Delaware Eats & Events — Openings, Closings & This Week’s Buzz

If you’re wondering what’s going on in Delaware this week, from local festivals and outdoor fun to the latest dining buzz, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re planning a weekend out or just want to stay in the know, here’s what’s happening around the state from October 14–20, 2025.

🎉 Events Happening in Delaware This Week

Delaware is full of community gatherings, festivals, and family-friendly fun this week. Here are some can’t-miss happenings worth checking out:

🏃‍♀️ Lace Up for Ag Literacy 5K – October 18

Location: Hopkins Creamery, Sussex County
This annual fundraiser supports agricultural literacy programs across Delaware. Enjoy a scenic run through farmland and stay afterward for local ice cream and live music.

🎷 Van Williamson Trio – Jazz Night – October 18

Location: The Federal, Rehoboth Beach
Jazz lovers, this one’s for you! Spend your evening with smooth sounds, cocktails, and great company at one of Rehoboth’s most charming downtown venues.

🎭 Met Opera Live in HD: La Sonnambula – October 18–22

Location: Cinema Art Theater, Lewes
Experience a world-class opera broadcast straight from the Met — without leaving the beach. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.

🐶 Bark on the Boards – October 18

Location: Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
A community favorite returns! Join the Brandywine Valley SPCA for a fun-filled morning of music, pet parades, and oceanfront energy — all to support animal welfare in Delaware.

🎃 Trunk or Treat & Movie Night – October 18

Location: Majors Field, New Castle
Bring the family for trunk-or-treating, snacks, and a Halloween movie under the stars. Costumes encouraged!

🥕 New Castle Farmers Market – Saturdays through October 25

Location: Historic New Castle Green
Shop fresh local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts while supporting local farmers and artisans.

🍴 Delaware Restaurant Openings, Closures & Dining News

Delaware’s dining scene has been especially active this month, with exciting openings, major closures, and some shakeups you’ll want to know about.

🌟 New & Upcoming Restaurants

First Watch – The beloved breakfast-and-brunch chain has officially arrived in Delaware, expanding its fresh, healthy menu options for early risers.

Raising Cane’s – The wildly popular chicken chain continues its expansion with a brand-new location in Dover. Expect long lines and plenty of that signature Cane’s sauce.

Sweet Toof Candy Co. – A colorful new addition to Delaware’s dessert scene, Sweet Toof brings handmade candy and nostalgic treats to Wilmington this fall.

Old World Breads (Long Neck) – Known for its artisanal loaves and pastries in Lewes, Old World Breads is opening a second location in Long Neck — great news for Sussex County locals.

In total, over 40 new restaurants have opened in Delaware in 2025, spanning everything from mom-and-pop cafés to upscale dining spots.

🚫 Restaurant Closures & Challenges

Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant – In one of Delaware’s biggest restaurant stories of the year, Iron Hill filed for bankruptcy and closed all its locations, including its iconic Newark site. The move marks the end of an era for many local beer lovers.

The Wandering Chef (Newark) – After 13 years serving the University of Delaware community, this beloved soup and sandwich cart closed its window earlier this year, citing rising costs and shifting demand.

Across the state, restaurant owners continue to face challenges with higher ingredient costs, staffing shortages, and rent increases — but Delaware’s culinary community remains resilient, with new ventures stepping in to fill the gaps.

🧭 What to Watch Next

  • More openings coming soon: Keep an eye out for several new cafes and eateries currently under construction in Sussex and Kent Counties.

  • Community support matters: Visiting your local favorites can make a big difference as they navigate the changing dining landscape.

  • Fall flavors are everywhere: Many Delaware restaurants are rolling out seasonal menus featuring pumpkin, apple, and cozy comfort dishes — perfect for the crisp October weather.

✨ Final Bite

From 5Ks and pet parades to sweet shop openings and brunch buzz, Delaware has no shortage of things to do (and eat!) this week. Whether you’re in Wilmington, Dover, or down by the beaches, there’s always a new spot to try and an event to enjoy.

If you want to stay up-to-date on what’s happening each week in Delaware, from events to restaurant news, subscribe to our weekly digest and never miss the local scoop!

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