Brandywine Restaurant Week Starts Tomorrow

Rise and shine, 302. Sunshine and 70s all week is a gift. Let’s enjoy it.

Your 302 Rundown:

• Three new shows open in Northern Delaware

• Brandywine restaurant week returns Sept. 15–21

• Great Stuff expands to handle more donations

Let’s get to it

QUICK POLL

🗳️ Why do you read Above the Canal?

We love putting this newsletter together, and we’d love it even more if we knew exactly what you come here for. Take 2 seconds and let us know!

NEWS YOU CAN USE

🍽️ Brandywine Valley Restaurant Week is back

Ready for a delicious excuse to dine out every night? Brandywine Valley Restaurant Week returns September 15 through 21, and it’s celebrating its tenth year with serious flavor.

Two course lunches are just $20, and dinners (two or three courses) run $35 or $55 at some of the best locally owned restaurants around Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley. Spots like Bardea Steak, Columbus Inn, and La Fia are all in the mix. No chains, no corporate menus, just chef-driven specials you won’t get any other week.

Pro tip: Snap a pic of your plate and enter their photo contest for a chance at free lunch. Tasty and photogenic? Win win.

🚧 Nighttime ramp and lane closures near Newark this week

Heads up, late-night drivers, DelDOT will close ramps and lanes around Route 896, Route 72, and I-95 from Monday, September 15 through Thursday, September 18 during overnight hours.

The big one is Monday’s ramp from Route 896 north to I-95 north, closed 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., along with an overnight closure on 896 north near Old Baltimore Pike. Expect additional nighttime lane closures on 896 south, I-95 south, and Route 72 later in the week, generally starting between 7 and 9 p.m. and wrapping up by 5 or 6 a.m.

Plan your detour or leave a little early.

⛽ Gas prices take a dip in Delaware

Good news for your wallet. Gas prices in Delaware slipped a few cents last week as summer travel wrapped up and demand dropped.

AAA reports crude oil supply is outpacing demand, and the switch to cheaper winter blend fuel is also helping. Bargain hunters in New Castle County spotted prices under $2.90 a gallon at Costco and BJ’s.

With crude trading below $64 a barrel, the trend could stick around a little longer. Time to fill up before the fall road trips begin.

IN BUSINESS

🍔 Wendy’s makes a comeback in Bear

Guess who’s moving back into town? Wendy’s is opening a new spot at Sunset Plaza off Route 40, taking over the former Hardee’s building.

It has been nearly a decade since Wendy’s closed its last Bear location, but now the chain is back with burgers, Frosty treats, and that breakfast menu people swear by. Jersey Mike’s is also setting up shop nearby, making Sunset Plaza a fresh food hub.

If you have been missing your spicy nuggets fix close to home, the wait is finally over.

🛍️ A little treasure in Newark

Looking for a shop that feels more like a discovery? Delaware Today profiled The Little Treasure Shoppe, and it’s exactly what the name promises.

Run by mother–daughter team Sandi and Allison Patterson, the shop is packed with vintage gems, handmade jewelry, quirky ceramics, refurbished furniture, and creations from more than 40 local artists. They even host classes in knitting, macrame, watercolor, and more — plus there’s free coffee and free parking, which in Newark feels like finding gold.

It’s cozy, creative, and full of surprises. The perfect stop if you love hunting for unique finds or want to support local makers.

🛍️ Great Stuff is getting even greater

Shoppers in North Wilmington, rejoice. Great Stuff Savvy Resale & Home is expanding its footprint in the Talleyville Shopping Center, giving fans of the boutique even more to browse.

Known for designer clothing, jewelry, home décor, and one-of-a-kind finds, the shop donates proceeds to the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. The added space will allow for more treasures, thoughtfully designed displays, and extra room to handle donations, which means even more impact for DBCC programs.

If you love discovering unique pieces while supporting a good cause, this is a must-visit.

🍔 Farmer & The Cow finds a new home on Market Street

One of Wilmington’s most buzzed-about burger joints just got an upgrade. Farmer & The Cow, the downtown spot once featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-ins & Dives, has relocated four blocks north to 801 N. Market Street.

