Rehoboth Art Festival 2023: Our Guide to Traveling to Rehoboth

The Rehoboth Art League is a staple of the art community holding their signature summer event, the Outdoor Show at Henlopen Acres. This year, there will be over 100 artists and artisans from all over the country showcasing their work across the 3.5 acres of beautiful coastline. The Rehoboth Art Festival is a staple of the art community in Delaware in 2023, so this will be an event not to miss.

Participating Artists To Be Excited About

Here’s a list of this years artists

Tonya Perry

When I attended art festivals here in 2023 so far, I’ve noticed an increasing number of artists who are innovating with both medium and material, and it’s fascinating to see such creativity. One artist I am excited to meet is Tonya Perry, who is creating hand sculpted clay jewelry. What is so interesting about Tonya is how delicate many of her pieces are, which tells a story of the amount of care she puts into each piece.

Take a look at Tonya’s Website to Learn More

Michael Csuy

Another great example of innovative use of materials is Michael Csuy, who’s creations are absolutely breathtaking. From reclaimed wood tables to large format coffee tables, Michael has found a way to bring out the inner beauty of raw materials that are custom pieces destined to leave a lasting impression in your space.

Check Out Michael’s Work

Kate Norris

One of my favorite artists that I have been following is Kate Norris. Kate showcases innovation and creativity in its purest form through the materials used in her work. Finding vintage and stock wallpaper, Kate takes something old and turns it into something new, innovative and beautiful. What’s most interesting is what happens when you walk up to her work. At first glance you see something beautiful, and then the magic happens as you get closer and see each piece of wallpaper purposefully placed to create the “bigger picture”

Click Here to See Kate’s Work

History of the Rehoboth Art League

The Rehoboth Art League, located in the historic Henlopen Acres region of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1938. This non-profit organization was envisioned and brought to life by a group of dedicated local artists and patrons, led by Louise Chambers Corkran.

Their aim was to create a space that nurtured and promoted the development of arts in the Rehoboth community. The Corkran, Tubbs, and Ventures art galleries housed within the league's premises are named after its founders, symbolizing the legacy they left behind. The historic Homestead at the heart of the campus is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, underscoring the league's significance and standing in the historical and cultural fabric of Delaware.

Over the years, the Rehoboth Art League has grown tremendously, embodying its founders' vision of a vibrant, dynamic, and inclusive artistic community. It has been instrumental in promoting the arts through education, exhibitions, and events that attract thousands of visitors annually.

The league's dedication to education is evidenced in its year-round art classes catering to all age groups and skill levels. The annual Outdoor Fine Art and Fine Craft Show, which has been a staple since 1973, features over 100 artists and craftspeople from around the nation, making it a renowned event on the East Coast's cultural calendar. As it continues to flourish, the Rehoboth Art League maintains its commitment to its founding ethos: to teach, inspire, and preserve the spirit of the arts in Delaware.

Creativity, Festivals & Delaware

While Delaware is the second smallest state and the least populated, Delaware boasts a thriving creative and artistic community that is sought out nationwide. In fact, 68% of all Fortune 500 companies are actually Delaware based with the highest number of corporate entities formed in Delaware also.

The state is also home to the the Firefly Music Festival, Nascar, and the unforgettable Delaware Beaches, so when you head down to the Rehoboth Art Festival in 2023, you are certain to see work from the best artists in Delaware, and also have the opportunity to enjoy some of the best Delaware has to offer. I’m going to list a few of my favorites for your stay, but first, let’s talk about how to get to 2023’s Art Festival in Rehoboth.

 

How to Get to the Rehoboth Art Festival

I would recommend flying into Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) or Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) as they are the closest airports to the Rehoboth Art Festival.

PHL

Here are directions to get from PHL to Rehoboth Beach

BWI

Here are directions to get from PHL to Rehoboth Beach

With either airport, you are looking at a 2 to 2 and a half hour drive to get to Rehoboth for the art festival, so our recommendation is to arrange for a rental car at the Philadelphia or Baltimore airports. It can be quite expensive to try to get an Uber from either airport, and you may end up having a hard time finding a driver that is willing to accept the ride, so a rental care is definitely the best option for the 2023 Rehoboth Art Festival.

 

Top Things to See in Rehoboth in 2023

Rehoboth Beach has a lot to take in, from amazing food & drink on the boardwalk to endless amounts of nature filled outdoors, Delaware won’t disappoint.

 

Our Top Picks for Food and Drink

Revelation Craft Brewing Company

If you’re looking for somewhere to have a cold, perfectly crafted beer after visiting the art festival, Rehoboth’s Revelation Craft Brewing Company is a great choice. Just 7 minutes away from Henlopen Acres Beach Club where the festival will be held in 2023, a quick Uber ride will have you enjoying some of the best craft beer I have had in a while. I was fortunate to have had their Mother-In-Law IPA, it’s definitely worth a trip.

 

Obie’s By the Sea

Obie’s is another great spot to visit after taking in the art festival. Offering the staples of coastal Delaware, Shrimp Cocktails, Mussels, Clams and Crab Cakes, everyone is certain to find something they would love, we certainly did.

If you’re just taking a stroll down the boardwalk, Obie’s has you covered with Margaritas, Wine, Mixed Drinks and Beer to make the beautiful Delaware views that much better.

Either way, Obie’s is a 5 minute drive or Uber from the Festival, and definitely worth checking out.

Check out their menu here.

