By Benjamin Rothstein

DOVER — Thursday marked the 248th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and Delawareans flocked to the state’s capital to celebrate.

At the start of the annual “Dover 4th of July,” Mayor Robin R. Christiansen appeared before a packed Legislative Mall to deliver an address, in which he thanked the program’s many presenters, including the prime sponsor, the Daily State News.

“This event would not be possible if it wasn’t for the generous support of our sponsors, and it is important that we recognize them,” he said. “These are businesses, organizations and individuals who are helping to light up the skies over Dover, celebrating 248 years of freedom and independence for all of our citizens.”

The mayor then took a moment to recognize a C-17 flyover by a Dover Air Force Base crew.

Earlier on Independence Day was the annual peach pie-eating contest and a reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Old State House. The Biggs Museum of American Art featured free admission Thursday, as well.

Later, the yearly Fourth of July parade, organized by American Legion Walter L. Fox Post 2, stepped off, along Hazel, State and Water streets. Several organizations took part, as well as various groups representing candidates in the 2024 election.

At the same time, vendors packed South Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, where there was also a plethora of games to choose from.

Before fireworks capped off the Fourth, the crowd once again heard from Mayor Christiansen, who hinted at what is in store in 2026 for the country’s semiquincentennial.

“We are planning a great event for the 250th anniversary of our (nation),” he said. “So, please have a lot of fun, be safe and get ready for some of the most fabulous fireworks that you will see this year.”