The traditions

Activities

Everything that happens when Delaware returns to Georgetown.

A day on The Circle

Return Day fills downtown Georgetown for an afternoon: the parade, the reading of the returns, the burying of the hatchet, food and vendors around The Circle, and the traditions that have grown up alongside the ceremony over the years.

II

Ceremonies on the Circle

The Town Crier reads the returns, the hatchet is buried in sand from Lewes — and for 2026, featured singer Alexis Griess performs.

III

The Ox Roast

A Return Day custom since the 1800s — sandwiches free to attendees.

Also part of the day

The Lana Parker Youth Entertainment Stage runs Return Day morning, 10:00–11:30 a.m. — young performers can enter by October 31. Recent Return Days have also featured a cornhole tournament and a reception; 2026 details will be announced with the full program.

2026 schedule — coming soon

The official 2026 Program of Events, including times for the parade, ceremonies and entertainment, will be published here when the committee releases it. See the Program of Events page.

Plan your visit

Thursday, November 5, 2026 · The Circle, Georgetown, Delaware · free to attend.

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