2019-12-19 06:25:15
From food festivals to major sporting events, there’s always something big going on in Maryland. Browse this calendar of events for a taste of what’s happening. Don’t forget to confirm details before traveling, as they are subject to change.
January 20
20th Annual MLK Parade Baltimore
Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd between
Eutaw St and Baltimore St
Downtown Baltimore
Parade commemorates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
February 1
Fire In Ice
Downtown Frederick
Frederick County
www.visitfrederick.org/events/fire-in-ice
Enjoy late night shopping and dining along with beautiful ice sculptures, fire dancers, and an ice playground. Warm up with hot cocoa, s’mores and fire stations throughout Downtown Frederick.
February 22
Deep Creek Dunk – Freezin’ for a Reason
19814 Garrett Hwy, Oakland, Garrett County
Take an icy dip in Deep Creek Lake to raise funds for Special Olympics Maryland. Fee for registration.
Spirits of Southern Maryland
Patuxent River Naval Air Museum
22156 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park
St. Mary’s County
https://marylandspirits.org/event/spirits-of-maryland-southern-md
Sample Maryland spirits amidst a grand collection of historic naval aircraft and exhibits dedicated to naval aviation’s past, present and future. This event will feature full access to the state-of-the-art museum, live music, light appetizers and chats and seminars for VIP participants.
February 28–29
National Outdoor Show
South Dorchester K-8 School
3485 Golden Hill Rd, Church Creek
Dorchester County
https://nationaloutdoorshow.org
Welcome to Muskrat Country, the heartland of sportsmen, trappers, watermen and wildlife. Learn about this area in much the same way as our first settlers did when they discovered the Indians who shared their knowledge of trapping, skinning, fur dealing, hunting, fishing, crabbing and oystering.
February 29
Love on Tap Beer Festival
Roland E. Powell Convention Center
4001 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City
Worcester County
www.shorecraftbeerfest.com/love-on-tap.html
Fifth annual Love on Tap Shore Craft Beer Festival offering local craft beer, live music and lots of fun. This festival is craft beer meets tourism! Take a tour of the Eastern Shore inside Ocean City’s Convention Center and walk through local towns known for their local craft beer to find out why we deserve to be one of the top ten craft beer destinations in the country.
March 26–29
Annapolis Film Festival
Citywide at participating venues
Multiple locations, Annapolis
Anne Arundel County
www.visitannapolis.org/events/annual/annapolis-film-festival
The Annapolis Film Festival returns to downtown Annapolis March 26 – March 29 with a full slate of more than 70 films. The festival includes four-days of films, panels, parties, showcases, coffee talks and Q&A’s with filmmakers. Check our website for a complete list of all narrative features, documentary features and shorts films.
April 3–November 7
Port Tobacco Historic Village First Weekends
Port Tobacco Courthouse
Off Rt 6 on Chapel Point Rd, Port Tobacco
Charles County
Port Tobacco Historic Village offers walking tours featuring historic and replica structures from 1608-1971.
April 3–13
PEEPshow
Carroll Arts Center
91 West Main St, Westminster
Carroll County
www.carrollcountyartscouncil.org/aa_peepshow.asp
Creative and kid-friendly sculpture event displaying wacky marshmallow PEEP© masterpieces created by local artists, businesses and community groups.
April 4
Discovering Archaeology Day
Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum
10515 Mackall Rd, St. Leonard
Calvert County
https://jefpat.maryland.gov/pages/events/annual-events.aspx
Discover your inner Indiana Jones through hands-on activities including archaeology-site-in-a-can, interactive archaeology exhibits and cataloguing activities.
April 4–5
Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
213 North Talbot St, St. Michaels
Talbot County
http://cbmm.org/events/annual-festivals-and-special-events
The annual Eastern Shore Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival in St. Michaels will now have a larger, waterfront location at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. The festival now includes scenic river cruises, live music, food and libations.
April 17–19
Bay Bridge Boat Show
Bay Bridge Marina
357 Pier One Rd, Stevensville
Queen Anne’s County
www.annapolisboatshows.com/bay-bridge-boat-show
Kick off your boating season at the Bay Bridge Boat Show. The largest spring in-water boat show north of Florida will feature more than 400 powerboats from seven to 70 feet including an impressive collection of fishing boats, center consoles, trawlers, express cruisers, pontoon boats, luxury cruisers, jet skis, jet boats, ski boats, bowriders, inflatables, kayaks, SUPs and canoes. Explore more than 100 exhibitor booths, food court and children’s area. Fun for the whole family.
April 19
Fairy and Gnome Home Festival
Anne Marie Sculpture Garden and Art Center
13470 Dowell Rd, Solomons, Calvert County
www.annmariegarden.org/annmarie2/content/fairy-gnome-home-festival-tour
An over the top magical afternoon of games, unicorn rides, crafts, build your own fairy house, music, food and drinks.
