Welcome to another steamy weekend, folks.
The high in Wilmington today is predicted to be 91, but Sunday should bring some relief with a high of 83 and chance of rain.
If the idea of dipping into the surf is appealing, be sure to check out our weekly beach guide.
We’ve got a lot of fun stuff to share to fill your weekend with other types of fun, from street food to comedy to kayaking and much more.
So let’s dig in.
The cost of everything in Delaware seems a little higher these days, from rent to groceries.
But the good news is there are a bunch of free events where you can go for broke in the First State this summer, from an aircraft museum to a Mexican dance show.
We’ve got fun for you without a free in each county, no wallet required.
Chill out with icy treats
There’s no better time than now to indulge in a cold treat at the Delaware beaches.
Maybe you’re in the mood for a snow cone, Italian ice or a popsicle. There’s nothing like ice to beat the heat and fruity flavorings to satisfy your taste buds. Sometimes, the brain freeze is worth it.
The Delaware beaches have no shortage of places to get a cold treat in the summertime, but there’s always room for more. Here are three new places to satisfy your sweet tooth when the mercury is moving up the thermometer.
Paddling in Delaware
With a coastal state like Delaware, it’s no surprise Delaware’s multitude of waterways lend themselves to kayaking adventures aplenty, and if you haven’t caught this wave yet, you better jump on it.
Whether you consider yourself a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the water, here’s a guide to kayaking in Delaware that includes safety tips and some of the best local spots to paddle out.
How clean is your favorite restaurant?
Have you ever wondered about the cleanliness of a Delaware restaurant, food truck or take-out establishment?
Now you can search a new, easy-to-read Delaware Online restaurant inspection database that shows recent reports from food establishments in all three counties, as well as violations.
The website also includes which establishments have received the most violations in the last 30 days. Visit data.delawareonline.com/restaurant-inspections.
More fun things to do
Tranquility and peaceful energy are what Spokey Speaky brings to the table. The Wilmington outfit has shared the stage with reggae royalty including The Wailers and Toots & The Maytals. The group also has been a favorite at Delaware’s People’s Festival: A Tribute To Bob Marley, a fest created by two of Bob Marley’s friends.
Bellevue State Park (800 Carr Road, near Wilmington) at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, July 16. Free admission, but parking is $4 (in-state) or $5 (out-of-state guests). Visit destateparks.com/concerts or call (302) 761-6963.
For two-plus decades, Tom Papa has been splitting sides and taking names. He’s been featured on comedian Joe Rogan’s podcast multiple times.
Last year his latest Netflix comedy special, “What a Day!,” offered a silly take on post-marriage intimacy, pet problems and how Papa believes men are to blame for most of life’s issues.
Freeman Arts Pavilion (31806 Lakeview Drive, near Selbyville) at 7 p.m. Sunday, July 16. Tickets are $39-$54. Visit freemanarts.org or (302) 436-3015.
You can hit the street and dive into some tasty food this weekend.
The Wilmington Street Food Festival is a two-day event all about making your taste buds happy, offering nibbles from all over the world. The festival includes a cheese fry fountain and bar, crazy eating challenges and more.
There’s also entertainment like a breakdancing expo, ax throwing and other fun.
Tickets per day start at $14.99 (plus fees). Visit Instagram (@wilmingtonstreetfoodfestival).
Tubman Garrett Riverfront Park (Rosa Parks Drive, Wilmington) from noon to 8 p.m., Saturday, July 15, and Sunday, July 16.
One of Delaware’s best-kept secrets is the Shady Grove Music Fest. The event features a day full of music, along with food trucks, beer and wine for sale. Feel free to bring a lawn chair and relax at the fest.
The lineup includes Purling Hiss, Toby Leaman (Dr. Dog), Slot, Wasted Arrows, Expo, Lizdelise, Russy, HaHa Charade, Captain’s Daughter and Righteous Jolly.
Shady Grove (2126 The Highway, Arden) from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 15. Tickets are $29. Visit ardenconcerts.com.
