Hippie Fest 2025 to Transform Milford into a Retro Celebration of Peace, Love, and Music

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MILFORD — Tie-dye, bell bottoms, and the free-spirited sounds of the 1960s and ’70s will return to Milford when the Milford Museum hosts its annual Hippie Fest on Saturday, Aug. 16. The celebration, now a late-summer tradition, will run from 3 to 8 p.m. on the shaded, historic grounds of Causey Mansion, 2 Causey Ave., offering an afternoon and evening of music, food, and community fun.

Headlining the event is The Funsters, a high-energy band beloved throughout the region for their crowd-pleasing mix of rock, R&B, and soul classics. Known for their ability to get audiences dancing, The Funsters will deliver sets that pay tribute to the soundtrack of the hippie era. Between their performances, DJ Dana McDonald will keep the energy flowing with a curated playlist of iconic hits from the Woodstock generation.

Festivalgoers can expect more than just music. The grounds will feature an array of food trucks, merchandise vendors, and festival contests, giving attendees plenty of opportunities to shop, snack, and show off their best retro outfits. The Alcohauler will be on site serving beer, wine, and cocktails, and attendees are also welcome to bring their own beverages.

“Hippie Fest is all about celebrating the joy and creativity of the era,” said Milford Museum representatives. “It’s a chance for people to come together, enjoy great music, and support the museum, all while letting their inner flower child shine.”

Festival Guidelines and What to Bring
Guests are encouraged to arrive in full hippie style, with tie-dye shirts, headbands, fringe, and bell-bottom jeans. Seating is lawn-style, so blankets and portable chairs are recommended. Attendees must be 21 or older and present a valid photo ID at the gate. Pets and outside food are not permitted.

Tickets and Proceeds
Advance tickets are $45 and available online via Cheddar Up and Eventbrite, or in person at the Milford Museum (open Tuesday–Friday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.). Tickets at the gate will be $50. All proceeds go directly toward supporting the Milford Museum’s exhibits, educational programs, and local history preservation.

A Setting Steeped in History
Causey Mansion, the festival’s backdrop, is itself a historic Milford landmark, offering a picturesque setting for live music and community gatherings. With its mature trees, open lawn, and period charm, the property provides the perfect stage for an event dedicated to nostalgia and cultural heritage.

How to Get Involved
Organizers are still welcoming volunteers to help with setup, ticketing, and hospitality. For more information or to offer support, call 302-424-1080 or email Tom@milfordDEmuseum.org.

Photo Credit: a photo of the Milford’s first Hippie Festival originally published in Milford LIVE.

An Editor’s Fact Box: It’s A Groovy Tradition in Milford

A Fundraiser with Flower Power
Hippie Fest began as a lighthearted way for the Milford Museum to raise funds while engaging the community in a unique, colorful celebration of the 1960s and ’70s. Over the years, it has grown into one of the museum’s most anticipated annual events, drawing attendees from across Delaware and beyond.

Why It Matters
Proceeds from ticket sales go directly toward the Milford Museum’s mission to preserve and share local history. Funds support new exhibits, school programs, historical archives, and preservation of artifacts that tell Milford’s story.

Past Highlights

Lively costume contests that see guests competing in categories like “Best Tie-Dye” and “Most Authentic Hippie Look”
Packed dance areas during The Funsters’ sets, with festivalgoers of all ages showing off their retro moves
Local vendors offering handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and artisan crafts reminiscent of the era

A Perfect Fit for Causey Mansion
The historic mansion’s sprawling lawn, framed by mature trees, sets the stage for a relaxed, festival-like atmosphere. The combination of live music, outdoor seating, and a BYOB-friendly policy makes it a summertime favorite.

Looking Ahead
Organizers say the festival’s enduring popularity lies in its blend of nostalgia, community spirit, and support for a good cause. With each year’s proceeds, the Milford Museum strengthens its role as a steward of local heritage while giving residents a chance to celebrate together in true flower-power style.