A New Spring Arts Festival Is Coming to the Brandywine Valley
A new tradition is about to take shape in Delaware this spring as longtime arts advocate Barry Schlecker prepares to debut the Brandywine Spring Festival of the Arts, a two-day outdoor celebration designed to bring artists, families, and community together in a fresh and inviting setting.
The festival will take place May 16 and 17 at the Siegel JCC, located at 101 Garden of Eden Road in Wilmington. It is being produced by Barry’s Events, the organization behind the popular Brandywine Festival of the Arts each fall and the Brandywine Holiday Festival of the Arts in the winter, and is drawing on years of experience to create something special for the spring season.
“We’ve built a strong community of artists over time and are always looking for meaningful ways to create more opportunities for them,” said Schlecker. “I’ve wanted to introduce a spring festival for some time, and this location offered the right setting to bring that vision to life.”
The event is expected to feature between 100 and 150 juried artists and artisans, along with local food vendors and live entertainment. With a focus on handmade, original work, the festival also aims to welcome emerging artists who may be new to the festival circuit.
“This is a great entry point for artists who might feel intimidated by larger shows, and we are actively searching for new talent.” Schlecker said. “We have a very reasonable entry fee, are committed to being accessible and answering questions, and have plans to introduce a mentoring component where experienced artists can help guide those just getting started.”
Beyond the art, the festival is designed as a full day experience for families. Admission is set at $5 per person, with free parking and a pet-friendly atmosphere that includes a dog adoption component in partnership with Angel’s Retreat. Local food trucks and vendors will round out the experience, creating an environment that encourages visitors to spend the day exploring.
“Our festivals have naturally become all-day family experiences,” Schlecker said. “It is about creating a space where people can spend time together, enjoy great art, and feel part of something welcoming and affordable.”
That sense of connection extends behind the scenes as well. Schlecker, who turns 86 this month, continues to lead the events alongside his family, describing the work not as a job but as something deeply personal.
“It has truly become a family business,” he said. “Working together, supporting artists, and creating something meaningful for the community is what keeps me going. Retirement is not on the horizon. There is every possibility for all of our events, including this new one, to continue to grow.”
Further reinforcing its community-driven approach, the festival is also opening its doors to nonprofit organizations, offering space for community groups to share their missions with attendees.
Artists, vendors, and nonprofits interested in participating can apply online at www.brandywinespringfestival.com or contact Barry Schlecker directly at barry@barrysevents.com or 302-690-5555.
About Jamie Kleman
Jamie Kleman is a children’s author, playwright, TEDx speaker, and the Executive Producer of It’s Not Mean to be Green, an award-winning book and musical that toured for two years and launched a national Make a Monster Difference movement. She is the creator of the It’s Not Mean to be Green Camp and Licensing Program, a turnkey theatre and sustainability curriculum adopted by schools, libraries, museums, homeschool networks, and youth organizations.
