Family-friendly Water and Nature Festival returns to James Farm Ecological Preserve

The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and the Center for the Inland Bays (CIB) are once again teaming up to host the annual Water Family Fest and Native Plant Sale, a free event designed to connect the community with nature and environmental stewardship.

Set to take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, the event will be held at the James Farm Ecological Preserve, located at 30048 Cedar Neck Road in Ocean View.

Since its launch in 2019, Water Family Fest has served as a platform to highlight ongoing efforts to protect and enhance Delaware’s natural resources.

Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about a range of environmental topics—from wetlands management to water quality and shoreline preservation—through interactive exhibits and activities hosted by more than 35 environmental organizations and non-profits.

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This year’s festival will feature hands-on fun for all ages, including nature-themed games, insect identification, clay crafts, and a reading nook.

Local nurseries will be selling native plants on-site, and food vendors such as Grotto Pizza, Bountiful Bowls, and Bethany Brewing will be on hand to serve up refreshments.

Live music will be provided by The Dragonfly Trinity Band on the event’s main stage.

A highlight of the event is the return of the popular “touch-a-boat” exhibit, where children and families can get an up-close look at DNREC boats used in environmental fieldwork.

The display is expected to include an airboat from the Division of Fish and Wildlife, a shallow-drive vessel, a large Shoreline and Waterway Management boat, and a possible appearance by a U.S. Coast Guard rescue boat.

DNREC staff will be available to explain each boat’s purpose and role in environmental monitoring and response.

Participating nurseries include Inland Bays Garden Center, Coastal Tributaries, and East View Farms.

The event is sponsored by a range of local organizations and businesses, including the Freeman Institute, Annie Powell Coldwell Banker Realty, Sussex Conservation District, Del-Coast Design & Build, and Ashton Pools.

The festival will go on rain or shine, with parking available across the street from the preserve.

Overflow parking will be provided at G&E Hardware on Cedar Neck Road.