By Mike Finney

DOVER — It has been four years since there has been a Dover Days Festival.

That can be blamed on the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, and lousy weather last year.

However, Chris Cooper, the festival’s committee chair, said planning is well underway for the 90th Dover Days Festival on May 6.

“We are excited to bring the festival back to life after a three-year hiatus due to COVID and severe winds (in 2022), but, based on the response to this year’s sponsorship opportunities, our community is excited,” he said.

More than 70,000 people have attended the free family-oriented event since its inception nearly a century ago.

These days, the event is produced by the nonprofit Dover Days Celebration Committee, with support from the city and Mayor Robin Christiansen.

Though the festival officially opens Saturday morning with a parade of businesses, schools, civic organizations, Dover Air Force Base representatives and elected officials, the previous evening will include a kickoff event, with fireworks, from 5-9 on Legislative Mall.

Saturday will offer arts and crafts presenters, food vendors and music, as well as visits to historic sites and elementary-age maypole dancers on The Green — all to recognize Dover’s role in the American Revolution, which led to Delaware becoming the First State to ratify the U.S. Constitution.

The Delaware State News has signed on again as the media sponsor, with WSFS Bank serving as the hometown presenting sponsor.

Others sponsors include K. Hovnanian Homes, the First State Heritage Park, the Delaware Lottery, Bayhealth, Kent County Tourism, Del-One Federal Credit Union, Shore United Bank and Bally’s Dover.

“Additional sponsorships and vendor spots are available but are moving at a fast clip,” Mr. Cooper noted.

Call 302-233-3633 or email ccooper021@gmail.com for information.