Shaped by History & Anchored in Nature

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.

June Events: History, Music, and Shakespeare Return to Fort DuPont

Poster for a talk: 'The Delaware Poisoned Candy Murders of 1898' by Margaret Opsata, June 10 at 6:30 PM at Delaware City Library; includes sponsor logos (FFD Friends of Fort DuPont and Delaware Humanities). Top shows pieces of dark chocolate as a backdrop.June 10 | 6:30 p.m.

The Delaware Poisoned Candy Murders of 1898

Speaker: Margaret Opsata

The series concludes with a fascinating look at a shocking 19th-century Delaware murder case. Historian and writer Margaret Opsata uses court records and firsthand accounts to explore crime, justice and everyday life at the turn of the century.

Learn more


June 12 | 7-9 p.m.

ShakesBeer
Fort DuPont Pavilion

Join the Friends of Fort DuPont in partnership with DelShakes for the second annual ShakesBeer, a fun and memorable evening that brings together live Shakespeare, craft beer, andcommunity at historic Fort DuPont.

Learn more


June 13 | 9 – 11 a.m.

Native Flora Walk: Summer Colors

Fort DuPont State Park

Come explore the Fort’s landscape as summer flowers andnative plants come into full display. This guided walk is a fun andeasy way to connect with nature, enjoy the season, andexperience a different side of Fort DuPont. Whether you love plants or simply want a peaceful morning walk in a historic setting, all are welcome.

Learn more


June 19| 10 a.m.

Delaware City Juneteenth Celebration
Delaware City

The day begins at 10:00 a.m. with a Juneteenth Commemorative Service at the African Union Church Cemetery, honoring the history, legacy, and significance of Juneteenth. From noon to 8:00 p.m., the celebration continues at Delaware City Battery Park with a Black-Owned Businesses andOrganizations Cultural Expo, featuring vendors, community organizations, music, line dancing, and opportunities to support Black-owned businesses.

Learn more


June 26 | 7-9 p.m.

Fort Folk Fest: Shafaat Khan

Fort DuPont Pavilion

Join us for a remarkable evening with Ustad Shafaat Khan, a world-renowned Indian classical musician known for his mastery of sitar, surbahar, tabla, and vocals. From a celebrated musical lineage, Khan has performed internationally and is known for concerts that blend deep classical tradition with a broad, dynamic musical range.

Learn more

Save the Date for July Events

  • July 24 – Fort Folk Fest: Crys Matthews
  • Aug 28 – Fort Folk Fest: Paul and Begonia
  • Sept 19 – Living History Day
  • Sept 25 – Fort Folk Fest: Red Smith

June Volunteer Opportunity Announced for Fort DuPont

Help care for Fort DuPont

A volunteer opportunity is planned for June 30th. Community volunteers play an important role in helping care for andsupport the Fort DuPont campus.

Volunteers will help support light preservation work at two important historic sites: the Hospital/POW Barracks and the Radio/POW Guard Tower. Activities may include identifying artifacts, removing debris, improving site access, andassisting with other basic preservation tasks.

No special experience is needed. All skill levels are welcome, and volunteers will be supported with tools, safety equipment, water, and refreshments.

Event Details 

Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Time: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Meeting Location: 2950 Old Hospital Rd, Delaware City, DE

What to Wear: Closed-toe shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor work

Provided: Tools, safety equipment, water, and refreshments

Looking Ahead

The Friends of Fort DuPont continue to build support for preservation, programming and care across the campus through their Home at the Fort campaign. Community support helps ensure Fort DuPont remains open, active and welcoming.

How to give:
Text FORTDUPONT to 5355, or donate online.

About Friends of Fort DuPont:

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.

Follow Friends of Fort DuPont:

Supporting the Delaware City Food Closet

The Delaware City Rotary Club continues to support the Delaware City Food Closet through an online fundraiser. Donations help keep shelves stocked for families in need.

Community Happenings

At the Library

There is always something happening at the Delaware City Library. From children’s programs and teen activities to crafts, workshops and community events, the library offers opportunities for all ages to learn, create and connect.

Visit the library’s events page to see upcoming programs and activities:

At the Park

Take advantage of crisp winter days with a visit to Fort DuPont State Park. Enjoy the Fort DuPont Battery Hike and explore seasonal programs offered throughout the park.

Around the City

Stay connected with local events and community updates through the Delaware City Newsletter.