Events in Wilmington, DE

A journey on the road turns into a reckoning in #VanLife. Carlsen and Vanessa are influencers who have been living out of a van while coping with the suicide of Clint, who was Carlsen’s brother and Vanessa’s former partner. After a year traveling, she wants to return to everyday life, while he, still haunted by Clint, feels rooted in the vanlife community. Their breakup leads Carlsen to an unexpected companion in Deidra, an older woman living with the impact of intimate partner violence, and they set out together. As the miles pass, their path exposes troubling threads of survivor guilt, impostor syndrome, and a cult linked to killings along a lonely highway. The cast features Michelle Thrush, Justin Derickson, Dakota Ray Hebert, Joel Montgrand, and Tahmoh Penikett.

Everyone is welcome to a designer handbag bingo event featuring ten rounds of standard play. The experience includes a buffet dinner and a cash bar. An optional bonus bingo round and raffle prizes will be available for purchase on site. Admission is $70 and is non-refundable.

Cat enthusiasts can look forward to an evening featuring Jackson Galaxy at HOTEL DU PONT. The renowned expert in feline behavior and animal advocacy shares insights from decades of helping cats and the people who love them in an engaging presentation. The reception includes wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages, and hors d'oeuvres, plus the opportunity to meet some friendly cats. Two ticket options are available. The Cat Lover Pass includes the reception followed by Jackson’s talk. The Top Cat VIP Pass includes everything in the Cat Lover Pass and adds a special meet and greet with Jackson during Social Hour. VIP tickets are limited.

In honor of National Public Land Day, enjoy a guided hike paired with bird watching at First State National Historic Park, led by the superintendent of First Station National Park.

The Randy Johnson Memorial Tournament is a one-day softball event honoring a local legend whose legacy continues to inspire athletes and the community. Competition spans 14U, 16U, and 18U divisions, with team and individual awards celebrating standout performances. The day blends spirited play with remembrance and purpose, and a portion of proceeds supports the American Stroke Association.

At the New Castle Saturday Market, a participant will be on site this year with an upbeat invitation to spark your imagination.

Art on the Green 2026 is a free art event. Artist applications are available only through the official website. The event team and the Historic New Castle Hundred Lions Club will not contact anyone through social media pages or private messages about applications or payments. Be alert for impostors claiming to represent the event, and trust information only when it comes directly from the official website.

The Hope 4 the Homeless 5K turns every mile into meaningful support for Sojourners' Place, a Wilmington shelter that provides much more than a bed. Funds raised help deliver housing stability, recovery assistance, and essential life skills for people navigating addiction and homelessness. This work is not a quick fix, it is a sustained path forward. Participation in the 5K helps fuel each step of that journey.

The Uncle Louie Variety Show brings its classic brand of old-school laughs to The Grand Opera House in Wilmington. Lou Greco and Carlo Russo take the stage with a lively blend of stand-up, sketches, and live music that draws on the experience of growing up Italian American. Their energetic approach spotlights family life, cultural quirks, and everyday moments that connect audiences of all ages. With international popularity and a strong social media presence, the duo keeps their material fresh while sharing plenty of laughter.

Tryouts for the USA Softball High Performance Program welcome athletes in the 14U to 18U range to showcase their skills in front of Team USA athletes and top-level affiliates. The goal is to open a pathway to compete at the highest level with the possibility of representing the USA. Participants can step onto the field ready to elevate their game and make a strong impression.

Enjoy a 90 minute outdoor fitness jam that blends three energizing formats in one session. Start with Pound Fitness with Noel, and RIPSTIX will be provided. Keep moving with Zumba led by Talia, then finish with Strong Nation guided by Kelly. Bring a mat and a water bottle to stay comfortable. Outdoor classes meet on the tennis or basketball courts at Talley Day Park. First-time participants are asked to arrive about 10 minutes early to complete a waiver. If the weather looks uncertain, watch the event discussion for updates. The class may shift to Zoom or be postponed to later in the day, and the Zoom link will be shared in the discussion. Donations are welcome to support licensing, music, equipment, and other expenses. This class is independent and not affiliated with any gym.

