In putting together this “Get Outside” issue of Delaware Today, I couldn’t help but think that the month of May is arguably the best month for the state of Delaware to shine—especially after a long, brutal winter. Up and down the state, we are treated to an amazing lineup of first-class events. NASCAR racing at Dover International Speedway, the Wilmington Grand Prix bicycling event and the MidAtlantic Wine + Food Festival are sure to bring many visitors to the state.
Longwood and the beautiful wildflower gardens at Mount Cuba are in full bloom, inspiring our shopping during flower and plant sales at the Delaware Nature Society and the Brandywine River Museum, which, incidentally, hosts one of the best antiques shows in the region this month. May is also the month of the venerable Wilmington Flower Market at Rockford Park—just the place to shop for those Mother’s Day gifts—and Wilmington Garden Day.
It will be interesting to see if “Costumes of Downton Abbey” at Winterthur inspires new tailgate themes during Point-to-Point. (How many times have we watched Lady Mary sidesaddle with some suitor or another?) When the weather cooperates, watching the races and carriage parade is among the finest of ways to enjoy the outdoors, as are all the month’s equestrian events: Radnor Hunt Races, Fair Hill Races and the Willowdale Steeplechase. (Never mind that they happen just over the state line. We’ll claim them as Delaware favorites.)
It’s also the month when we celebrate our Colonial history during events such as Dover Days and A Day in Old New Castle—the oldest home and garden tour in the country. It’s the month we remember those who have given their lives for our country, during large Memorial Day events, like the parade in Newark.
We’re inspired as well by the Wilmington Grand Prix, which turns Wilmington into cycling central for three days, with amateur and pro races, as well as events for the family and everyday riders. Runners have the Delaware Marathon to keep them motivated.
In its second year, the MidAtlantic Wine + Food Festival is creating quite the buzz as it welcomes chefs and winemakers from around the world to work with the increasingly high caliber of chef talent right here in Delaware at restaurants, homes and large venues up and down the state, including our Delaware Culinary Coast. And since we’ve mentioned the Culinary Coast, we look forward to Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial start of summer at the beach.
Oh, and as an avid golfer, and with the season well underway, I shouldn’t forget to tell you about our 32-page golf guide in this issue.
So whether you’re relaxing during Fireworks and Fountains at Longwood, watching a Blue Rocks game at Frawley Stadium or riding the Wilmington & Western Railroad, take a moment to consider the high caliber of things to do in May. Invite some friends from out of town—you’re sure to impress.
