Sea Witch Festival fun kicks off Oct. 25 in Rehoboth Beach

The Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce 34th Annual Sea Witch Festival events will take place Friday, Oct. 25 to Sunday, Oct. 27.

Family-fun activities will be held from 1 to 5 p.m., Friday, at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center, on the Boardwalk and at the Bandstand. Attractions include magic and juggling shows, musical entertainment, crafts, bubble fun, face painting, a petting zoo and story time.

Children ages 10 and under are invited to dash down the Boardwalk on their trikes and bikes in the Tyke Bike Race Friday. Registration begins at 2:30 p.m. Relays run from 3 to 4 p.m. Tykes should register at the chamber info table on the Rehoboth Boardwalk where it meets Rehoboth Avenue. All participants are required to wear a helmet when riding.

The main event will see thousands of costumed participants, local bands, decorated cars and floats, and more for the 34th Annual Sea Witch Festival Costume Parade, kicking off at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 26. Attendees should bring slickers and umbrellas in case of magic rain. There is no scheduled rain date. If the parade is canceled, pictures of costumes and floats can be submitted to events@beach-fun.com for judging and awards.

Registration for the Best Costumed Dog Contest starts at 12 p.m., Sunday. Costumed dogs and owners will parade down the Boardwalk from the Henlopen Hotel, letting the crowds get an eyeful. The registration fee is $5 per dog. No livestock, wild animals or reptiles are permitted in the contest. This event is weather dependent; there is no scheduled rain date.

Popular activities and appearances over the weekend include the Maryland Rough Riders and their patriotic tribute on horseback along the beach, artisans and crafters, old-fashioned games, trick-or-treating and more.