Riverwalk Freedom Festival to Celebrate 25 Years

MILFORD – The 25th Riverwalk Freedom Festival returns Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 9 am to 9 pm, with a spectacular fireworks display at dark to close out the evening. Hosted by the Greater Milford Chamber of Commerce, the celebration will take place along the scenic Mispillion Riverwalk, Bicentennial Park, and throughout Downtown Milford. 

As the largest outdoor festival in Milford, the Riverwalk Freedom Festival is especially unique to Delmarva. It stands out as the only local event offering fireworks and four live bands at no cost. While many events in the region feature just one or two attractions, the Riverwalk Freedom Festival goes above and beyond, giving attendees a full day of entertainment, activities, food, and community spirit.

Here’s What You’ll Find at the Festival 

Whether you’re coming with friends, family, or flying solo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Riverwalk Freedom Festival:

• Four live bands performing throughout the day, offering an exciting and diverse musical lineup
• A spectacular fireworks display at dark
• Over 100 vendors including food trucks, local artisans, and small businesses 
• A dedicated Kids Corner, filled with games, crafts, and fun activities for the younger crowd 
• A special Pets Park, perfect for bringing your furry friends along to enjoy the festivities  
• The Red, White & Brew Garden, serving up local brews 
• Southern Delaware Street Rods Car Show, featuring dozens of classic and custom cars  
• Special activities at the Milford Senior Center and Milford Public Library
• Complimentary paddleboat rides on the Mispillion River, offering a relaxing break with a beautiful view 
• The beloved Duck Dash, with a $500 grand prize for the first-place duck

In addition to all the scheduled entertainment, many downtown Milford businesses and organizations will keep their doors open, welcoming festivalgoers with special deals and events. These businesses play a crucial role in creating a festive atmosphere that stretches beyond the official festival zones. 

And the Riverwalk Freedom Festival isn’t just a favorite among attendees — it’s a highlight for vendors as well, with many raving about the event’s atmosphere and turnout. Jo Schmeiser, Executive Director of the Greater Milford Chamber of Commerce, says, “Vendors say this is the best event they attend each year. That’s probably why so many come back,” she explains.

A Beloved Tradition with Deep Roots 

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Riverwalk Freedom Festival is the community effort that powers it. The event has built a strong legacy over the years, thanks to the dedication of its many volunteers and organizers.

This year marks Angela Dorey’s 14th year as Festival Chairperson, and she continues to lead the charge with enthusiasm. “I’m very fortunate to have so many awesome volunteers that have been with me since day one, as well as new amazing volunteers,” Dorey shares. “It makes my job as chairperson run like a well-oiled machine and I think of them as family.”

Some festival volunteer stories even stretch back generations. Former event chairperson Ruth Abbott first brought her granddaughter Lizzie to help when she was just six years old. Now a sophomore at Milford High School, Lizzie continues to volunteer each year, reflecting the festival’s long-standing tradition of community involvement and hometown pride.

Get It on the Action

Interested in being a part of this exciting milestone event? Whether you’re a local business, artisan, nonprofit, or just looking to support your community, there are still opportunities to become a vendor, sponsor, or volunteer. Visit milfordchamber.com/our-events/riverwalk-freedom-festival for more information.

And don’t forget to enter the Duck Dash! For just $5, you could walk away with $500. Ducks can be purchased online at milfordchamber.com/duck-dash.

Stay up to date with all festival news, band announcements, and vendor highlights by following @RiverwalkFreedomFestival on Facebook.

Sara Uzer

Sara Uzer is a journalist from Sussex County with more than 15 years of experience as a writer, editor, and community advocate.  She started her career in Washington, DC and has lived in Sussex County for the past five years.