The new space is bigger, brighter, and comes with perks: booths, a roomy dining area, private event space, and even an outdoor patio. Don’t worry, the over-the-top burgers, boozy shakes, and bacon-loaded “That’ll Do Pig” are still on the menu.

If you haven’t been yet, this feels like the perfect excuse to make the trip.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

💵 Money back, no paperwork required

Nearly 2,800 Delaware taxpayers are set to receive surprise checks in the mail this month. The state’s MONEY MATCH program automatically reunites residents with unclaimed property, and this latest round is returning almost $400,000.

No claims, no forms, no hassle. Eligible residents will get a check based on data from recent tax returns. Since its launch in 2021, the program has delivered more than $5.6 million to nearly 40,000 Delawareans.

It is also a good reminder to search for unclaimed funds at unclaimedproperty.delaware.gov or missingmoney.com. You might have more waiting to be claimed.

🌿 Delaware’s bumpy road to recreational marijuana

Delaware Public Media reports the state’s new recreational marijuana market is off to a strong but uneven start. The Green’s latest episode highlights August sales topping $7.3 million, nearly double the previous monthly record.

Still, challenges remain. Sussex County’s strict zoning has left many license holders scrambling for viable locations, and a vetoed bill to relax buffer zones has created tension between lawmakers and Gov. Matt Meyer. Meanwhile, some cultivators are already planting and preparing to sell, while others wait on investors and permits.

It’s a mix of momentum and roadblocks, but one thing’s certain — Delaware’s cannabis industry is officially here to stay.

⚽ Delaware aims to score big with sports tourism

The Delaware Tourism Office has launched the second round of its TEAMS Program, which provides state funding to attract and expand sporting events across Delaware. The program supports new and existing competitions that bring visitors, increase hotel stays, and boost the state’s profile as a sports destination. Last year, TEAMS awarded $500,000 to 24 organizations, generating an estimated $75 million in economic impact. Read the full story at Delaware.gov.

OPENING ACTS & EXHIBITS

On Mondays, opening acts and exhibits are listed here when they debut. After that, you'll find individual dates in the regular Theatre/Arts listings.

🏒 Spinner: A gripping true story hits the stage

Delaware Theatre Company just dropped a world premiere. Spinner opens this week and runs through October 5.

Written by sportswriter and radio legend Ray Didinger, Spinner tells the wild and emotional story of NHL player Brian “Spinner” Spencer. It is not just about hockey. It is about ambition, obsession, and the price of chasing greatness. Spoiler: it is high.

Even if you have never watched a game, you will be hooked. This one has heart, grit, and some serious dramatic punch.

🎭 August: Osage County brings the drama this weekend

A missing dad, a sharp-tongued mother, and three sisters with way too many secrets. August: Osage County opens this Friday at Chapel Street Players and runs through September 27.

This Pulitzer Prize winning play dives deep into the messiness of family, with cutting humor and emotional gut punches. Violet Weston, the pill fueled matriarch, is reason enough to grab a ticket. Just don’t expect a feel-good ending.

Love a juicy family saga? This one is bold, biting, and beautifully acted.

🎶 The Treblemakers return for one night only

Delaware Children’s Theatre is kicking off its new season with something a little different. The Return of the Treblemakers is a one night cabaret event on September 20 at 7:30 PM.

This original show follows a musical trio reuniting at the café where it all began, but it is closing for good and old secrets bubble up fast. Think heartfelt harmonies, a little drama, and plenty of wine and cheese. Yes, really.

It is one night only, so if you are into cabaret, nostalgia, or just a good story set to music, you will want to snag tickets now.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. Just things worth knowing. I’ll always flag sponsors clearly.

DOG OF THE WEEK

Say hello to Monkey🐾

Meet Monkey, a five-year-old bundle of charm whose favorite things in life are tennis balls, belly rubs, and making new friends. With his sleek blue coat and expressive ears, Monkey is the kind of dog who turns heads at the park and then wins hearts with his goofy grin.

This happy guy is equal parts playful and affectionate. He will sprint after a ball with Olympic-level enthusiasm and then flop down in the grass for some well-earned snuggles. Bonus: he is dog-friendly, so he would love a buddy to share the fun with.

