Bug and Bud Festival
Millford

Sure, some "bugs are creepy-crawly and just plain icky but not the officially appointed state bug of Delaware." The lovely lady bug presides over this annual festival that also celebrates arbor day. Set along the Mispillion Riverwalk the festival's live entertainment includes music, dance, and--in keeping with the insect theme--there is also a Volkswagen Beetle show. To enjoy the outdoor setting, you can also take one of the organized kayak excursions along the river, fly a kite, or take a ride in a tethered hot-air balloon. Every year, you'll also find "yummy food and fun games." Read more.

Bennett Orchards
Frankford

In the dog days of summer, there's nothing like a fresh-picked peach, and this inviting pick-your-own peach orchard offers a sweet and delicious 18 varieties to choose from. They also have nectarines. Farmed by five successive generations, the orchards have been family owned since the 1860s. In fact, the original farm house is still there. Call before you arrive to find out the picking conditions, then swing by, park in the parking field, swap peach recipes, and get the scoop on how best to pick a peach. And local picking connoisseurs remind you to "be sure to ask for a picking container and a wagon to avoid tired arms." Read more.

Punkin Chunkin
Millsboro

With the orange-red glare, pumpkins bursting in air, this yearly competition is truly an American pastime. Held the weekend after Halloween, this is a contest in which people build contraptions to catapult their jack-o-lanterns in the air. The rules are simple--distance is key, and the pumpkin that goes the furthest wins. To achieve that end, you'll see everything from centrifugal force to human-powered devices that locals spend the good part of a year designing. "Everything is in good fun, although if you don't follow the safety rules, you're outta there!" Read more.

Washington Street Ale House
Wilmington

Located within a restored building with exposed brick walls and oak floors, this Ale House specializes in hand-crafted beers. With 20 beers on tap, locals proclaim the selection phenomenal. Plus you can dabble in wine or single-malt scotch, if that's what you prefer. The American-style food menu has "something for everyone" and the "food is always great." When the sun shines, the deck seats are recommended. But when it's cold, the fireplace is a cozy place to enjoy the upright piano and 19th-century photos. Read more.

Dogfish Head Brewery Tours
Milton

Lawnmower Light. Raison D’Etre. Midas Touch Golden Elixir. These are just some of the names of the beers produced by Dogfish Head brewery, which some say "makes the best pale ales in the country." Try it for yourself by coming in on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday at 3pm in your closed-toed shoes for a brewery tour and free samples. They’ve even paired up with a nearby inn to offer weekend packages for the serious beer lover where you’ll stay in the "brewmaster’s suite," and there will be a cold six-pack waiting for you in the fridge. Read more.