Lewes, Delaware — The City of Lewes continues its long tradition of hosting old-fashioned games for children on Second Street beginning at 9 a.m. on July 4th, 2025. Following the games, the Lewes Independence Day Boat Parade will wind down the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal from Roosevelt Inlet to Fisherman’s Wharf. The boats will depart Roosevelt Inlet at 1:30 p.m. and pass the judges’ reviewing stand at Fisherman’s Wharf around 2 p.m.
Lewes Mayor Amy Marasco will announce the parade, and boats will be judged on patriotic decorations. The awards ceremony will take place at 3:30 p.m. on the deck of the Lightship Overfalls.
The celebrations continue with the unique and quirky Doo-Dah Parade, which forms near Lloyd’s Market on Savannah Road and winds down Kings Highway to Second Street before ending back near Lloyd’s Market. No preregistration is required, and all are invited to join.
The parade’s start time is always unpredictable, adding to its iconic charm. The day will conclude with an annual, fully sanctioned fireworks display launched from a barge off Lewes Beach at dusk. The fireworks are funded by donations from local businesses, residents, and visitors. The Go Fourth Committee, chaired by Russ Palmer, manages fundraising, logistics, and promotion. The event is open to the public. Information about the event is available on the committee’s website — www.GoFourthLewes.org.