Enjoy a relaxed 1.5 hour brunch cruise along the Christina River, departing from the Riverwalk for a breezy start to the day. A full bar is available with classic mimosas and Bloody Marys made with Tito’s, along with non-alcoholic selections. Guests 21 and older can choose bottomless mimosas for $20 per person. Brunch treats from Riverfront Bakery can be added at checkout, with choices like an egg and cheese croissant, ham and cheese croissant, almond croissant, chicken mozzarella turnover, or apple cinnamon turnover. On board, a friendly crew shares local insights while music sets the mood. Settle into bench seating on a partially covered deck that offers both sun and shade, and enjoy the convenience of clean restrooms throughout the trip.

Take in panoramic sights of Wilmington and the nearby countryside from atop Rockford Tower. Please note that access may be suspended in bad weather.

Turn wedding dreams into reality with guidance from a handpicked group of experts. Whether the vision is a sophisticated black-tie celebration or a relaxed, barefoot ceremony on the beach, they offer tailored advice to help create timeless memories for a perfect wedding.

Experience the annual October Delaware Train Show at the Nur Shrine Center, where more than 150 tables showcase vintage and collectible trains, slot cars, and a working layout. An early buyer hour is available with $10 admission, and general admission is $5. Children under 12 attend for free.

Securely dispose of personal paperwork at this shred event hosted by the Delaware Solid Waste Authority. Delaware residents may bring up to two boxes of documents to be shredded at no cost. Properly destroying sensitive papers helps protect against identity theft.

Delcastle Recreational Park hosts a college showcase spanning two days for athletes in the 14U, 16U, and 18U divisions. Each team is scheduled for four games, with live competition and on-field warm ups that create meaningful recruiting visibility. Participants compete alongside NCAA Division II and Division III teams, offering a genuine side-by-side experience in a competitive setting.

Planning for next year’s craft fair has already begun. It is not too early to start thinking ahead.

The Carriage House is set to be a featured porch at Wilmington Porchfest 2026, with sponsorship from the Original Music Association of Delaware.

Dock Rock Rewind returns with an evening of smooth yacht rock and Italian hospitality at St. Anthony’s Lodge Italian Social Club. In the warm setting of a favorite Delaware social club, the band brings the late 70s and early 80s to life with hits by Hall & Oates, Christopher Cross, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Steely Dan, Toto, and more. Expect plenty of moments to sing along with friends, enjoy a drink, and dance into the night, a laid-back way to spend an October evening.

Graham Nash brings a performance to The Playhouse on Rodney Square that looks back over six decades of songs from throughout his career in contemporary music. The set will draw from his time with The Hollies, CSN, and CSNY, along with selections from his solo work. He will be accompanied by Todd Caldwell on keyboards, with Adam Minkoff and Zack Djanikian sharing duties on bass, drums, guitar, and vocals. Tickets are on sale now.

At the Nur Shrine Center, this annual toy show fills two rooms with more than 175 tables of vintage and collectible toys. Early buyer admission is $15, general admission is $7, and kids under 12 get in free.

Returning for its second year, the Wilmington International Film Festival spans several days and celebrates cinema.

This relaxed bar-style trivia experience is hosted by Carly.

Suit up for a superhero-themed 5K run and walk that champions mental health and wellness across Delaware. Participants can run or walk, celebrate courage and community, and wear capes as a symbol of hope. Many take part for a loved one, for personal well-being, or to give back, coming together on the course to spark healing, connection, and a brighter future. Set at Rockford Park, this gathering turns every step into support for those who need it most.

The Delaware Anime Society has rebranded its annual event as Delaware Anime Con, celebrating anime, gaming, and pop culture. It will take place at the Claymont Community Center. Applications for tables are open and almost full. More details will be shared soon.

