Running of the Bull: Dewey Beach

There are beach towns, and then there is Dewey Beach — a place that seems to run on sunshine, music, and an almost suspicious amount of energy. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you mix a legendary bar, hundreds of day-drinkers, and a playful nod to Spanish tradition, let me introduce you to one of Dewey’s most iconic spectacles: the Running of the Bull at The Starboard.

First, the atmosphere. Imagine the kind of day where the air is already warm before noon, the streets are buzzing, and everyone looks like they’re headed to the same unforgettable party. Red becomes the unofficial dress code. Bandanas, bright tops, themed outfits — the crowd fully commits, which is half the fun. There’s something about Dewey Beach that makes even the most reserved people lean into the chaos in the best possible way.

The Starboard, of course, sits at the center of it all. Known for its famously strong Orange Crushes and anything-goes party vibe, the restaurant transforms into command central for the event. Music spills out into the street. Drinks are everywhere. Strangers become instant friends. You’ll see groups laughing, posing for photos, and cheering like they’ve been preparing for this moment all year — and honestly, some probably have.

What makes the Running of the Bull so entertaining isn’t just the theme. It’s the collective mood. There’s a shared understanding that the day is about letting loose, being ridiculous, and fully enjoying the fleeting magic of summer. People dance in the streets, toast to absolutely nothing, and soak up the kind of carefree energy that feels increasingly rare in adult life.

And then there are the little moments — the ones that truly define the experience. The oversized drinks clutched in sun-tanned hands. The sound of laughter cutting through the music. The inevitable blurry photos that somehow capture the day perfectly. Dewey has a way of creating memories that feel both wildly chaotic and strangely wholesome at the same time.

By the end of it all, you’re a little sun-kissed, slightly dehydrated, and already telling yourself you’ll be back next year. Because events like this aren’t just parties. They’re traditions. They’re stories. They’re the reason Dewey Beach holds such a firm grip on the hearts of the people who visit.

If you ever find yourself in Delaware during the summer, do yourself a favor: go to Dewey Beach, find The Starboard, and witness the Running of the Bull at least once. It’s loud, it’s crowded, it’s completely over the top — and that’s exactly why it’s perfect.

Favorite Spots: Dewey Beach, Delaware

The Starboard Restaurant is practically a rite of passage. Whether you’re starting your day there or somehow ending your night in the same spot, it’s impossible to visit Dewey without stepping inside at least once. The energy is always high, the music is always loud, and the drinks are famously generous. It’s the kind of place where brunch quietly turns into an all-day event and nobody questions it.

North Beach offers a completely different mood, which is part of Dewey’s charm. When you need a break from the crowds, this is where the town softens. The views are calmer, the space feels more open, and the pace slows down just enough to remind you that you’re still at the beach. It’s perfect for morning walks, sunset moments, or simply resetting after a long night.

Then there’s Bottle & Cork — a venue that feels legendary even if it’s your first visit. There’s something special about live music in a beach town, and this place captures that feeling perfectly. The setting is intimate, the crowds are electric, and the nights tend to blur into unforgettable memories. It’s not just a concert stop; it’s part of the Dewey Beach identity.

The Rusty Rudder brings an entirely different flavor to the Dewey experience. Sitting right on the bay, it’s one of those places where the setting does half the work. Open air, waterfront views, boats drifting by, and that golden-hour glow reflecting off the water — it’s the kind of backdrop that instantly puts you in vacation mode. During the day, it’s relaxed and scenic. By evening, it gradually shifts into a full-blown party.

Together, these spots capture the dual personality of Dewey Beach — high-energy and laid-back, wild and relaxing, all wrapped into one tiny, unforgettable town.

*Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Please let me know if you have any questions about anything listed above!

Leave a comment, message us, take a picture and tag it @kaitmanson or hashtag #letsgetkomfy on instagram!

If you like copious amounts of coffee, do it yourself decor and vegan meal preps then let's be internet friends. On this blog you will find lifestyle tips from travel tips to eco-friendly and sustainable products along with weekly fitness and nutrition information. If you don't already follow me on social media then be sure to check out the links below to get a peak into my life and sneak peaks to the latest videos and blog posts.

Grab your mugs and let's get komfy!

📷 instagram : @kaitmanson

🎥 youtube : kaitmanson

🧷 pinterest : letsgetkomfy