CITY OF LEWES AND DOO-DAH PARADE SPONSOR
TO MODIFY ROUTE DUE TO EXTREME TEMPS

Lewes, Del. – The City of Lewes is encouraging residents and visitors to prioritize their health and
safety this Independence Day weekend as dangerously high temperatures and humidity are forecast
throughout the region.
Out of an abundance of caution, the City of Lewes and the sponsor of the annual Doo-Dah Parade
have modified this year’s event. Traditionally held on the Fourth of July, the parade will feature a
shortened route and a reduced duration to help limit prolonged exposure to the extreme heat.
The City recognizes the Doo-Dah Parade as a cherished community tradition. However, protecting
the well-being of participants, spectators, City staff, volunteers, and public safety personnel
remains the highest priority.
The National Weather Service forecasts indicate prolonged periods of excessive heat, increasing
the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Large outdoor gatherings,
particularly parades that require extended periods of walking, standing, or waiting in direct
sunlight, can significantly elevate these risks. Everyone is asked to plan ahead by taking steps to
stay safe throughout the weekend.
“Our responsibility is to those participating in and attending the parade as well as to the City
employees, police officers, maintenance staff, EMS personnel, volunteers, and all of our public
safety partners,” said City Manager Ellen Lorraine McCabe. “They spend countless hours
outdoors preparing for and providing support at our July 4th events, even in the hottest part of the
day. We also want to ensure our residents and visitors can enjoy the long holiday weekend safely.
Shortening the parade is a thoughtful step that helps reduce everyone’s exposure to dangerous heat
and humidity while allowing our community to continue celebrating together.”
The City encourages everyone participating in Fourth of July activities to take simple but important
precautions, including:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day and limit alcoholic beverages, which can
contribute to dehydration.
• Limit prolonged exposure to direct sunlight whenever possible.
• Take frequent breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Reapply sunscreen regularly.
• Know the signs of heat-related illness and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms
become severe.

“Our Fourth of July traditions are an important part of what makes Lewes such a special
community, and we know how much the Doo-Dah Parade means to residents and visitors alike,”
said Mayor Amy Marasco “By making these adjustments, we’re protecting the health and safety
of everyone involved, from the volunteers and first responders who make these celebrations
possible to the families lining the parade route. We appreciate the community’s understanding and
cooperation as we work together to celebrate Independence Day safely.”
The annual Doo-Dah Parade sponsor, the Hoenen/Shockley Families, expressed support for the
adjustment and emphasized the importance of preserving the tradition while prioritizing safety.
“We know how much the Doo-Dah Parade means to our community, and our goal has always been
to continue this cherished tradition as a fun, family-friendly celebration that brings people
together,” said Hoenen/Shockley Families. “Working with the City to shorten this year’s parade is
the right decision given the forecast. While the route may be shorter, the community spirit will be
just as strong. We appreciate the understanding of our participants, volunteers, and spectators as
we adapt to ensure everyone can celebrate safely.”
The updated parade plan is as follows:

• Parade Route: The parade will begin on Manila Avenue, proceed left onto Kings
Highway, right onto Savannah Road, left onto Second Street, and left onto Market Street.
The parade will terminate on Market Street between Second and Third Streets.
• Line-Up: All parade entrants must line up on Manila Avenue. Participation will be limited
to those lined up on Manila Avenue. Participants staged on Savannah Road will not be
permitted to enter the parade. The Lewes Police Department will lead the parade.
• Start Time: The parade will begin promptly at 5:00 p.m. and is scheduled to last no longer
than 45 minutes.
• Participant Movement: By 5:25 p.m., all entrants must be off Manila Avenue and actively
proceeding along Kings Highway. It is important that all participants maintain a steady
pace to ensure everyone can enter and complete the route in a timely manner.
• Parade Closure: The Lewes Police Department and DelDOT will trail the parade to
provide traffic control and officially end the parade.

The City also announced that the annual Old-Fashioned Games for Kids will take place from 9:00 to
11:00 a.m. on Second Street, allowing families to enjoy the event before the hottest part of the day.
The City appreciates the understanding and cooperation of residents, visitors, and the Doo-Dah
Parade sponsor as everyone works together to ensure a safe and enjoyable Independence Day
celebration.
Additional health and safety information, along with updates on Fourth of July events and
activities, will be shared on the City’s Facebook and Instagram pages. More information is also
available on the City’s Fourth of July webpage: https://www.ci.lewes.de.us/1523/Fourth-of-July