BEE WILD screens at Theatre N as part of the Wilmington International Film Festival. This uplifting, lyrical documentary explores how bees are essential to human life, why their populations are falling, and what can be done to restore pollinators around the world so ecosystems can thrive again. Highlighting the beauty of these winged creatures, it invites viewers into a visually rich journey with engaging voices and real opportunities to make a difference, emphasizing practical steps to support bees and other insects that pollinate our food. Directed by Josh and Rebecca Tickell. Suitable for all audiences. Tickets are $15, and 75 percent of proceeds benefit the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science.

Second Saturdays at the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation bring hands-on crafts, maritime history, and family fun to the Copeland Maritime Center. This edition, Unmasking Halloween, explores the spooky and surprising origins of favorite traditions such as jack-o'-lanterns, costumes, and trick-or-treating. After learning the stories behind these customs, participants can create a spooky mask to take home. Museum admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Free parking is available in the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation lot across the road from Fort Christina Park.

In recognition of Family History Month, the Delaware Historical Society and the Delaware Public Archives present a program exploring the most commonly used genealogical records along with lesser-known resources that can be invaluable when tracing Revolutionary-era ancestors. The session explains how materials such as Supply Tax records, Journal A, SAR membership applications, and Oaths of Allegiance can aid family tree research and support applications to the Daughters of the American Revolution or the Sons of the American Revolution. The event is free, and registration is required.

Learn the basics of modern style calligraphy in a beginner-friendly class. Each attendee receives a calligraphy starter kit to use and keep. Advance paid registration is required to participate. The fee is $85 and is non-refundable.

At Frawley Stadium, Delaware residents can drop off household hazardous materials, recycle electronic goods, and have documents shredded at no cost. The event will take place regardless of weather conditions.

A guided walking tour in Old New Castle explores the history and culture of Black families who lived and worked in the community across generations. The 2026 offerings build on Dr. Melissa Benbow Flowers’ research at the Read House on the African American population of Old New Castle, adding new source material, an updated route with a map, and a strong emphasis on the years 1776 to 1876. Tickets are $25, capacity is limited, and advance registration is required. Intended for ages 12 and up. Because the historic neighborhoods include uneven walkways, the route may be challenging for participants who need mobility assistance.

Open to everyone, this immersive dinner invites you into a night of strategy, suspense, and playful deception inspired by a popular social deduction TV show. Each guest is given a role, shifting alliances take shape, and the game unfolds between courses as you try to outwit the table. Tickets are $80 per person plus a 20 percent service charge and include a multi course dinner along with a fully interactive experience throughout the evening. A cash bar will be available. A vegetarian option can be requested in advance, vegan meals are not available, and no other substitutions are offered. Country club attire is required, or lean into the theme with attire suited to an evening of mystery and intrigue. Reservations are required, seating is limited, and all ticket sales are non refundable.

In its twentieth year, the DVCC car show celebrates a major milestone, honoring the event’s long history.

The 12th Annual DDX3X Scientific Conference blends in-depth scientific programming with opportunities for families. It opens with a reception and dinner, continues with a day of updates from doctors and scientists working on DDX3X Syndrome, and concludes with an off-site dinner. The final day is reserved for family-focused activities. Registration and hotel arrangements are available, with a dedicated room block at Hotel DuPont. Attendees are responsible for booking and paying for their own lodging. The previous year’s agenda is shared for reference, and the detailed schedule, locations, and speakers will be confirmed closer to the conference.

The Reef Delaware sets the scene for a night that pairs great food with an upbeat atmosphere. It suits a relaxed outing with friends, a date night, or anyone simply looking for a fun evening.

Ashley Sweetman, a singer, musician, and actress recognized for powerful vocals and intimate storytelling, takes the Old Town Hall stage for the first time with a concert honoring Linda Ronstadt and the artists who helped define a classic era of American songwriting. Following two sold-out Tiny Teahouse performances at the Merc earlier in 2024, she presents her debut tribute program that revisits the spirit of the 1970s. The set draws on Ronstadt’s aching hits and California country roots, alongside staples connected to her friends and collaborators. Hear favorites like Blue Bayou, You’re No Good, and Long, Long Time, plus songs made famous by The Eagles, Carole King, Dolly Parton, Bonnie Raitt, and Joni Mitchell. With the perspective of a Delaware native and a heartfelt approach, Sweetman brings these enduring songs vividly to life.

