DELAWARE — Communities across Delaware’s coast celebrated Independence Day with time-honored traditions, drawing thousands of people to parades and festivities under sunny skies.
Tractors become floats in the parade
Lewes: Parades of all kinds
In Lewes, the annual boat parade made waves as about 50 decorated boats set sail down the canal Thursday morning. Hosted by the Lewes-Rehoboth Beach Rotary Club, the parade attracted thousands of spectators lining the waterfront.
Spectators enjoy the Lewes Boat Parade
The boats passed by the judges stand at the Fisherman’s Wharf, where Lewes Mayor Amy Marasco served as the emcee. The event supported the Overfalls Foundation, which preserves the historic lightship Overfalls docked in Lewes.
One of the boat parade participants in Lewes
Later in the afternoon, the town’s Doo Dah Parade rolled down Kings Highway, featuring a collection of cars, bikes and trailers turned into homemade floats. Organizers said the informal parade remains a favorite for many families who create quirky displays out of everyday items.
Bethany: Parade and Patriotism
Patriotic floats at the Bethany parade
Down the coast in Bethany Beach, the Fourth of July parade began at noon, stretching for nearly two miles through the heart of town. Classic cars, military vehicles and colorfully decorated floats drew cheers from packed sidewalks.
“It’s so much fun,” said Ann Marie Cullen of Bethany Beach, who looks forward to the event every year.
Dover: History comes to life
The constitution was read out loud in Dover
In Dover, people gathered on The Green for a live reading of the Declaration of Independence, a tradition held in front of the Old State House. Mallory Barrick, who traveled with her family, said it was a fitting way to mark the holiday.
“We always visit a different state for the 4th of July. And so we’ve been to, I think, nine different states now," said Mallory Barrick. "This year, we came to Delaware and decided to come to the capital because that would be fun and historical."
People in Dover took Independence Day back to 1776.
From decorated boats to historic reenactments, Independence Day in Delaware blended patriotism, tradition and community spirit in every corner of the First State.