Arts and crafts festivals along the Delaware coast give visitors a chance to take home treasures every bit as unique and one-of-a-kind as seashells collected at the water’s edge.
Savvy vacationers know a unique piece from a seaside arts festival makes an ideal reminder of one’s favorite beach. So pack light, in case you have to find a space in your car for your art festival treasures!
Each year, new artists and artisans can be found alongside perennial favorites – and part of the fun is getting to chat with the artists and sometimes even watch them work.
Here are the details on the 2010 art festivals held in Delaware’s coastal towns:
Bethany Beach Seaside Crafts Show
The Town of Bethany Beach Cultural and Historic Affairs Committee will sponsor the annual Bethany Beach Seaside Crafts Show Saturday, June 6 on the boardwalk from 10am to 5pm.
Rehoboth Art League Outdoor Fine Art and Fine Craft Exhibit
Rehoboth Art League is the place for those with an appreciation for the finest arts and crafts in the region – especially Saturday and Sunday, August 7-8, and 14-15, 10am to 5pm during the organization’s annual outdoor exhibit and sale. More than 100 artists and craftspeople will exhibit their work for sale on the Art League grounds. The event will be held rain or shine. Refreshments will be available for sale. The event will also feature music and children’s entertainment.
Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival
The Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival proves that the resort towns no longer roll up their sidewalks after Labor Day. Held on Saturday, Sept. 11 from 10am to 5pm, the festival features more than 100 artists displaying a wide variety of works – from paintings to pottery and baskets to baubles. All this within a few feet of the Atlantic Ocean – and the beach fries stands!
Be sure to check out the goodies at the silent auction booth. Proceeds benefit arts programs in local schools.
Lewes Historical Society Craft Fairs
Held on the shady and beautiful grounds of the Lewes Historic Complex right in the center of the quaint town of Lewes, this event, held twice each year, has become a much-anticipated event not only in Lewes but in the Mid-Atlantic region as well.
The craft fair attracts nearly 100 craftsmen and artisans of the highest quality and draws nearly 4,000 visitors to each show annually.
The 2010 Craft Fairs will be held July 10 and Oct. 2 from 10am to 5pm at the Historic Complex, Second and Shipcarpenter Streets, Lewes. Admission is $5; children under 12 are admitted free.
Live music adds a festive, fun element; baked goods and refreshments are available for sale.
Southeastern Delaware Artists Studio Tour
This event has grown into a Thanksgiving weekend tradition for visitors and locals alike. Artists throughout the area open their studios Nov. 26 and 27 for tours from 10am-4pm. Maps are available at area businesses or at www.artstudiotour.com. |
