Learn About WFM

 Founded in 1921 by Mrs. A. Felix DuPont, the Wilmington Flower Market stands as one of Delaware’s longest-running and most cherished service organizations.

What began as a grassroots effort to support the Hockessin and Babies’ Hospital (later known as St. Michael’s Day Nursery) quickly captured the hearts of the community. Mrs. DuPont invited friends and neighbors to donate whatever they could—and roughly 25 dedicated volunteers stepped up, contributing plants, baked goods, fresh flowers, and even household pets and livestock like kittens, puppies, birds, and guinea pigs!

Though heavy rain forced the inaugural festivities indoors to the old 11th Street Auditorium, the resilient spirit of the community shone through, raising over $1,500. On that rainy spring day in 1921, a beloved Delaware tradition was officially born.

Traditionally held during Mother’s Day weekend in May, the Wilmington Flower Market has continually evolved over the decades to welcome growing crowds and changing times. Throughout its long history, the Market has called only three locations home:

• Cool Spring Park (1921–1950)
• Brandywine Park (1950–1951)
• Rockford Park (1952–Present)

What started as a single-day gathering has expanded into a vibrant, three-day event. To make the Market accessible to as many people as possible, hours were extended, and since 1985, the Market has welcomed visitors Thursday through Saturday. 

• The Early Years: In the Market’s beginning, guests enjoyed catered luncheons under tents to the sounds of the George Madden Orchestra, along with Maypole dancing and scenic canoe rides on the lake. When spring showers hit, local neighbors stepped in, hosting Market displays right on the wrap-around porches along Park Place.
• The 1930s: Local merchants joined the event, planting the seeds for today’s Market Merchants. Puppet shows and children’s entertainment were introduced, along with the first Sunday Star newspaper rotogravure insert. The influx of local advertising allowed the Market to significantly boost funding for its beneficiaries.
• The War Years (1940s): WWII brought challenges, but Delaware's spirit held strong. Volunteers adapted, adding garden tools, fertilizer, and seeds for Victory Gardens alongside traditional plants. Luncheons shifted to a quick-service snack bar, and community fundraisers included War Bond auctions and White Elephant tables. During one famous wartime raffle for a new Chevrolet, donated nylon stockings and cigarettes proved just as sought-after as the car itself!
• 1949: Reaching over 800 volunteers, the organization formed the "Committee of 100" to make direct funding appeals. Combined with supplement revenue, the Flower Market distributed an incredible $40,000 to 15 local child-care agencies.
• The 1980s Transformation:
  
  • 1981: The official Flower Market Commemorative Poster and Print debuted, featuring original artwork by a local artist—a tradition that continues today.
  • 1982: Embracing the era's fitness movement, the inaugural Flower Market 5K Run/Walk took off. That same year, WDEL began broadcasting live from the park grounds, becoming the Market’s official radio partner.
  • 1983: A major infrastructure upgrade brought an underground electrical system to Rockford Park, eliminating the need for temporary utility poles and giving the Market its beautiful, open landscape.

Because outdoor events are always at the mercy of spring weather, the organization developed creative "pre-Market" fundraising initiatives over the years. Popular events like our Fashion Show, Art Show, Guest Bartending nights, Wine Tastings, and the annual Supplement serve as vital "rain insurance." Rain or shine, these events ensure that the Flower Market can consistently deliver essential funding to our beneficiary organizations each year.

The continued legacy of the Wilmington Flower Market is driven entirely by the passion, talent, and dedication of thousands of volunteers, local businesses, and community members. By working together with a shared purpose, we remain steadfast in our mission to protect and support Delaware’s most valuable resource—our children.