Last November, a guest checked in on a Thursday and asked what was happening that weekend. We directed them to our website’s events guide – film screenings, craft fairs, a bonfire night. By Sunday, they’d hit five of them and were already planning their return trip for this year.
November transforms Rehoboth Beach. The summer crowds thin out, locals reclaim the boardwalk, and the event calendar fills with craft fairs, indie films, and the first hints of holiday magic. And here’s the best part – most of these events welcome your dog, making it easy to explore without leaving anyone at the inn.
Early November – Film, Comedy, and Fall Shopping
Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival (Nov 3-9)
Seven days of independent cinema across multiple venues, hosted by the Rehoboth Beach Film Society. Perfect for a rainy afternoon or an evening escape after a beach walk. The festival draws film lovers from up and down the coast, so book your passes early at rehobothfilm.com.
“Don’t Tell Comedy” Shows
Secret location comedy nights scheduled for Nov 8, 15, 22, and 29. You get the venue address a few hours before showtime – it’s part of the fun. Check donttellcomedy.com/cities/sussexcounty-de for tickets.
Holiday Shopping Kickoff at Tanger Outlets (Nov 1)
Beat the December rush and start your gift list early. The outlets sit about 10 minutes from the inn by car, making it an easy morning or afternoon trip. More at tanger.com/rehoboth.
Happy Hour Adoption Event at Crooked Hammock Brewery (Nov 5)
Support local animal welfare while enjoying craft beer and live music. Dogs are welcome (naturally), and the vibe is relaxed and community-focused. Details at dogsdigthebeach.com.
Mid-November – Craft Fairs, Bonfires, and Art
Historic Lewes 1st Friday Community Night (Nov 7)
Downtown Lewes comes alive with local vendors, live music, and open galleries. It’s a 15-minute drive and worth the trip if you want a quieter, more historic feel than Rehoboth’s bustle. Check historiclewes.org for details.
Fall Craft Fair at St. Ann’s (Nov 7-8, Bethany Beach)
Handmade jewelry, pottery, holiday decor, and local art. Park once and browse dozens of vendors. Find more at stannbb.org.
Southeastern Delaware Artists Studio Tour (Nov 8-9)
Visit working artist studios across the region, meet the creators, and pick up original pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Map and schedule at artstudiotour.com.
Marauders & Marshmallows Bonfire at Indian River (Nov 7)
Bring blankets, s’mores supplies, and your sense of adventure for an evening bonfire at the state park. Dogs on leash are welcome. More at destateparks.com.
Fires of Revolution Bonfire Night (Nov 14)
A historic-themed bonfire evening in Lewes with storytelling, colonial history, and coastal camaraderie. Details at historiclewes.org.
Late November – Holidays Begin, Turkey Trots, and Theatre
Enchanted Winter at Schellville (Nov 15-16, 20-23, 25-26, 30)
Multiple evenings of lights, holiday displays, and festive atmosphere. It’s a nice mid-stay activity if you’re spending Thanksgiving week at the beach. Schedule at schellbrothers.com/schellville.
Christmas at the Beach Craft Fair (Nov 22, Cambria Hotel)
More handmade goods, this time with a holiday twist. Perfect for finishing your gift list. Event info at allevents.in/rehoboth-beach.
Jingle Mingle (Nov 22-23, Rehoboth Beach Convention Center)
Evening social event marking the official start of the holiday season. Mix of vendors, drinks, and festive cheer. Details at allevents.in/rehoboth-beach.
Bethany-Fenwick Turkey Trot (Nov 27)
Burn calories before the Thanksgiving feast with a morning run or walk. Family-friendly, dog-friendly, and community-focused. Register at bethanyturkeytrot.com.
Thanksgiving Feast at Crooked Hammock (Nov 27)
If you’d rather let someone else handle the cooking, Crooked Hammock hosts a full Thanksgiving spread. Reservations recommended at crookedhammockbrewery.com.
A Christmas Carol at Clear Space Theatre (starts Nov 28)
Live theatre, holiday tradition, and a great rainy-evening option. Showtimes and tickets at clearspacetheatre.org.
Dewey Beach Tree Lighting (Nov 30, Fifer’s Seafood)
Cap the month with the official tree lighting in Dewey. Short drive, festive vibe, and usually followed by specials at nearby restaurants. More at delawarebeaches.guide.
Planning Your November Stay
November weekends book faster than you’d think – especially around film festival dates and Thanksgiving week. We typically see guests combining a Friday arrival with Saturday events and a lazy Sunday morning before checkout.
A few things that help:
- Book festival passes early – The indie film festival sells out popular screenings quickly.
- Layer your plans – Mix active events (Turkey Trots, beach walks) with indoor options (theatre, craft fairs) in case weather shifts.
- Check dog policies – Most outdoor events welcome leashed dogs, but always verify before heading out.
- Plan for parking – November parking is easier than summer, but events like craft fairs can fill nearby lots. We’ll point you to easy options.
The Canalside Inn sits within walking distance of downtown Rehoboth Beach, making it simple to attend evening events without moving your car twice. And yes – your dog is always welcome here, whether you’re heading to a bonfire or just settling in for a quiet weekend by the fire.
