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CAMP Rehoboth hosts annual SunFestival

Labor Day weekend event serves as fundraiser for local nonprofit
In a throwback to the ‘70s with the Mirrorball Mafia comprises (l-r) Barry Swope, Doug Fahringer, Steve Bands, Joe Burchill, Jerome Gittens, Bill Havens, Jake Staggers and Juan Velasco. DAN COOK PHOTOS
Dan Cook
September 4, 2025

What would Labor Day weekend in Rehoboth Beach be without CAMP Rehoboth’s annual fundraiser SunFestival? Held Aug. 30-31 at the convention center, the event offered two nights of fun with headlining entertainment and globally renowned DJs. The end-of-summer celebration sells out every year. All proceeds benefit CAMP Rehoboth programs.

Auctioneer Lorne Crawford hosted the live auction Aug. 30, taking bids for dinners, cruises and dream getaways. The night also included entertainment by comedian and singer Corey Andrew and comedian Zach Zimmerman.

The next day, Rehoboth Beach Convention Center transformed into the ultimate dance party to close out summer with charismatic DJs Robbie Leslie and Joe Gauthreaux.

Both DJs offered an unforgettable musical journey, playing classic mirror-ball memories, dance-floor anthems and the latest club beats.

“SunFestival was an incredibly successful and joyful event,” said CAMP Communications Manager Matty Brown. “Thanks to all the sponsors, volunteers and attendees. Now more than ever, the community gathered together, and CAMP Rehoboth was grateful to create that space of belonging.”

CAMP (Create a More Positive) Rehoboth Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with more than 30 years of serving the LGBTQ+ community in Rehoboth Beach, greater Sussex County and Delaware. CAMP Rehoboth offers essential programming and services that include advocacy, arts and culture; health and wellness; and community building for all, regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation.

 

Angelo Ciro, left, and Lon Miller never disappoint with their flamboyant costumes and bubbly personalities at the SunFestival dance. The annual event raises funds for programs at CAMP Rehoboth.
Comedian Zach Zimmerman takes the stage Aug. 30, bringing his hilarious set to the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center.
Paul Seyfert takes a selfie with his friends at the 2025 SunFestival dance Aug. 31.
Comedian and singer Corey Andrew serves as the opening act Aug. 30.
Representing CAMP Rehoboth are (l-r) board member Michelle Manfredi, board President Leslie Ledogar, Communications Manager Matty Brown, board member Teri Seaton and Executive Director Kim Leisey.
CAMP Rehoboth volunteers Will Perrotta, left, and Teri Seaton await the crowds Aug. 31.
Ready to hit the dance floor are (l-r) Kris Kreider, Jan Grebinger and Sheely Davis.
Dancing to the music of Robbie Leslie are Joann Goussich, left, and Susan Kruba.
CAMP Rehoboth Executive Director Kim Leisey welcomes the sell-out crowd to the Aug. 30 auction and entertainment.
Donald Garverick acts as emcee.
Comedian and singer Corey Andrew sings a Tony Bennett tribute.
Lorne Crawford tries to entice some bids during the auction.
Comedian Zach Zimmerman entertains the crowd Aug. 30.
Eric Korpon, left, has a great time at the dance with Patrick Sommer.
Showing off unique outfits are Parker Watson, left, and Bryan Houlette.
Dancing before the floor is crowded are Richard Thibodeau, left, and Joey Colleli.
CAMP Rehoboth Communications Manager Matty Brown, left, smiles for a photo with Executive Director Kim Leisey.
Keeping the pulse-pounding beat is nationally known DJ Robbie Leslie.
Having a great time at the dance are David Cox, left, and Jose Cox.
The bar is a popular place at the dance.
Angelo Ciro entertains the crowd with a flag routine.
Lon Miller shoots his bubble gun on the dancers.
Serving wine in the VIP lounge is Jefferson Rougeau.
CAMP Rehoboth Executive Director Kim Leisey welcomes the crowd Aug. 30 and informs them of the importance of their support.

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Dan has worked for the Cape Gazette for more than 30 years as a photographer and reporter, covering high school sports and happenings around eastern Sussex County. He won a photography award from the National Newspaper Association, and numerous awards from the Maryland, Delaware, D.C. Press Association. A Delaware native, Dan graduated from Cape in 1972 and returned as a teacher and coach in the 1980s. He retired from the classroom in 2016. He was inducted into Cape High’s Legends Stadium in 2016. In his spare time, Dan enjoys spending time with his wife, two sons, grandchildren and dogs. 

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