Monkey is the perfect mix of energy and sweetness, and he is ready to bring endless joy to his forever family. Could that be you?

Come meet Monkey at the BVSPCA’s New Castle campus.

✨ BVSPCA is also running its annual 2026 Picture PAWfect Calendar Contest. Your pet could be a star! Submit your favorite photo of your furry sidekick for a chance at a professional photo shoot and a spot in the 2026 calendar. First place will be featured on the cover, while 2nd through 12th place pets will each shine in a calendar month. Find all the details and register.

THE HAPPENINGS

Multiple Days

Brandywine Valley Restaurant Week – Greater Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley — Indulge in prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus at top-tier, locally owned restaurants during this annual celebration of regional cuisine. Monday through Sunday, September 15–21 at participating restaurants across Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley; lunches from $20, dinners from $35–$55.

Tuesday

Fuzaholics at Brandywine Mills Plaza — Kick back with a smooth blend of funk, soul, and jazz fusion as the Fuzaholics light up the evening in an open-air setting. Tuesday, September 16 at 5 PM. Free and open to the public.

Wednesday

Lunchtime Concert on the Arts Center Patio at Bellevue State Park — Enjoy a laid-back midday concert with acoustic duo John and June Gallagher while relaxing on the patio or in the music garden. Wednesday, September 17 at 12 PM. Free with paid park admission.

Alain Perez at the Levitt AMP Wilmington Music Series — Cuban jazz sensation Alain Perez brings his electrifying fusion of Latin rhythms and global grooves to Wilmington for a free outdoor show. Wednesday, September 17 at 6 PM.

Summer Concert Series: Tynisha – 7th & West Park, Wilmington — Groove to R&B and hip-hop with Tynisha at this free outdoor evening concert presented by Gable Music Ventures. Wednesday, September 17 from 6–7:30 PM.

Thursday

Golden Hour at Mt. Cuba Center — Sip, stroll, and soak up the early autumn glow during Mt. Cuba’s twilight garden experience with drinks and discounted evening admission. Thursday, September 18 from 4:30–7:30 PM. $10 after 4:30 PM, free for members, with drinks available for purchase.

Sculpture Garden Happy Hour: Mic Jam Battle at the Museum – Delaware Art Museum — Wrap up the happy hour season with a high-energy night of live music as 12 local acts battle it out on stage in a celebration of sound and creativity. Thursday, September 18 from 5–7:30 PM. Free admission, with a cash bar and food trucks on site.

FORECAST AT A GLANCE

Monday

82 🌡️ 61 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 9% | 💨 ENE 10 mph

Tuesday

76 🌡️ 62 | 🌦️ Scattered Showers | 34% | 💨 ENE 14 mph

Wednesday

69 🌡️ 63 | 🌧️ Showers | 51% | 💨 NE 11 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 73ºF
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

THE NOT SO SHORTLISTS

• 🥳 Casual Plans 

• 🌽 Farmers Markets

• 🧒 For the Kids (coming soon)

• 🧘 Health & Wellness

• 🎶 Live Music

• 🎭 Theatre/Arts 

• 🎨 Workshops & Classes

Quick favor? It helps more than you think 🙏

We’ve been getting a lot of love lately (thank you!). But here’s a little behind-the-scenes truth: when you click on things in this newsletter—links, polls, even the little “Read more” button—it tells the internet powers-that-be that Above the Canal is something people care about.

So if you like what you’re reading, tap below and let us know. It’s a small gesture that helps this whole local thing keep growing.

💬 Help us grow. Leave a review

If this newsletter makes your week better, the best way to support it is with a quick Facebook review. It helps more neighbors discover it — and keeps it going strong.

👉 Leave a quick review here: Facebook

APPRECIATE YA!

Thanks for reading. Share this with the friend who never met a free sample they didn’t like.

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up
Want your business featured in Above the Canal? Partner with us!
Interested in promoting your music? Feature your band!
Got a live show or event I missed? Just hit reply and let me know!

If Above the Canal adds value to your day, consider supporting it.

Let’s make it official—follow us on Facebook and Instagram!