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Welcome to our Annual Calendar. This page is designed to help you plan ahead throughout the year. 2026 Calendar Welcome to our Annual Calendar. Plan your activities for the year ahead.

Join us in preserving the beauty and excitement of Cape Henlopen State Park! As a member, you'll help maintain this treasured space for future generations to enjoy. Memberships are tax deductible. Membership Join Us Join us in preserving the beauty and excitement of Cape Henlopen State Park! As a member, you'll help maintain this treasured space for future generations to enjoy. Memberships are tax deductible. The annual membership period is January 1 through December 31st. We do not share your personal information. Complete the Form Below to Join or Renew First Name Last Name Street Address Street Address Line 2 City Region/State/Province Zip code Email Phone Number Family Member First Name Family Member Last Name Family Member Email What are your interests? Interest Bike Barn Indoor Events Participate on a Committee Trails Days Gardens New Member or Renewal * New Member Membership Renewal * To donate an additional amount, select a higher level of membership. Select an item ($) * Individual - $20 Family - $30 Sustaining - $50 Sponsor - $100 Benefactor - $250 Patron - $500 Lifetime - $1000 Go to Checkout Thank You Electronic payments are preferred, but if you wish to pay by check, complete a paper form .

year at a glance calendar 2026 Calendar of Events Wednesday, April 22 - Earth Day Annual Community Cleanup Saturday, June 6 - National Trails Day September 1 - 30 - Bird Seed Sale Saturday, September 12 - Youth Fishing Tournament Saturday, September 19 - Delaware Coastal Cleanup Saturday, September 19 - Chocolate Tasting Saturday, October 17 - Bird Seed Pickup Saturday, November 14 - Holiday Boutique and Book Fair Tuesday, December 1 - Giving Tuesday FOCHSP Trails Days Free Borrow-a-Bike Program Monthly Board Meetings Prior Events Saturday, April 18 - Wine, Cheese & Beer Tasting Saturday, March 21 - Flea Market Saturday, February 21, Annual Meeting Questions? Call us at 302-858-6127

Stay connected with Friends in the News—featuring notable updates, media mentions, achievements, and newsworthy highlights from our group. Friends In the News From memorable events to inspiring speakers, this page highlights what we’ve been up to—along with insights and resources we’re glad to share. Annual Meeting The Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park held their Annual Meeting on February 21 at the Biden Environmental Center. Members gathered for a productive session that included the election of the 2026 Board of Directors. Votes were cast to renew current board members Jeff Underwood (President), MJ Candaux (Merchandise), and Suzanne Langwell (Marketing and Media), and to confirm continued service of Tim McDermott and Susan Giordano following their mid-year appointments. Members also considered new nominees Tony Buffkin (Webmaster) and Becky Brasington Clark (Grants Committee). The meeting offered a valuable opportunity for members to engage in leadership decisions and reaffirm their commitment to the park. Winter Birds of Southern Delaware At our annual meeting, guest speaker Ian Stewart shared tips for supporting winter birds and highlighted his favorite birding spots in lower Delaware. To help birds in winter, provide food like black oil sunflower seeds, suet cakes, shel peanuts, and mealworms. Planting native wildflowers, such Purple Coneflower and Brown-eyed Susan, can also support local wildlife while offering seeds. Water is crucial; a bird bath with a heater can keep water accessible. For birdwatching, Cape Henlopen State Park and Indian River Inlet are standout locations for various species, including Snow Buntings and Great Cormorants.

We collaborate with the park staff to organize clean-up initiatives, wildlife conservation projects, and educational programs. We also raise funds to support park improvements and infrastructure development. About Us The Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park supports the park through volunteer projects and fundraising events. We have a wide variety of programs, many of which are unique to the park's geographical location and the environmental diversity of the Cape Henlopen area. Board Meetings: Second Thursday of the month at 2:00 p.m. All members are invited. Board of Directors Jeff Underwood, President Tony Buffkin, Vice President Bob Callahan, Treasurer Miguel Garces, Secretary MJ Candaux Becky Brasington Clark Susan Giordano Suzanne Langwell Timothy McDermott Barry Snyder What We Do We collaborate with the park staff to organize recreational activities, wildlife conservation projects, clean-up initiatives, and support educational programs. Through our fundraising efforts, we fund park improvements and infrastructure development, ensuring a pristine and welcoming environment for all visitors to enjoy. Together, we can make a difference!

