Good morning, Dover.

Twelve Delaware festivals promise local fun this spring, featuring live music, art fairs, cultural celebrations and family-friendly parades from Wilmington to Lewes.

Events begin as early as April 11 + extend into May with varied programs to enjoy.

Delaware’s unemployment rate hit 5.2% in December 2025 with labor force participation dropping to 59.4% + Gov. Matt Meyer signed Executive Order 18 to speed permitting reviews for housing, energy, and infrastructure.

Experts warn further reforms are needed to boost local growth.

Students aged 13 to 17 interested in first-responder work can join a free summer program by New Castle County Police and Paramedics from July 7 to 17 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) featuring hands-on training and CPR/First Aid certification; applications due May 1 require a 2.0 GPA and no violent record.

A Delaware court ruling let the US Wind project proceed at 3Rs Beach after rejecting Fenwick Island's standing, although permit challenges continue with a Superior Court hearing scheduled for May 14 and the company must reach its 5% construction goal by early summer to secure federal subsidies.

The Delaware Office of Highway Safety is supporting Spring BRAKE during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month to reduce reckless driving.

The initiative will run April 9–12, targeting speeding and unsafe passing on busy New Castle County roads where most crashes occur.

Wawa is recalling 16-ounce iced tea and lemonade drinks sold in Delaware and four nearby states because they may contain an undeclared milk allergen; affected items have been removed from 123 stores with no illnesses reported, and customers are urged to discard the drinks and contact Wawa for a refund.

The University of Delaware men's lacrosse team celebrated senior day with its first Atlantic 10 win, beating Hobart 12-6 on April 4.

Dover Duathlon

8 AM – 12 PM — Schutte Park — Cost details not specified — Compete in a thrilling duathlon in the heart of Dover.

Dover Delaware Women's Connection Breakfast

9:30-11:30 a.m. — Maple Dale Country Club — $25 inclusive — Connect with local women for a breakfast buffet featuring guest speakers and a fundraiser.

FrogTown Walks for Autism

1-7 p.m. — Dover Motor Speedway — $15 — Celebrate 20 years of unity and support for Delaware's autism community with this annual family reunion walk.

Paranormal Cirque Specter

7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. — Dover Mall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling, paranormal journey under a big top with acrobats and illusionists.

Pretty in Pink Spring Shopping & Networking Event

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. — The Ivory Studio and Events — Ticket required — Celebrate women-owned businesses with shopping, networking, and delightful light bites.

93rd Annual Dover Days Festival

5 PM-3 PM — The Green — Free entry — Celebrate Delaware’s heritage with a grand parade, local vendors, and live music at the annual Dover Days Festival.