WILMINGTON, DE — More than 200 artists, live music, local food and family activities will fill Brandywine Park this September as one of Delaware’s longest-running cultural traditions celebrates its 65th anniversary.
The Brandywine Festival of the Arts returns Sept. 12 and 13 to the Josephine Gardens, transforming the park into a two-day outdoor showcase of painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, jewelry, woodworking, glass, fiber arts, mixed media and more.
What began in 1961 as a one-day art show has grown into one of the region’s largest outdoor arts events, drawing approximately 15,000 visitors each year and attracting juried artists from across the country.
Every participating artist is selected through a juried process, giving visitors an opportunity not only to browse original work but also to meet the people who created it.
“It’s remarkable to think about how many lives have intersected through this festival over the past 65 years,” festival producer Barry Schlecker said. “Art has an incredible ability to connect people.”
Schlecker added that the event’s longevity comes from the way it combines art with community, whether visitors are buying their first original piece, discovering a new artist or simply spending time together in the park.
More Than Art Along the Brandywine
The weekend will also include live musical performances, local restaurants and specialty food vendors, craft beer and wine, children’s activities, hands-on creative experiences and family entertainment.
Local rescue organizations will offer pet adoption opportunities, while free health services will include flu shots and COVID boosters.
Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome at the festival.
Families can also take advantage of special Brandywine Zoo pricing throughout the weekend. Admission to the Zoo will be $5 for visitors over age 2 from Friday through Sunday.
Event Details
- What: 65th Annual Brandywine Festival of the Arts
- When: Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: Brandywine Park – Josephine Gardens, 1001 North Park Drive, Wilmington, DE
- Cost/Tickets: $5 per day; children 12 and under are free with a paid adult
- More Info: www.brandywinearts.com and brandywinezoo.org
Free parking and complimentary shuttle service will be available from Incyte, 1801 Augustine Cutoff.
For Wilmington residents and visitors alike, the anniversary weekend offers a chance to celebrate six and a half decades of creativity while supporting working artists and enjoying one of the city’s most scenic public spaces.
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