Donated bikes are for sale during operating hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. weather permitting. Call (302) 858-6127, or by email: fochsp@gmail.com to make arrangements to view bikes in person. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Bikes for Sale Explore our selection of donated bikes on display at the Bike Barn during our open hours. Feel free to make an appointment by emailing BikeBarn@FriendsOfCapeHenlopen.org . We gladly accept both cash and card payments. We look forward to helping you find the perfect bike! Kids' Bikes Adult Bikes Model: Schwinn Road Bike Specs: 10 Speed 26" Condition: Fair Price: $75 Number: 604 Model: Giant Rove Specs: 21 Speed 26" Condition: Good Price: $95 Number: 623 Model: Trek 4300 Specs: 21 Speed 26" Condition: Good Price: $75 Number: 624 Model: Bianchi Premio Specs: 21 Speed 27" Condition: Excellent Price: $100 Number: 625 Model: Huffy Cranbrook Specs: Single Speed 26" Condition: Good Price: $55 Number: 631 Model: Raleigh Specs: 10 Speed 27" Condition: Good Price: $65 Number: 633 Model: Raleigh Grand Prix Specs: 10 Speed 27" Condition: Moderate Price: $65 Number: 634 Model: Soma Generation Road Bike Specs: 10 Speed 26" Condition: Great Price: $75 Number: 635 Kids' Bikes Kids Model: Schwinn Specs: 1 speed 16" Condition: Fair Price: $30 Number: 536 Model: Murray Hot Shot Specs: 20" Condition: Good Price: $45 Number: 621 Model: Huffy Seastar Pink Specs: 20" Condition: Good Price: $40 Number: 628

The Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park supports the park through volunteer projects and fundraising events. We have a wide variety of programs, many of which are unique to the park's geographical location and the environmental diversity of the Cape Henlopen area. Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park Supporting and Advocating for Our Unique Public Park GET INVOLVED The Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park (FOCHSP) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) volunteer organization that works with the Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation and the staff to support and advocate for one of the country's unique public parks. Join Us: Become a Member Become a Member Anchor 1 FRIENDS ACTIVITIES Educational Grants Bike Barn Events Trail Maintenance and Beach Cleanup TEDI Grant Gardening Explore Opportunities VOLUNTEER TESTIMONIALS What Our Dedicated Volunteers Are Saying “I've had an amazing experience volunteering with FOCHSP. It's incredibly rewarding to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of such a beautiful park.” VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCES

