DOVER, DELAWARE (1/8/2015) A frigid week in January may seem early for thinking of a springtime festival, but Dover Days organizers are getting ready for the annual event that takes place May 1-3.
Registration is now open for community and business participation in what is billed as Kent County’s largest free family festival.
This year’s theme is “Abraham Lincoln,” and programs, speakers and exhibits are being finalized.
The following applications are available and can be mailed or completed online:
• Crafters, artists and artisans, resellers, nonprofit organizations, food and home and trade exhibitors are wanted. Last year, 500 spaces were filled. There are early-bird discounts.
• Car clubs, marching groups, bands, fire companies, floats, schools, civic organizations and commercial entries are invited to participate in the parade, which steps off Saturday, May 2, at 9:30 a.m. Those with pets, costumed and non-costumed, are invited to participate in the annual Kritter Sitter Pet Parade. There is no fee for either except a small one for non-sponsoring commercial entries.
• Businesses and community organizations interested in promoting before an expected crowd of 50,000 are invited to sponsor entertainment, fireworks, Colonial artisans and other aspects of the festival. Opportunities start at $100.
• The Dover Days Car Show is one of the Sunday, May 3, highlights. Nestled beside the Dover Days Cup vintage baseball tournament, this judged car show awards 26 trophies and other prizes. Those who register early save $5.
“Every year, Dover Days grows in size and quality with literally thousands of community participants,” said Cindy Small, executive director of Kent County Tourism, the nonprofit organization that manages the festival. “We were so pleased that Dover Days garnered national attention for Delaware in 2013 and 2014 when it was named a Top 100 USA Event, the first time in history a Kent County event has ever captured the honor. We invite our local businesses and community members to be a part of the county’s showcase event.”
Applications and sponsorship information is available on the event’s website. To discuss vending or exhibiting, contact Michelle Beachler at 302-734-4888, and to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Lorraine Dion at 302-734-7511.