 

DiFebo’s Restaurant

Lisa DiFebo is a Delaware native and comes from a long family history of restaurant owners. Moving to the Rehoboth area in 1987, she opened DiFebo’s Restaurant & Market to showcase her family's traditional Italian repertoire in a Café & Deli setting. As one of the highest rated restaurants in the area and is a quick 5 minute drive from Henlopen Acres Beach club , the location of the Rehoboth Art Festival in 2023, you will enjoy great wine, fresh pasta and big smiles. DiFebo’s is one of our top picks for a classy, yet relaxed, dinner.

Check out their Menu

 

Eat at the Art Festival!

Traditionally, the League’s Annual Outdoor Show includes many different food and drink options, and 2023 is no exception.

Among them are locally adored vendors such as The Point Coffee House & Bake Shop, a cozy corner known for its comforting beverages and delicious baked goods. Not to be overlooked is Chesapeake & Maine, offering a menu brimming with the freshest, most delectable seafood.

As we step into Weekend 1, make sure to experience Grandpa Mac's food truck, a haven of homestyle cuisine. Meanwhile, Weekend 2 will be seasoned with the mouth watering aromas wafting from Taco Reho's flavorful servings.

Positioned snugly outside the Children's Studio, Blue Scoop's Miss Eleanor trailer is set to share generous scoops of frosty, sweet delights. The best part? Every ice cream treat purchased fuels RAL's Visual Arts Outreach program. This commendable initiative enables free arts education for young minds hailing from Sussex County's underprivileged areas.

In the afternoon, head over to Homestead Garden. Here, you can enjoy a selection of Dogfish Head's exceptional craft brews. Each sip you take contributes to the preservation of RAL's historic gardens, a beautiful legacy painstakingly nurtured to honor the vision of our organization's founder, Louise Corkran.

 

Our Top Places You Should Check Out in Rehoboth

 

The League’s 50th Annual Outdoor Fine Art & Fine Craft Show

Of course we’re going to put the Art Festival on this list because of The League’s rich history of supporting artists and artisans in Delaware. You are sure to see exceptional fine art from all across the country, but it’s not just a fine arts festival. The Outdoor show is nothing short of an unforgettable summer event full of activities, from artists demonstrations, gallery exhibits, great food and live music to beautiful gardens.

The 2023 Rehoboth Art Festival is also a great opportunity to check out the historic Peter Marsh Homestead and Dogfish Head Beer Garden.

 

Bring the Kids to Funland Rehoboth

For the more adventurous type, located directly on the board walk 6 minutes from this years art festival in Rehoboth is Funland. Taking a county fair mixed with an arcade that is dropped on a boardwalk next to Delaware’s beautiful coastline, you would have Funland. A great destination to unwind after taking in the 3.5 acres of Henlopen Acres, especially if the kids need a way to let work off some energy.

 

Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

We can’t talk about things to do in Rehoboth without mentioning the Boardwalk. To satisfy

your sweet tooth you can stop by the famous Dolle’s for their Salt Water Taffy and treats. Dolle’s has been making their Taffy in house since 1927 and is a major attraction on the boardwalk.

Just steps from the beachfront you’ll find a small town feel that is rich with choices for your afternoon. From Pizza and Ice Cream to quaint shops to purchase mementos, you’re certain to find something for everyone.

 

Safety First

If you do venture down to the beach, the Rehoboth Beach Patrol has actively monitored the area for over 100 years to ensure both locals and tourists have a safe and enjoyable time in Rehoboth. The Beach Patrol has two lifeguards at every station, with offices located on the boardwalk to assist with your needs and ensure your safety on the beach.

 

Where to Stay

Vacation Rentals

As with any location, services like AirBNB, VRBO and HomeAway are great choices for housing arrangements if you want a more local feel.

 

AirBNB

August 4th-6th Housing Availability

August 11th - 13th Rental Availability

For around $100 a night on the low end to $350+ on the high end, you will certainly have great options to choose from that meet any budget. Henlopen Acres Beach Club is roughly less than a mile away from the beach and is located on a relatively small road, so finding an AirBNB could simplify the commute to the art festival. However, there are bike and car rentals available, in addition to Uber, Lyft and other transportation services to help you get the most out of Rehoboth.

 

Our Hotel Picks for the 2023 Rehoboth Art Festival

Boardwalk Plaza Hotel

If you are looking for stunning views with a beach house feel, the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel is one of the more unique and stunning hotels you can stay at. We were amazed at how absolutely beautiful the hotel was, and the views simply can’t be beat. You’ll also have the standard amenities of Wifi, Flat Screen TVs come paired with a beautiful ocean front restaurant to relax at the end of the day.

[Check Boardwalk Plaza Hotel Availability][0]

 

Avenue Inn & Spa

Set back from the ocean from by 2 blocks, the Avenue Inn & Spa is mid-range hotel to stay a touch closer to the amazing restaurants and shops in Rehoboth. Once you’ve finished your time at the League’s 2023 Art Festival, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy what the city has to offer, and with a 5 star rating on Trip Advisor, you are instore for an easy and comfortable getaway.

Oh, did we mention the James Beard nominated restaurant?

Check Avenue Inn & Spa Availability

 

Beach View Motel

When I travel, I look for places to stay that have beautiful views and are in close proximity to the places I want to visit. The Beach View Motel is exactly what it sounds like and is perfectly nestled amongst the many shops and restaurants in Rehoboth while having stunning view of the ocean to wake up to. Rated as the #1 Motel in Rehoboth, you simply can’t go wrong.

Check Beach View Motel Availability

 

Can’t Wait To See You at the 2023 Rehoboth Art Festival!

Wherever you stay and spend your time in Rehoboth, you are guaranteed to find something for everyone. Most importantly, you will find the exceptional art at the Leagues 50th Annual Outdoor Show.