Have no fear: Sea Witch is finally here. But the weekend will be a little abbreviated. Due to severe weather, all outdoor events scheduled for Friday have been canceled. Indoor events are still on.
The this year anticipation was bigger than ever, coming off the disappointment of last year's cancellation.
"It was hard to say we couldn't have it. That's for sure. But everybody understood," said Carol Everhart, President of the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Everyone has a favorite part they can't wait for.
"Those kids are just lit up like Christmas trees. They're so happy, and that's the best part for me," Everhart said.
"Let the people come on down, support us," said Rudy Gonzales, Manger of RB Convenience in Rehoboth Beach.
"The dogs on the boardwalk on Sunday dressed up in costumes," said Amy Evans, who is local to Rehoboth.
The festival was planned in just 90 days, instead of the entire year they normally have. Despite that, all your favorite events will still be there, with the exception of the horse show on the beach.
"The Maryland Rough Riders come in and do a wonderful show both Saturday and Sunday on the beach. Because of COVID and because of their needs, they could not do it this year," Everhart said.
Adding to the excitement for the big return: there's a new Sea Witch balloon. It's an exact replica of the original, Sally, who had to retire in 2019.
You can help name the new sea Witch Balloon on the Chamber of Commerce website . Her name will be announced Monday.
Rehoboth Avenue is already lined with cars saving tailgate spots and people settling in for the weekend. However, it's nothing compared to what it will look like for Saturday's parade. Sea Witch brings about 200,000 people to Borehole over three days.
With that many people, it's so surprise it rivals summer holidays as the biggest weekend of the year for businesses.
"We are ready. We're stocked up on waters, sodas," Gonzales said.
With that in mind, Everhart reminds you to be patient with them.
"We are still short-staffed everywhere you look, but they're doing the best they can and they're excited to have the visitation." she said.
Rehoboth Avenue is closed for parking starting at 1 a.m. Saturday, and cars parked at the median at that time will be towed. No need to worry about walking far or paying for a shuttle.
As of right now, the parade is still on for Saturday, and everyone at WRDE will see you there. Check back here for updates on any schedule changes the rest of the weekend.