This spring, the event calendar for Coastal Delaware will get a fun new addition: Dockfish Dogs, a brand-new festival at Dogfish Head's Milton Brewery. 

The event brings together the community, entertainment, and a lot of tail-wagging energy, all centered around one thing: celebrating dogs in a big, splashy way.

Kickoff Event with a Fireside Chat

The festivities begin even before the main event. On Friday, May 8th at 5 p.m., Dogfish Head Milton Brewery will host a Fireside Chat featuring Delmarva Dock Dogs and Dogfish Head founder Sam Calagione.

This kickoff gathering invites people to bring their dogs, grab a drink, and enjoy a casual conversation centered around docks, dogs, and the story behind the festival. 

Guests can also enter a raffle for a chance to win a Dogfish Head Yeti dog bowl, which adds an extra fun incentive to stop by.

It sets the tone for the weekend and offers a more relaxed way to engage before the main event begins. 

It is also a nice chance for dog lovers to ease into the weekend festivities in a laid-back and social setting.

Photo courtesy of Dogfish Head Brewery

A New Festival for Dog Lovers and Beer Fans

Dockfish Dogs is set to take place on Saturday, May 9th, bringing together dog lovers and craft beer fans for a full day of fun. 

The event is free to attend, making it an easy addition to any spring weekend plans in Coastal Delaware.

The festival is a collaboration between Dogfish Head and Delmarva Dock Dogs, combining high-energy canine competitions with the great atmosphere the brewery is known for. 

There will be a lot of cheering crowds, sunny weather, and chances to relax with friends, family, and, of course, their four-legged best friends.

Dock Diving Takes Center Stage

At the heart of the event are the dock diving competitions hosted by Delmarva Dock Dogs. 

These competitions showcase skilled canine athletes launching off a dock into the water, competing for distance, height, and speed.

Dogs compete across three main categories:

• Big Air
• Extreme Vertical
• Speed Retrieve

The competitions are open to all breeds, welcoming both experienced participants and newcomers. 

Dog owners interested in joining the action can register directly with Delmarva Dock Dogs ($19-42), making the event not just a spectator experience but an interactive one as well.

Photo courtesy of Dogfish Head Brewery

A Dog Bar Experience Like No Other

One of the most unique features of Dockfish Dogs is the introduction of The Hoppy Hound, a dedicated dog bar created specifically for the event. 

This playful pop-up gives canine guests their own version of a brewery experience.

At The Hoppy Hound, dogs can enjoy:

• Pup cups
• Dog-friendly “beer” made from bone broth
• A selection of treats available for purchase

Image Generated by AI

Local Vendors and Food Favorites

Dockfish Dogs will also feature a wide variety of local vendors and food options, turning the brewery grounds into a full festival environment. 

Pet-focused businesses and community organizations will be there, offering everything from accessories to services.

Vendors include Yard & Bone, Boneyard Pup, P.U.P.S. of Lewes, University of Dog, TDIM3D, Bellaloo Pet Couture, Pawz 2 Clawz, Weather or Not Dog Walkers, Waggies by Maggie & Friends, Sassy Jack Handmade, The Black Dog, Canine Partners for Life, and Savannah Animal Hospital.

Amazing food options will also be available throughout the event, with vendors such as Uncle B’s Kitchen, MomMom’s Cheesecakes, Taco Reho, Flippin’ Waffles, and Sarcastic Chef serving a variety of bites.

Meet Adoptable Dogs and Local Rescues

Beyond the entertainment, Dockfish Dogs also creates an opportunity to connect with local rescue organizations. 

The Brandywine Valley SPCA and Grass Roots Rescue will be present with adoptable dogs, giving attendees the chance to meet pups looking for their forever homes.

For many people, this could turn into one of the most meaningful parts of the day, offering the possibility of leaving the event with a new four-legged family member.

Image Generated by AI

A New Spring Tradition in Coastal Delaware

The dock diving, local vendors, adoptable pets, and hands-on activities all work together to make a great festival to enjoy the season in Milton.

Looking for more events, local updates, and things to do around Coastal Delaware? Keep following the blog and stay engaged so you never miss what’s happening next!

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