If there’s one thing Delray Beach knows how to do, it’s celebrate. Year after year, this vibrant coastal city draws locals and visitors together for events that highlight its art, culture, food, and community spirit. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or you’ve called it home for years, the annual calendar is packed with experiences that make this place so special.

Here’s a guide to some of the most beloved festivals in Delray Beach, the ones worth marking on your calendar well in advance.

For more than 60 years, the Delray Affair has transformed Atlantic Avenue into a buzzing, mile-long marketplace. Known as the “Greatest Show Under the Sun,” this sprawling arts and crafts festival draws hundreds of exhibitors from across the country. You’ll find everything from fine art and handmade jewelry to unique home décor and specialty foods.

The event’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by live music, food vendors, and interactive activities. It’s not just a shopping trip; it’s a celebration of creativity, local talent, and Delray’s role as a hub for the arts.

Every February, the Delray Beach Stadium & Tennis Center hosts the Delray Beach Open, drawing tennis fans from around the world. This ATP Tour event brings together top-ranked players and legendary pros in a dynamic mix of high-stakes matches and crowd-pleasing exhibitions.

The atmosphere is both relaxed and charged with energy, giving spectators the rare chance to get close to the action, interact with players, and enjoy food and drinks from local vendors. It’s a signature event for sports lovers and a source of pride for the Delray Beach community.

Each spring, Savor the Avenue transforms Atlantic Ave into the setting for the nation’s longest dining table. Stretching for five blocks through the heart of downtown, this beautifully set table seats hundreds of guests for a multi-course feast under the stars. Some of Delray Beach’s top restaurants present specially crafted menus paired with fine wines or cocktails, giving diners a chance to experience the city’s culinary excellence in one remarkable evening.

The event blends fine dining with community connection, as neighbors and visitors share a meal in a truly one-of-a-kind setting. Proceeds often benefit local charities, making this celebrated tradition as meaningful as it is unforgettable.

Art & Jazz on the Avenue is one of Delray Beach’s signature cultural events, turning downtown into a lively showcase of music, art, and community spirit. Local and regional artists line the sidewalks with outdoor galleries, offering everything from paintings and sculptures to handcrafted jewelry. Live jazz performances fill the air, creating a soundtrack that drifts through the entire avenue.

Visitors can chat with artists about their work, purchase one-of-a-kind pieces, and enjoy the intimate, small-town feel that makes Delray so inviting. It’s an evening where the city’s creative energy takes center stage, transforming a regular night downtown into a full-scale cultural celebration.

Nicknamed “The Best Stinkin’ Party in Town,” Garlic Fest has grown from a small local fundraiser into one of South Florida’s most beloved culinary events. Everything revolves around garlic, from gourmet dishes crafted by top chefs to fun competitions like garlic-eating contests.

Visitors can explore artisan market stalls, attend live cooking demonstrations, and experience performances by nationally recognized musical acts on the main stage. While the playful theme adds a sense of fun, the culinary offerings are crafted with remarkable skill and creativity. For food lovers, this is one festival that’s too good to miss.

Each year, the holiday season in Delray Beach begins with the lighting of the city’s iconic 100-foot Christmas tree in Old School Square, a towering, fully decorated landmark that glows with thousands of lights. Beyond its visual impact, the tree serves as the heart of a month-long celebration that draws residents and visitors alike.

Families can enjoy ice skating under the stars, take carousel rides, browse festive holiday markets, and attend themed events leading up to Christmas. The lighting ceremony itself is a highlight, complete with live music, seasonal treats, and a special appearance by Santa. It’s a tradition that transforms downtown into a winter wonderland, blending holiday magic with the charm of a coastal Florida setting.

These aren’t just events on a calendar; they’re part of what shapes life in Delray Beach. They encourage residents to gather, support local businesses, and take pride in their city. For potential homebuyers, the abundance of festivals underscores the active, community-focused lifestyle available here. Whether you prefer art walks, food festivals, or live music by the beach, Delray offers something that will make you feel connected and at home.

If you’re thinking about making a move, it’s worth exploring how the city’s events fit into the bigger picture of your lifestyle. Candace Friis has deep knowledge of both the market and the community as a top Delray Beach real estate agent, helping buyers find homes that offer the perfect balance of location, amenities, and neighborhood culture. From beachfront condos to historic homes near downtown, Candace is ready to guide you toward a Delray Beach property that keeps you close to the local festivals you’ll want to enjoy year after year. Reach out today to get started!