Time is going too quickly! Summer is flying by and while we are secretly dreaming of the return of football, we are by no means wishing the summer away. Consequently, this is exactly why we are making it our mission to slow down and enjoy all that Delmarva has to offer during the summer months. We’ve been soaking up the sun lately with trips to all of our local beaches, from Assateague Island to Rehoboth Beach. Of course, it wouldn’t be summer without a few pool days as well. For dining, the options are endless on Delmarva, but this time of year we angle for outdoor seating complete with killer sunset views (look for our upcoming piece on the best outdoor dining spots later this week).

3rd Friday in Downtown Salisbury

When: Friday, July 17, 5pm-8pm

Where: Downtown Salisbury Plaza

What: It seems like we were just strolling the plaza for the June 3rd Friday in Downtown Salisbury, but nonetheless, we are eager to return for this month’s theme: Water World. On tap this month is The Trinidad and Tobago Baltimore Steel Orchestra, who are set to perform on the Plaza. Of course with a ‘Water World’ theme, expect plenty of chances to cool off. St. Peters Episcopal Church will be offering a misting station, Salisbury Jaycees will be selling beer and wine, and Rommel’s Ace Hardware will be bringing out their “Little Kahuna” and “Surf the Wave” water slides. There’s also a water balloon challenge and the “People Car Wash.” The Wicomico County Public Library will be chipping in with some crazy balloons and of course, plenty of books. And as always, area bars and restaurants will be participating with great specials and live entertainment.

Berlin Bathtub Races

When: Friday, July 17, 5pm

Where: Main Street Berlin

What: Berlin holds several unique events throughout the year but the Berlin Bathtub Races certainly take the cake. It’s a fun, family-friendly event for all ages that we never miss. It’s not every day that you get to see a tub race in America’s Coolest Small Town! Since 1991, local businesses around the Berlin and Ocean City area have been competing in the event, spending weeks transforming tubs, bins, carts – basically anything that will hold water –  into art masterpieces in hopes of winning the race, year-long bragging rights, and the coveted trophy. The best part? Businesses can have fun participating in the race while also advertising on the side of their tubs. In addition to the ‘Winner Takes All’ rubber ducky trophy, the first place team also takes home a free banner ad on the Chamber’s website (a $400 value).

Dog Days of Summer at the Ocean Pines Farmer’s Market

When: Saturday, July 18

Where: Ocean Pines Farmers Market at White Horse Park

What: The Ocean Pines Farmers Market is hosting their first annual Dog Days of Summer event, which in addition to celebrating all things canine, will aim to raise funding for the Worcester County Humane Society! It’s no secret that the WCHS is near and dear to our hearts, as are any events that we can bring our pups to. The day will include a special Pooch Plaza with dog-centric vendors such as Tumbleweed & Eddies, Best Friend Collars, Pet Threadz, Those Crazy Canines, Town Cats, and Aunt Meegies Pet Sitting. There will also be a raffle for two baskets chocked full of goodies – all raffle tickets are $1 and will be donated to the WCHS. Of course we will definitely be swinging by at 11am for the demonstration by Worcester County K-9! Also on our radar is the 12-foot balloon dog, Marva, which is joining in the fun thanks to Delmarva Unleashed. To boot, you’ll get to knock out some shopping while you’re there as the OP Farmer’s Market is teeming with local goods and produce this time of year.

Ocean Games/Swim OC/East Coast SUP

When: Saturday, July 18

Where: Ocean City Boardwalk/Beach, 9am-5pm

What: Spend the day at the beach enjoying the 3rd Annual Ocean Games, a WOWSA sanctioned open water swim along the coast of Ocean City. The day includes two main competitions: Swim Ocean City and the East Coast SUP Cup. Swim Ocean City is a WOWSA-sanctioned ocean race that includes 1, 3, and 9-mile ocean swims. The SUP Cup offers 4 and 2-mile paddleboard races for both elite and open levels. More importantly, the event aims to raise funds for the Johns Hopkins Brain and Stroke Rehabilitation Program. Whether you are participating or not, the event is a great chance to enjoy the beach while supporting a great cause.

Epworth Skate Park Skate Day

When: Sunday, July 19

Where: Epworth Skate Park, Rehoboth Beach, DE, 2pm-6pm

What: Head to Rehoboth for an afternoon of skate contests, prizes, giveaways, live music, food and drink for sale, and more. This free event is fun for all ages and offers the perfect chance to get outdoors and enjoy a little summertime fun at the skate park.