Brandywine Festival of the Arts
Brandywine Festival of the Arts: More Than an Art Festival — A Community Celebration for the Whole Family
Wilmington, DE— The 64th annual Brandywine Festival of the Arts, set for September 6–7, 2025, will transform Wilmington’s Brandywine Park into a vibrant, two day celebration of creativity, community, music, food and family fun.
Launched in 1961 with a one day exhibition and a bull roast, the festival has evolved into a nationally recognized event ranking among the top 100 art shows in the U.S., attracting up to 10,000 visitors to the scenic Josephine Gardens along the Brandywine River.
Over six decades, the Brandywine Festival of the Arts has transcended its origins to become a beloved cultural phenomenon in Delaware. While still showcasing exceptional art, with over 250 juried artists from across the country — from painting and sculpture to ceramics, photography, jewelry, woodworking, and fabric arts — it now offers live entertainment, food trucks and local restaurants, educational kids’ activities, wellness support and community engagement that turn it into an inclusive destination for all ages.
It’s not just about art — it’s about community — bringing together families, artists, visitors, and local partners in a shared celebration of creativity and connection.
Under the stewardship of producer Barry Schlecker and Barry’s Events, the festival has expanded beyond exhibitions to deliver a full family friendly experience with:
• Live performances by Opera Delaware, creating a festival soundtrack all weekend
• Food vendors offering everything from Asian fusion and BBQ to local favorites like water ice, pizza “in a cone" and honey treats.
• An interactive Kids Korner featuring face painting, crafts and hands on art workshops.
• Pet adoptions offered by Angel's Retreat, a local no-kill shelter offers adoptable animals, making compassion part of the festivities.
Highlights each year include free flu shots and COVID 19 boosters (with insurance, registration required) courtesy of ACME Markets. Free shuttle service and parking are available at Incyte (1801 Augustine Cutoff) to ease access for all attendees. Leashed pets are welcome on both the festival grounds and shuttle buses
The festival’s presenting sponsor is the WSFSBank, with support from New Castle County, the City of Wilmington, Delaware Department of Tourism and Ourisman Tri State Subaru.
________________________________________
EVENT DETAILS
• What: 64th Annual Brandywine Festival of the Arts
• When: Saturday, September 6 (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.); Sunday, September 7 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
• Where: Brandywine Park (Josephine Gardens), 1001 N. Park Drive, Wilmington
• Admission: $5 per day; children under 12 free with adult
• Parking and Shuttle: Free parking and shuttle available at Incyte, 1801 Augustine Cutoff
Presented by Barry's Events.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule & Tickets
Presented By
More Events You Might Like
ALEX MILLER COUNTRY CONCERT
- Loblolly Acres
- Saturday, September 6
Fairy Fest
- Rockwood Park & Museum
- Presented by New Castle County
- Sunday, September 21
Hagley Craft Fair
- Hagley Museum and Library
- October 18–19
Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival
- Bethany Beach Bandstand
- Saturday, September 6