- 302-838-7374
- info@fortdupont.org
Menu
As Fort DuPont honors the past and shapes the future, we invite you to join our community. This newsletter shares events and updates that connect Delaware City and celebrate our area’s rich history and natural beauty.
A Look Back at ShakesBeer
Shakespeare, beer, and community under the stars—thank you to everyone who joined us for ShakesBeer at the Fort on June 6. With performances by Delaware Shakespeare, cold drinks from Bellefonte Brewing Company, tasty eats from Bailey’s Dawgs, and Kona Ice keeping things cool, the night was unforgettable. The Fort’s backdrop, string lights, and shared laughter brought the evening to life.
A Strong Start to Fort Folk Fest
Bruce Anthony kicked off our Fort Folk Fest summer series on June 20 with soul-filled sounds and great energy. It was a beautiful evening with good food, good company, and great music. Thanks to everyone who came out, and to Bailey’s Dawgs for keeping bellies full. We’re just getting started—see below for the full summer lineup.
Veterans Find Healing Through Art
Throughout June, veterans gathered at Fort DuPont for a series of creative workshops led in partnership with Healing Through the Arts and Mariposa Arts. These free sessions offered a safe, welcoming space for Delaware veterans to explore artistic expression, build community, and reflect. We’re proud to help create opportunities for connection and healing through creativity.
A Community Celebration for Juneteenth
Delaware City came together on June 19 for a day of reflection, culture, and community to honor Juneteenth. From the morning ceremony at the African Union Church Cemetery to music and poetry at Battery Park, the day was filled with meaning and celebration.
Exploring Native Flora at the Fort
On July 5, Fort DuPont’s Larry MacLaren and interpretive guide Jake Miller led a native flora walk through the park. Participants learned how local plants support wildlife and restoration efforts and discovered ways to bring native landscaping into their own yards. The walk reminded us how much there is to appreciate right in our backyard.
Artists Capture the Fort on Paper
On June 15, Urban Sketchers Delaware brought their sketchbooks and creative spirit to Fort DuPont. Participants of all skill levels spent the afternoon drawing the historic buildings and natural beauty around them. Some were seasoned sketchers, others just beginning—but all came together to create, observe, and enjoy the moment.
August 15 – Fort Folk Fest featuring Mother’s Highway Junction
Come hear the folk power trio blend harmonica, vocals, and upright bass with original songs and heartfelt storytelling.
August 26 – Feathers by the Barracks
Join us at Fort DuPont from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for an evening of feathered fascination with Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research. This free, family-friendly event offers a chance to learn about the vital work being done to protect and rehabilitate wild birds in our region. Bring your curiosity and enjoy historic Fort DuPont!
September 14 – Sketch the Fort
Join Urban Sketchers Delaware from 12 to 3 p.m. at the Fort DuPont Pavilion. Bring your sketchpad and favorite materials and spend the afternoon drawing with fellow artists. Free and open to the public.
September 19 – Fort Folk Fest featuring The Honey Badgers
This Delaware-based folk/Americana duo is known for their beautiful harmonies and moving lyrics. Their music blends violin, harmonica, and guitar with heartfelt songwriting that speaks to love, loss, and connection.
October 18 – Save the Date for From Muskets to Machine Guns: A Day of Reenactment
Step Into the Past and Witness the Stories of Two Defining Wars
March into the past — stay for the fun! Join us for a day of history, play, and autumn celebration on the parade ground.
Architect and Vice President
Bancroft Construction
“As The Friends, we can help celebrate ‘Place’ at Fort DuPont by ensuring access to the beauty of the riverfront, preserving the architecture, and creating a welcoming environment for living, learning, and enjoying history.”
Engagement and Operations Coordinator
Delaware Arts Alliance
“I believe the Friends of Fort DuPont helps embrace Delaware’s rich cultural tapestry by honoring our heritage, leveraging our landscape, and building strong communities.”
The Friends of Fort DuPont is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Fort DuPont’s beauty and history while building a vibrant, community-driven future. We support revitalization through arts, culture, and shared events that connect neighbors and celebrate Delaware City.
Looking for a great place to grab a bite after a day at Fort DuPont? Just steps away from the park, Dolly Spankers is a local favorite, offering hearty seafood, cold drinks, and a warm, welcoming vibe. Housed in a historic 1830s building along Clinton Street, the restaurant offers riverfront views, live music on the weekends, and a menu full of crowd-pleasers.
Stop by and experience the charm of Delaware City for yourself.
From Wilmington take I-95 south to DE Route 1 south toward Dover. Take exit 152 for Delaware City and Route 72. Turn left on Route 72 and follow into Delaware City. Go through the traffic light at Clinton Street and continue over the Branch Canal Bridge. Take your first left, which will put you onto Old Elm Ave and into Fort DuPont. Follow Old Elm Ave along the parade ground (on your right) to the first building on the right, 260 Old Elm Ave.
Fort DuPont is a lifestyle-based community designed around the water and great outdoors.
A place where bicycling, boating, walking, hiking, and birding are the norm and not the exception.