Second annual Johnnie Walker Beach Celebration held in Lewes

The second annual Johnnie Walker Beach Celebration was held Sept. 9 in Lewes. Sidney and Cynthia Clay founded the event last year.

Johnnie Walker Beach is located at the end of Georgia Avenue. Mayor and council officially named the beach in 2021 to honor Walker, an African American business owner who created a welcoming atmosphere for Black families in Lewes. He operated a restaurant at the site of the beach. Prior to the naming, the site was often referred to as Beach 2.

The celebration was held near the the site of the original pavilion on the once-segregated beach. The pavilion was a place for gathering, socializing and sharing of meals.

Organizers are hoping to make the Johnnie Walker Beach celebration bigger and better each year.