🎆 July 4th in Delaware: Where Traditions Thrive in ’25
There’s nothing quite like celebrating Independence Day along the Delaware beaches. From classic small-town parades to spectacular fireworks over the ocean and bay, the First State does the Fourth of July right. Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the weekend, here’s your guide to July 4th festivities up and down the coast.
🎇 Bethany Beach: Parades, Live Music, and Fireworks
Friday, July 4, 2025
Bethany Beach is throwing its biggest party of the year, and you’re invited!
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Noon Parade – Join the lively procession circling Pennsylvania and Atlantic avenues. This year’s theme is Traditions Thrive in ’25. Want to show your creative spirit? Pre-register your float online or sign up at the Float Registration Tent on Central Blvd from 9–11:30 a.m. Prizes await the most creative entries!
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The 1st Delaware Regiment – Watch history come alive as this reenactment unit honors the Revolutionary War’s fighting spirit with fife and drum.
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Music Lineup
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287th Army National Guard Band – Military heritage meets musical excellence.
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Delaware Highlanders – Local bagpipes filling the air with tradition.
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The Dixie Express – Patriotic favorites from this talented new addition.
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Tidewater Brass Band – A toe-tapping New Orleans–style jazz performance.
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Epic Attraction Marching Unit – High-energy marching with majorettes and percussion.
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Rick K Concert – A lively set before fireworks.
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Fireworks Show – Light up the sky around 9:30 p.m. (weather permitting).
🎆 Lewes: Small-Town Charm and Big Fun
July 4 Schedule
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9 a.m. – Old-fashioned kids’ games on Second Street: sack races, egg tosses, and more.
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Noon–3 p.m. – 28th Annual Celebration & Car Show at Trinity Faith Christian Center (free food, games, bounce house, hayrides).
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1:30 p.m. – Boat Parade from Roosevelt Inlet to Savannah Road Bridge.
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5 p.m. – The un-official, always fun Doo-Dah Parade.
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Dusk – Fireworks over the bay off Lewes Beach.
Tips:
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Walk or bike to avoid traffic (it takes up to 90 minutes to clear).
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Bring water and leave dogs at home.
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Details at gofourthlewes.org.
🎇 Rehoboth Beach: Music and Fireworks by the Sea
July 5 Fireworks & Concert
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8 p.m. – The Funsters on the Bandstand.
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9:30 p.m. – Fireworks over the Atlantic Ocean.
Road Closures & Parking
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The Bandstand area closes to vehicles at 6 p.m.
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Eastbound Rehoboth Avenue closes at 8 p.m.
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Parking restrictions in place on Surf Avenue, Laurel Street, and around the Convention Center.
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Pro Tip: Use the DART Park & Ride to skip the hassle.
🎆 Dewey Beach: Bayfront Fireworks
July 4 at 9:30 p.m.
Fireworks light up Rehoboth Bay, visible all over Dewey.
🎇 Long Neck: Fireworks at Paradise Grill
July 3 at 9 p.m.
Catch the show over Indian River Bay a day early.
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Kristen and the Noise perform at 7 p.m.
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Overflow parking and shuttles expected—arrive early!
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Details at paradisegrillde.com.
✨ Tips for a Safe & Fun Fourth
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Stay hydrated.
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Bring sunscreen and bug spray.
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Pack your patience—traffic is heavy.
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Keep pets home (fireworks can be stressful for animals).
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Follow local parking and safety rules.
🎆 Alternative Ways to Celebrate: Local Restaurants & Gathering Spots
Prefer to skip the crowds and watch fireworks from a cozy seat with great food and drinks? Delaware’s coastal restaurants and bars are rolling out the red, white, and blue carpet for you. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner, craft cocktails, or a front-row view of the night sky, these local favorites have you covered:
🍹 Dogfish Head’s July 4th Canned Cocktails at the INN
📍 105 Savannah Road, Lewes | Event Details
Join the team at Dogfish Head and support Go Fourth Lewes, the folks behind Lewes’ fireworks! Stop by between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. for off-centered ales, canned cocktails, and a community vibe—all for a good cause.
🎳 Lefty’s Alley and Eats
📍 36450 Plaza Blvd, Lewes | Visit Lefty’s
Bowling, arcade games, laser tag, plus great food and drink specials. A fun indoor option if you’re looking to celebrate out of the sun.
🎶 Downtown Blues – Bethany Blues (Rehoboth)
📍 Downtown Rehoboth | View Events
Smoked BBQ, bourbon, and blues. Check their site for live music and special July 4th happenings.
🍺 Gary’s Dewey Beach Grill & 38°-75° Brewing
📍 Dewey Beach | Explore Gary’s
Laid-back eats and local brews, just steps from the bay—ideal for a low-key fireworks view.
🌯 Guido’s Burritos
📍 Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk | See Menu
Casual, fun, and festive—perfect for grabbing a burrito and margarita before or after the show.
🦀 Crab House Rehoboth
📍 Coastal Highway | Check Them Out
Feast on steamed crabs and seafood platters in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
🍻 Rail Haus
📍 Lewes | Visit Rail Haus
A beer garden experience with house brews and hearty eats, great for gathering with friends.
🍔 Timothy’s on the Riverfront
📍 Wilmington | Timothy’s Info
If you’re up north, grab a riverside seat, a burger, and enjoy the city fireworks backdrop.
🌈 Purple Parrot Grill
📍 Downtown Rehoboth | View Site
A lively and colorful spot known for its fun crowd and festive drinks.
🍣 Bodhi Kitchen
📍 Downtown Rehoboth | Explore Bodhi
Modern Asian-inspired dishes and craft cocktails, perfect for a refined July 4th dinner.
🌊 The Pines Coastal Tavern
📍 Downtown Rehoboth | See What’s On
Coastal tavern charm with elevated pub fare and cocktails—check their site for live music and specials.
🦪 Drift Seafood & Raw Bar
📍 Downtown Rehoboth | Drift Website
Savor fresh oysters, seafood towers, and craft drinks while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.
✨ Pro Tip: Many of these local spots will be busy—plan ahead with reservations, and check their websites for holiday hours or special menus. Supporting local restaurants means you’re making July 4th even better for the community!
From Lewes to Bethany Beach, Delaware’s July 4th celebrations are full of tradition, community, and unforgettable moments. However you plan to spend the holiday, we wish you a safe, joyful Independence Day where Traditions Thrive in ’25.
✨ Looking for Something Else After the 4th?
If you’re searching for more ways to unwind after the fireworks, why not explore Delaware’s best happy hours and off-season dining deals?
https://delawarebeaches.online/our-favorite-offseason-restaurant-specials-at-the-delaware-beaches/
