Monday, March 20, is the first day of spring, and although there’s still a bit of snow on the ground from Winter Storm Stella, we’re thrilled about the warmer temperatures to come. Here are five ways to celebrate the season’s return.
1. Get your free Rita’s water ice or Dairy Queen cone
For over 20 years, Rita’s has treated customers on the first day of spring with a free Italian Ice. Be sure to make a pit stop for a cool treat. (P.S. Rumor has it that Rita’s is introducing five new flavors this season!)
You can also stop by a participating Dairy Queen for a free vanilla ice cream cone.
2. Tee off at a public golf course
Dust off your golf clubs and enjoy some local deals.
Bayside Golf Course is offering the Freeman 3-Play. Enjoy four rounds of golf on premier Eastern Shore Golf courses for just $249. The package includes one round each at Bear Trap Dunes, Bayside Resort Club and The Bay Club, and you get to replay a round for free.
31806 Lakeview Drive, Selbyville, 436-3400, www.golfbayside.com
At Baywood Greens Golf Course you can participate in the Drive & Dine special. From Sunday through Thursday, set your tee time between noon and 12:30 for 18 holes of golf and enjoy dinner in the Baywood Clubhouse Restaurant, all for just $115.
32267 Clubhouse Way, Long Neck, 947-9225, www.baywoodgreens.com
Play a round at Back Creek, then head over to Back Creek Restaurant. On March 20, burgers and bottles of beer are half off from 5 until 9 p.m.
101 Back Creek Drive, Middletown, 378-6499, www.backcreekgc.com
3. Get your adrenaline pumping at Go Ape!
Delaware’s first and only zip line and treetop adventure course opened for the season on March 18. Experience a journey through the forest canopy, Tarzan swings and zip lines—all with an incredible view of Lums Pond State Park.
Prices: $38 for ages 10–15; $58 for ages 16+; $28 for children under 6
1042 Howell School Road, Bear, (800) 971-8271, www.goape.com
4. Awaken your senses at a local garden or museum
The Orchid Extravaganza is still in bloom at Longwood Gardens. The magical exhibit, which features more than 4,500 vibrant orchids, is on display through March 31. Tickets range from $12–24.
1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, (610) 388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org
The Delaware Art Museum is hosting its Spring Equinox Labyrinth Walk on March 20. Clear your head by stepping into the Labyrinth in the Anthony N. Fusco Reservoir. This event is free of charge, but donations are accepted for maintenance purposes.
2301 Kentmere Pkwy., Wilmington, 571-9590, www.delart.org
5. Get colorful at Painting with a Twist
Enjoy some wine or beer with friends while creating a piece of art to freshen up your home or office. Check locations for specific classes.
400 Suburban Drive, Newark, 442-7611, www.paintingwithatwist.com/newark
17723 Coastal Highway, Lewes, 313-5769, www.paintingwithatwist.com/lewes
1812 Marsh Rd, #409, Wilmington, DE 19810, 302-746-2907, www.paintingwithatwist.com/wilmington-de
​240 Dove Run Centre Dr, Middletown, DE 19709, 302-415-3483, www.paintingwithatwist.com/middletown
