The Sussex County Land Trust will conclude its 25th Anniversary year with Open Space, Open Strings: Bluegrass by the Bay, a free, family-friendly festival on Sunday, October 18, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Lewes Ferry Grounds.
Presented in partnership with Rocking the Docks, the waterfront celebration will feature live bluegrass, food trucks, a vendor market, local beer and beverages, bounce houses and fall activities for the whole family.
Beer and canned cocktails served during the event has been generously donated by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Thompson Island Brewing Company and Lewes Brewing Company, helping beverage proceeds support the event and SCLT’s conservation work.
The musical lineup includes:
- Wood Flower: Noon–2 p.m.
- Old Town Flood: 2–4 p.m.
“For 25 years, the Sussex County Land Trust has worked to safeguard the land and resources that make Sussex County special,” said Sara Bluhm, SCLT Executive Director. “We wanted to close this milestone year by bringing the community together for an accessible, family-friendly celebration. Open Space, Open Strings is an opportunity to enjoy great music along the bay while supporting the continued protection of Sussex County’s natural and cultural places.”
General admission is free, but advance registration is required. Donations are encouraged.
Limited $50 VIP tickets include access to the VIP tent, two complimentary drinks and private restrooms. SCLT will receive all proceeds from VIP ticket sales, directly supporting its conservation work throughout Sussex County.
Attendees can also help the Food Bank of Delaware by bringing five canned food items to the SCLT information table. Each attendee who donates five cans will receive a complimentary drink ticket.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the afternoon along the waterfront.
Free general admission registration and VIP tickets are available online.
SCLT is also seeking volunteers to assist with event setup and cleanup, guest welcome, beverage stations, the VIP and reentry gates, the SCLT information table, raffle sales and general event support. Volunteers can select a role and shift online.
The Carl M. Freeman Foundation is the Signature Sponsor of the Sussex County Land Trust’s 25th Anniversary celebration. Its generous support has helped make SCLT’s yearlong series of anniversary events possible.
The Sussex County Land Trust (SCLT) is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to safeguarding the land and resources that make Sussex County special. Established in 2001, the Trust works to preserve open space and create a countywide network of parks and preserves that provide public access, support passive recreation, and promote environmental education. Through strategic partnerships, land acquisitions, and community engagement, SCLT is committed to safeguarding the county’s unique landscapes for current and future generations. For more information, visit www.sclandtrust.org.
