Southern Delaware Tourism Awards 2025: Honouring Excellence in Events, Attractions, and Community Impact

Published on December 12, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

The Southern Delaware Tourism Awards 2025 recognised the region’s finest, highlighting the incredible contributions to tourism. This year, the awards ceremony was held on December 10 at The Lighthouse Cove Event Center in Dewey Beach, celebrating the success and growth of the tourism industry in Sussex County. Tourism is the backbone of Sussex County’s economy, contributing over $3 billion annually and providing thousands of local jobs. The event honours the exceptional efforts of businesses, events, and individuals who shape the region into a top tourist destination. Let’s delve into the winners and their impact on the area’s flourishing tourism scene.

Best Attraction: Cape Water Tours & Taxi – A Unique Experience

Cape Water Tours & Taxi has earned the title of Best Attraction at the 2025 Southern Delaware Tourism Awards for its exceptional tours that showcase the natural beauty and maritime heritage of Southern Delaware. Offering a variety of experiences from eco-tours to scenic cruises, CWT draws thousands of visitors annually. These tours provide not only breathtaking views of the region’s coastline but also contribute to the local economy, with many guests extending their stay in local hotels and dining at local restaurants. CWT’s commitment to community collaboration, environmental stewardship, and engaging visitor experiences makes it a standout in Sussex County’s tourism landscape. By offering more than 20 different tours, CWT continues to be a major player in the area’s tourism industry.

Best Event: Wings & Wheels – A Signature Festival

Wings & Wheels, a family-friendly festival held at Georgetown’s historic WWII-era airport, secured the title of Best Event. This popular festival combines aviation history, military tributes, and classic cars with live entertainment, attracting thousands from across the Mid-Atlantic. The event’s economic impact is substantial, driving nearly $1.1 million in local tourism revenue. Wings & Wheels is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community and heritage, drawing crowds who enjoy aviation displays, military history, and a fun, family atmosphere. The festival has become a hallmark event for Georgetown, cementing its status as a top destination in Southern Delaware.

Best New Event: Ben Voyage – A Star-Studded Success

Ben Voyage: Yacht to the Future – The Retro White Party by Beachin Bash is a groundbreaking new event that has made waves in Sussex County’s tourism scene. Held in Dewey Beach, the event attracted approximately 400 guests, including attendees from multiple states. The event, hosted by celebrity Chef Ben Robinson from Bravo’s Below Deck, offered an unforgettable culinary and entertainment experience, featuring A-list talent and engaging local collaborations. It also raised funds for the Skeeter Strong Foundation. This event not only boosted local tourism by bringing in out-of-town visitors but also elevated Sussex County’s profile as a destination capable of hosting world-class events. Its success sets the stage for future annual editions.

Philanthropic Award: Bayard, Lingo, and Townsend Families – Pillars of the Community

The Philanthropic Award went to the Bayard, Lingo, and Townsend families, whose unwavering generosity has left a profound impact on Southern Delaware. From supporting major events to preserving local history, these families have been key contributors to the region’s tourism and community life. Their most notable contribution is the Junction and Breakwater Trail, a popular coastal trail system linking Rehoboth Beach and Lewes. Their donations have helped strengthen the area’s tourism infrastructure and made it a more accessible and appealing destination for visitors. The families’ legacy of giving continues to inspire others to invest in the future of Sussex County.

Tourism Legacy Award: Carol Everhart – A Career in Service

Carol Everhart, the retiring President/CEO of the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce, received the Tourism Legacy Award for her decades of dedicated service to the region. Since joining the Chamber in 1989, Carol has played an integral role in marketing and promoting Sussex County as a top tourist destination. Her efforts in organising major events like the Sea Witch Festival and her leadership in growing the Chamber’s influence have helped shape the area’s tourism landscape. Carol’s legacy will live on through the successful programmes she helped establish, ensuring that Sussex County remains a beloved destination for generations to come.

The Southern Delaware Tourism Awards 2025 highlighted the incredible achievements of local businesses, events, and individuals who have contributed to the region’s thriving tourism industry. From the remarkable tours of Cape Water Tours & Taxi to the star-studded success of Ben Voyage, the award winners have set a high standard for excellence. With such strong community involvement and dedication, Sussex County is poised to continue its upward trajectory as a must-visit destination in the Mid-Atlantic. As tourism in Sussex County continues to grow, these award-winning efforts serve as an inspiring model for others in the industry.