Help preserve Delaware’s past at Route 9 Library by transforming handwritten pages into searchable text. Participants work directly with materials from the Delaware Historical Society, transcribing two to three documents per session so the resulting text can be more readable and accessible in online collection records. This free, community transcribathon is part of a continuing series hosted at Route 9 Library in New Castle County.

Presented by the Delaware Small Business Chamber, this inaugural three county golf tournament spans all of Delaware’s counties and brings participants to Rock Manor Golf Club in New Castle County for a full day of friendly competition and networking. The experience begins with a registration breakfast featuring Bloody Marys, continues with a shotgun start and on-course snacks and beverages, includes a midround grill serving hot dogs and hamburgers, and concludes with a barbecue awards lunch. Contests are planned, including a hole-in-one tied to a Disney vacation, a putting challenge, longest drive, closest to the pin, straightest drive, a marshmallow drive, a drone drop drive, and a buy-a-drive option. Some activities may involve an additional fee. Presented with support from Dempsey's Service Center as the presenting sponsor.

Grand Opening Weekend at the new Kingswood Community Center features an open house for families, residents, and community partners. Attendees can explore the building, meet the people behind the work, and see how the space is designed to support the community for years to come. The experience includes something for every age, with activities for kids, experiences for teens, and opportunities for adults to connect, learn, and engage. Friends and families can discover Kingswood together and get a feel for what this center offers the neighborhood.

Dead Band delivers a high energy celebration of the Grateful Dead’s music at Kelly’s Logan House.

An enchanting gala harvest dinner celebrates the natural poetry of autumn in the Hudson River Valley and honors the lasting influence of Hudson River School artists. The evening reimagines their admiration for expansive landscapes, radiant skies, and the interplay of land and light as a fully immersive, contemporary experience. Guests can expect a carefully curated farm to table menu built around seasonal ingredients and regional traditions, woven into a broader sensory journey of place, art, and community. Tickets will be available, with a pre-sale for Contemporaries and Director’s Circle Members.

Ashley Sweetman, a singer, musician, and actress recognized for powerful vocals and heartfelt storytelling, makes her Old Town Hall debut with a tribute to Linda Ronstadt and the artists who shaped a defining era in popular music. Following two sold out Tiny Teahouse performances at the Merc, the Delaware native presents her first tribute concert celebrating the golden era of American songwriting. The program pairs Ronstadt’s soaring ballads with her West Coast country influences, and salutes classics associated with friends and collaborators such as the Eagles, Carole King, Dolly Parton, Bonnie Raitt, and Joni Mitchell. Expect favorites like Blue Bayou, You’re No Good, and Long, Long Time, shared in a fresh and deeply felt performance that invites listeners to rediscover the spirit of the 1970s one song at a time.

This walking tour through Old New Castle explores the history and culture of Black families who lived and worked there across generations. Building on Dr. Melissa Benbow Flowers’ research at the Read House, the tour includes new source materials, a revised route, and an accompanying map, with a special focus on the years 1776 to 1876. Tickets are $25, space is limited, and advance registration is required. To support a good experience for all, participants should be at least 12 years old. Please note that sections of the route feature uneven walkways that may not be suitable for those who need mobility assistance.

Now in its 13th year, the Eli Seth Matthews Leukemia Foundation Toy Drive is hosted by the Eli Seth Matthews Leukemia Foundation, Inc to honor a son’s memory and bring cheer to children who will spend Christmas in the hospital. New, unwrapped toys collected at participating community locations are delivered to Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware and to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Philadelphia. The venue is Nemours Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children. Please do not donate stuffed animals.