offers audiences a chance to experience a major classical production without traveling to Philadelphia or New York.
The performances are sung in Italian with English supertitles.
To Go: Friday, Oct. 16, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 18, at 2 p.m. The Grand Opera House, 818 N. Market St., Wilmington. Tickets listed from $15 to $109. Information: operade.org.
7. Wilmington Rugby hosts Brandywine in regional showdown
For sports fans looking for something beyond football and soccer, Wilmington Rugby Club takes the field Saturday against regional rival Brandywine Rugby Football Club.
Delaware’s oldest men’s rugby club has developed a dedicated following, with its home matches providing an opportunity to experience the fast-paced and physical sport up close.
Rugby combines the movement and endurance of soccer with the contact and strategy of football, creating an exciting atmosphere for spectators.
The fall matchup is a chance to support local athletes and discover a sport that continues to build a following in Delaware.
To Go: Saturday, Oct. 17. The club’s home-match schedule lists Brandywine as the opponent, with a 1 p.m. kickoff indicated in event information supplied to Delaware LIVE. Alapocas Run State Park, 4351 Weldin Road, Wilmington. Confirm kickoff details at wilmingtonrugby.com.
8. Boo at the Zoo offers Halloween fun for families
Halloween arrives early at the Brandywine Zoo, where families can combine a visit with the animals and seasonal activities.
Boo at the Zoo encourages children and adults to wear costumes while enjoying the zoo’s exhibits and Halloween atmosphere.
Unlike some evening Halloween attractions, the zoo’s daytime celebration is designed to be welcoming to younger children.
Families can also take advantage of the opportunity to learn about the animals and participate in educational experiences offered throughout the day.
To Go: Friday through Sunday, Oct. 16-18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Brandywine Zoo, 1001 N. Park Drive, Wilmington. Activities are included with regular zoo admission unless otherwise noted. Information: brandywinezoo.org.
9. NAMIWalks Delaware brings community together for mental health
One of the weekend’s most meaningful community events takes place Saturday along Wilmington’s Riverfront.
NAMIWalks Delaware brings families, volunteers, mental health advocates and supporters together to raise awareness and funds for programs serving people affected by mental illness.
Organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Delaware, the event emphasizes inclusion, understanding and the importance of community support.
Participants will walk a 3-kilometer route along the Riverwalk, with live entertainment, food trucks and family-friendly activities adding to the experience.
The gathering also offers an opportunity for individuals and families to connect with an organization that provides education, advocacy and support throughout the state.
To Go: Saturday, Oct. 17, with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. and the 3K walk starting at 9 a.m. Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park, 80 Rosa Parks Drive, Wilmington. Information, registration and donations: namiwalks.org/delaware.
10. Dark Dover Lantern Tours explore the capital’s mysterious past
History takes a spooky turn in Dover as First State Heritage Park offers its Dark Dover Lantern Tour.
The guided evening experience takes participants through the historic heart of Delaware’s capital, sharing stories of murders, mysterious events and characters whose legends remain part of the city’s past.
Against the backdrop of historic buildings and lantern-lit streets, visitors discover a different side of Dover’s long history.
The walking tour offers an alternative to traditional haunted attractions, combining historical storytelling with the atmosphere of an October evening.
To Go: Friday, Oct. 16. First State Heritage Park, Dover. Tickets are listed at $15 per person. Advance registration is required, and space is limited. Confirm tour times and availability through Delaware State Parks reservations or call 302-739-9194.
More weekend fun: Middletown Family Fun Fest
Families in southern New Castle County have another option Saturday when downtown Middletown hosts its Family Fun Fest.
The free community celebration features games, crafts, live music and face painting, offering an affordable outing for families with children.
To Go: Saturday, Oct. 17, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Downtown Middletown, with visitor entrance at 19 W. Green St. Free admission. Information: Middletown Main Street.
Make the most of a Delaware fall weekend
With festivals, live entertainment, outdoor recreation and community gatherings scheduled across all three counties, the Oct. 16-18 weekend offers something for almost every interest and budget.
For families, Fifer Orchards, the Brandywine Zoo and Middletown Family Fun Fest offer opportunities to spend time together. Music lovers can choose between the Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival, OperaDelaware and a lively night at The Queen.
Those looking for something different can explore ConCon Expo, experience Wilmington Rugby or discover the darker side of Dover’s history.
And for Delawareans seeking to support an important cause, NAMIWalks provides an opportunity to make a difference while enjoying the Wilmington Riverfront.
Whatever your plans, it’s a good weekend to get out, explore and enjoy Delaware.
Delaware LIVE collaborates with a network of professional journalists to cover a diverse range of stories across various fields. Staff Writers include experienced journalists and young professionals. If you have questions, please feel free to contact [email protected] or our publisher, George D. Rotsch, at [email protected]
