White Marlin Open, Delaware State Fair Highlight the Coastal Events Calendar for Late July/Early August

As you’re all surely aware, there hasn’t been a whole lot going on in the last few months in the way of local events. This is due, of course, to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic here in the region and around the world.

But we’re excited that we actually have quite a few local events to tell you about for this first weekend of August, all taking place at and near the Delaware and Maryland beaches.

There’s definitely plenty to do in the area over the next few days, though events continue to be held with social distancing and other health mandated guidelines in place. But organizers are doing all they can to ensure a good time, while also promoting health and safety.

With that in mind, let’s get right into the meat of today’s blog. We’ve got eight great things to tell you about, so let’s get started.

We begin with a return to the state fairgrounds in Harrington to tell you about the final two days of the 2020 Delaware State Fair, then move on to Ocean City and other local towns and municipalities.

Conclusion of the 2020 Delaware State Fair (July 30-August 1). This year’s admittedly much smaller version of the Delaware State Fair concludes this Saturday evening, August 1.

Attractions at this year’s fair include the always popular carnival that opens each day at 1 p.m., and features nearly four dozen rides. There’s also a good amount of food vendors and plenty of free entertainment, like the wildly entertaining Hollywood Racing Pigs, the inaugural Delaware State Fair appearance of the Disc-Connected K9s and much more.

There is no grandstand entertainment at the 2020 Delaware State Fair due to COVID-19 related health concerns.

Admission to the fair this year is free of charge daily from 8 to 11 a.m., is half-price from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is the full price of  $9 for adults and $4 for ages 6-12 after 4 p.m.

To learn more about everything that’s happening this year at the Delaware State Fair, visit www.delawarestatefair.com.

2020 White Marlin Open (August 3-7). The world famous White Marlin Open returns to Ocean City for the 47th time next week, as some of the world’s best fishermen compete over five days in the world’s largest billfish tournament.

This year’s tournament will have a bit of a different feel due to health concerns, but organizers are working with the Worcester County Health Department to ensure that everyone can have a good time in a safe way.

Weigh-ins will again be held at Harbour Island, for example, but the capacity of spectators this year will be reduced significantly. However, there’s a new family friendly viewing experience for 2020 that will be located at the 3rd Street Bayside ballpark.

This new venue is a spot where people can cheer on the boats and their crews as they head to Harbour Island. Attendees can also view a live stream of the weigh-ins, purchase official White Marlin gear and enjoy concessions as part of a fun day at the beach.

In advance of the event, organizers have released important information for members of the public who plan on attending the event at either Harbour Island or at the ballpark, which we’re copying below.

For Spectators at Harbour Island

• Wristbands will be required to enter Harbour Island
• Wristband distribution will begin at 2 p.m. each day and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis
• Social distancing is strongly encouraged
• Face coverings are required for everyone over the age of 10
• Hand sanitizing stations will be located throughout Harbour Island
• Chairs, blankets and coolers are not permitted at Harbour Island

For Spectators at 3rd Street

• Social distancing is strongly encouraged
• Face coverings are recommended but not required at this location
• Hand sanitizing stations will be located throughout the ballpark
• Coolers are not permitted
• Chairs and blankets are permitted

For more on the 2020 White Marlin Open in Ocean City, visit www.whitemarlineopen.com.

Christmas in July in Rehoboth Beach (July 30-31). The final two days of the 2020 Christmas in July event in downtown Rehoboth Beach are scheduled for this Thursday and Friday, July 30-31.

Enjoy a festive downtown atmosphere, with holiday decorations, Christmas music, great shopping options, wonderful food, dining options and much more.

With the difficult year downtown merchants have experienced thus far in 2020, this is a great chance to come down to Rehoboth Avenue, and surrounding streets, and show your support. It’s greatly appreciated!

Visit Rehoboth Beach Main Street online for more information.

There’s much more going on this weekend! Check it all out here!