Memorial Day at the Delaware Beaches: Honor, Sunshine, and a Taste of Summer
“Our flag doesn’t fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.”
Memorial Day weekend means a lot of things—sunshine, beach days, cookouts, and the unofficial kickoff to summer. But here along the Delaware coast, it’s also a time to pause, reflect, and honor the people who gave everything for this country.
If you’re spending Memorial Day near Rehoboth, Lewes, Bethany, Dewey, or Fenwick Island, here’s your local guide to doing it right—with meaning, memories, and maybe a few french fries on the boardwalk.
❤️ Start with the Reason We Have This Weekend
Before we jump into the beach towels and barbecue, take a moment to honor the meaning behind Memorial Day. Here’s where to do it:
Rehoboth Beach Memorial Day Ceremony
📍 At the Bandstand, right by the Boardwalk
A moving tribute to those who served. Expect local veterans, music, and a flag ceremony that might just bring a tear to your eye.
🌞 What to Do All Weekend Long
Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth is always buzzing—but on Memorial Day weekend, the town’s energy hits another level.
-
Stroll the boardwalk with a bucket of Thrasher’s Fries.
-
Catch free live music at the Bandstand most nights.
-
Shop the boutiques or grab something sweet from Candy Kitchen.
Bethany Beach
Slower pace, sandy toes, and perfect for families.
-
Grab breakfast at The Penguin and hit the beach early.
-
Check out the Sunday morning beach yoga—it’s free and super chill.
-
Take a quiet evening walk down the boardwalk with a cone from Maureen’s Ice Cream.
Dewey Beach
If you’re here to party, Dewey’s calling.
-
Live bands and DJs take over Rusty Rudder, Bottle & Cork, and Starboard.
-
Try sunrise paddleboarding, then recover with a bloody mary brunch.
-
It’s loud, it’s fun, it’s very “Memorial Day weekend.”
Fenwick Island
Low-key and peaceful—Fenwick is where you go to relax.
-
Visit the Fenwick Island Lighthouse.
-
Get seafood at One Coastal—it’s fresh and unforgettable.
-
Pack a book and soak up the sun away from the crowds.
🎆 Extra Fun for Families
-
Cape Henlopen State Park: Bike trails, WWII bunkers to explore, and an incredible beach.
-
Delaware Seashore State Park: Quiet inlets, bird watching, and fishing spots for the early birds.
-
Movies on the Beach (Bethany or Dewey): Check schedules—movies usually start around dusk and are perfect for winding down the day.
🍔 Eat, Grill, or Let Someone Else Cook
If you’re planning a cookout:
-
Stop by Big Fish Market or Lewes Fish House for fresh shrimp and crab.
-
Pick up rolls, corn, and craft beer from local markets like Rehoboth’s Tomato Sunshine.
Or, go out:
-
Starboard Claw (Dewey): Chill vibes and great exceptional craft cocktails.
-
Lefty’s Alley & Eats (Lewes): Redefine what it means to have fun!.
-
Downtown Bethany Blues(Rehoboth): BBQ right in downtown Rehoboth Beach.
Keep It Respectful
We get it—holiday weekends can be a little wild. But Memorial Day is about remembrance, too.
If you’re hitting the beach, heading to a parade, or just enjoying a cold drink on a warm night—do it with gratitude. Fly your flag, lend a hand to a vet, or take a quiet minute to reflect.
Final Tips for a Great Weekend
✅ Book early—accommodations fill up fast.
✅ Bring sunscreen. The Delaware sun doesn’t play.
✅ Walk or bike when you can—parking can be tricky near the beach.
✅ Stay safe out there. Look out for each other.
Your Memorial Day, the Delaware Way
Whether you’re here for the ceremonies, the surf, or the start of summer, Memorial Day in coastal Delaware is something special. It’s loud and quiet. Fun and meaningful. Joyful and respectful.
So come ready to celebrate the lives of those who made your freedom possible—and make the most of the long weekend, however you choose to spend it.
See you on the sand.