Discover our exciting events happening throughout the year! There's always something going on, so come join the fun and make unforgettable memories with us! Events Discover our exciting events happening throughout the year! There's always something going on, so come join the fun and make unforgettable memories with us! Trails Day Trails Day FOCHSP is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and ecological balance of Cape Henlopen State Park. We usually meet on the second Saturday of every month at 8:45 a.m. to maintain trails and collect trash. Locations may include a trail or the beach. Check below or the monthly newsletter for the meet-up location. In addition to our upcoming Trails Day, Earth Day is scheduled for Wednesday April 22, 2026 and marks its 56th anniversary. This year's theme is Our Power, Our Planet. As in years past, the Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park will be participating by doing a cleanup on Lewes Beach and East Lewes. We will meet at the Johnnie Walker Beach parking lot at 8:45 am. Bring a bag or bucket and a picker/grabber if you have one. We will have some available to borrow. Please dress appropriately with closed toed shoes, gloves and a hat. The next FOCHSP Trails Day is scheduled for Saturday May 9th. We will meet at the Gordon's Pond Parking Lot at 8:45am. We will be working on the parking lot area, beach and trail entrance and we will be focusing on clearing debris, pruning, and trash pickup. Please dress appropriately with closed toed shoes, gloves and a hat. Annual Meeting Annual Meeting Biden Environmental Center Februrary 21, 2026, 10 a.m. Coffee and Donuts 10:30 a.m. Meeting Presentations Featured Presentation Winter Birds of Southern Delaware Ian Stewart Staff Ornithologist, Delaware Nature Society Delaware’s unique location, positioned between the Delaware River/Bay and the Chesapeake Bay, places it at a strategic crossroads for birdlife and makes it an excellent destination for birdwatching. Throughout the year, the state offers outstanding opportunities to observe an impressive diversity of species, from migrating shorebirds and waterfowl to resident woodland and grassland birds. Birds of Winter Stewart will introduce attendees to the winter bird species found throughout Delaware and share the best locations for observing them. Tips for Backyard Bird Enthusiasts The presentation will include practical advice on attracting more birds to your yard, both during the winter season and throughout the rest of the year. Image credits: Snow Geese at Prime Hook, lwolfartist, CC BY 2.0, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons; Ian Stewart photo, courtesy of Delaware Nature Society. Flea Market Indoor Flea Market Cape Henlopen State Park Officers Club March 21, 2026 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find a bargain! Find the unexpected! Shop a wide-ranging selection of items donated by members and non-members. 10% discount for Friends Members on Friends logo merchandise Credit cards accepted, $10 minimum Bike Raffle Donations accepted March 20, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Officers Club. Items Not Accepted for Donation: CRT or Plasma TVs Clothing items, including shoes Text books, encyclopedias, dictionaries, and magazines (unless historical) Large furniture Personal healthcare items Artificial Christmas trees Wine and Cheese Wine, Cheese & Beer Tasting Cape Henlopen State Park Officers Club April 18, 2026 4 to 6 p.m. Sample a wide selection of craft beers, wines, and cheeses. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres selected to pair with the wines and beers. Free complimentary wine glass. Ticket price: $35.00 in advance or $35.00 at the door. Advance tickets include admission to the park. Advance tickets may be purchased at the Park Office (cash only) or at R&L Liquors. Co-sponsored by R&L Liquors of Lewes, DE. YouthFishing Youth Fishing Tournament Cape Henlopen State Park Fishing Pier September 12, 2026 8 to 11 a.m. Ages 15 & Under $10 Entrance Fee Free T-Shirts for first 70 contestants. Prizes will be awarded! Chocolate Tasting Chocolate Tasting Cape Henlopen State Park Officers Club September 19, 2026 1 to 4 p.m. or 'til chocolate is gone! Satisfy your chocolate craving with homemade confections and baked items. 100% of the proceeds from this event go toward our Thatcher Education Fund , which provides financial assistance for students attending Nature Center programs at the park. Plus, Bake Sale and Friends Merchandise Holiday Boutique Holiday Boutique & Book Sale Cape Henlopen State Park Officers Club November 14, 2026 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Discover unique, handcrafted items or gently used Christmas decorations perfect for holiday gifts or decorating your home. Grab a book for cozy winter reading. Show your support for the Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park with a purchase of exclusive logo gear. Donations of clean books and crafts are welcome. Dropoff November 14, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Borrow a bike and ride for free! Check in at the Nature Center, provide your photo ID, and head over to Bike Barn where our team will help you find the perfect-sized bike for your adventure.  Borrow a Bike And ride for free! The Bike Barn’s current schedule is Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am to 3 pm, weather permitting. We encourage you to confirm the operating status of the Barn by calling the Friends’ phone (302-858-6127) or by contacting the Park’s Nature Center (302-645-6852). For special requests and for groups greater than 10, please contact us at least a week in advance to discuss your requirements by emailing BikeBarn@FriendsOfCapeHenlopen.org How to Borrow a Bike Check in at the Nature Center, provide your photo ID, and head over to Bike Barn where our team will help you find the perfect-sized bike for your adventure. Our Bike Fleet 45 adult bikes with baskets and bells 14 kids’ bikes 2 adult trikes 3 bike trailers Adult and children’s helmets are also available for loan All bikes have coaster brakes and no gear shift. Borrowing Guidelines Bikes may be borrowed for up to 2 hours Loans are first come first served Riders must remain within the park and on trails at all times All bikes must be returned by 2:45 p.m. At least one adult must accompany children All riders under 18 must wear helmets Children under 12 months of age are not allowed on bikes with infant seats or in trailers Groups of 10 or more riders please contact us at least a week in advance to discuss your requirements by emailing BikeBarn@FriendsOfCapeHenlopen.org

The Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park (FOCHSP) funds two grant opportunities.  The Thatcher Education Grant and the Youth Educational Support (YES) Grant are designed to inspire youth groups to engage in programs focused on learning about nature and the environment. Educational Grants The Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park (FOCHSP) funds two grant opportunities. The Thatcher Education Grant and the Youth Educational Support (YES) Grant are designed to inspire youth groups to engage in programs focused on learning about nature and the environment. Below, you will find information about each program and application processes. Join us in fostering a love for nature in the next generation! Thatcher Grant Thatcher Grants may be applied to: School Transportation costs to the park. Nature Center/Park program fees for Title 1 Delaware schools. Thatcher Grant Process: First contact Richard Julian, Park Nature Center Manager, at (302) 645-6852, or Richard.Julian@Delaware.gov . Complete the fillable application form here: Application Form Submit the signed application to the Park's Nature Center Manager. The Nature Center Manager will review the application to determine if the Park has the resources to ensure a successful class trip on the proposed date. After scheduling, applications are forwarded to the FOCHSP Board. The FOCHSP Board considers the application and will reply to the teacher/group leader. Youth Educational Support (YES) Grant YES Grants may be applied to: Transportation costs to the park. Nature Center/Park program fees. YES Grant Process: First contact Richard Julian, Park Nature Center Manager, at (302) 645-6852, or Richard.Julian@Delaware.gov . Complete the application form here: Application Form Submit the signed application to the Park's Nature Center Manager. The Nature Center Manager will review the application to determine if the Park has the resources to ensure a successful trip on the proposed date. Approved applications are forwarded to the FOCHSP Board. The FOCHSP Board considers the application and will reply to the teacher/group leader. Unlike Thatcher Grants, YES Grants: Are open to Delaware-based non-profit youth organizations. Are awarded preferentially to groups that have a sponsor/leader who is a current FOCHSP member. Each youth group may be awarded only one grant per calendar year. Participant's program may include environmental education or other topics.