April 23–26
Spring Delmarva Birding Weekend
Various locations throughout
Worcester County
Celebrate the migration of hundreds of shore birds and waterfowl along Maryland’s coast. Guided by local fun-loving birders with decades-long experience, the walking tours, boat trips and canoe and kayak paddles will accommodate visitors from the curious nature lover to fowl fanatics.
April 24–27
18th-Century Market Fair at Fort Frederick
Fort Frederick
11100 Fort Frederick Rd, Big Pool
Washington County
Reenactors firing period weapons, 150 artisans, encampment, living history programs and sutlers demonstrating their craft.
April 25
Maryland Hunt Cup
Worthington Valley
2700 Tufton Ave, Reisterstown
Baltimore County
Grab a picnic and a blanket or your fanciest tailgate attire and join us for the great Maryland tradition of steeplechase racing.
May TBA
Canal Pride Days
Along the C&O Canal
Rallying Points to be announced, Montgomery County
www.canaltrust.org/programs/canal-pride-days
Canal Pride is the signature volunteer program that rallies more than 1,000 volunteers annually to perform a range of preservation and beautification projects in the Park. Canal Pride engages local communities in shared stewardship of this treasured recreational, natural and historical resource.
Commissioning Week & Blue Angels Air Show
Banks of the Severn River on the USNA campus
Public Viewing near the Severn River
Annapolis, Anne Arundel County
www.visitannapolis.org/events/annual/commissioning-week
The United States Naval Academy prepares for a week of tradition, ceremony, and celebration for its graduating class of 2020. Commissioning Week offers a host of events, some available to the public, that provide a taste of the history and tradition of the United States Naval Academy, along with an airshow put on by the famed Blue Angels.
DelFest
Allegany County Fairgrounds
11400 Moss Ave, Cumberland, Allegany County
DelFest offers stellar Bluegrass performances and one-of-a-kind musical collaborations over Memorial Day weekend.
Fair Hill Races
Fair Hill Fairgrounds
4640 Telegraph Rd, Elkton, Cecil County
410-398-2578, 1-800-CECIL-95
An annual steeplechase horse race since 1934 with parimutuel betting, vendors and children’s entertainment from face painting to pony rides.
Maryland Craft Beer Festival
Carroll Creek Linear Park
44 South Market St, Frederick
Frederick County
More than 25 Maryland brewing companies sampling 175 unique, local beers with exclusive access to small-batch beers and one-of-a-kind casks. A family-friendly environment with live music featuring local bluegrass/Americana/folk music.
Scottish Games
Fair Hill Race Track
4600 Telegraph Rd, Intersections of MD rts
273 & 213, Elkton, Cecil County
http://fairhillscottishgames.org
410-398-1246, 1-800-CECIL-95
A day of celebrating Scottish traditions with athletics, highland dance, piping, drumming, bagpipe bands, sheep dog demonstrations, vendors and food.
May 2
Jazz & Blues, Wine & Brews
Throughout the Town of Berlin
Worcester County
https://berlinchamber.org/jazz-blue-bash
Music Festival and tasting event. Enjoy two stages of live blues and jazz, food and tastings with lots of shopping and vendors in America’s coolest small town!
Kinetic Sculpture Race
On the shores of Baltimore’s Harbor
Baltimore, Baltimore City
The American Visionary Art Museum hosts this race of human-powered works of art. Racers compete for awards like “next to last” and “mediocre champion” weaving through 15 miles of land, sea and mud across the city, resulting in an adrenaline-fueled parade of entertainment.
Solomons Maritime Festival
Calvert Marine Museum
14100 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons
Calvert County
www.calvertmarinemuseum.com/233/annual-events
Antique boat and marine engine show, learn how to pick crabs, see Chesapeake Bay retrievers in action and talk with traditional Maryland craftsmen.
May 2–3
Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival
Howard County Fair Grounds
2210 Fairgrounds Rd, West Friendship
Howard County
Featuring more than 800 sheep, sheep shows, sheep breeds display, parade of breeds, all kinds of demonstrations (including working sheepdogs, sheep shearing, spinning and weaving), sheep to shawl contest, fleece show and sale, workshops and seminars, special activities for kids, cooking demonstrations, food booths, musical entertainment and more than 275 vendors.
Towsontown Spring Festival and Gardens Day
Towson Court House Gardens
400 Washington Ave, Towson
Baltimore County
www.towsontownspringfestival.com
The largest outdoor festival in Maryland and one of the largest on the East Coast, with approximately 250,000 visitors.
May 2–August 28
Town of La Plata Summer Concert Series
La Plata Town Hall
305 Queen Anne St, La Plata
Charles County
The Friday night Summer Concert Series takes place on the lawn at La Plata Town Hall. Concert goers are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs for sitting. The Kids’ Zone allows parents to enjoy the concert while keeping an eye on the little ones.
May 7–10
Springfest
Inlet Lot at the south end of the Ocean City Boardwalk
Ocean City
https://ococean.com/events/springfest
Four dynamic days of food, live musical entertainment and unique arts & crafts under four huge big-top tents.
May 16
Kent Island Day
Historic Stevensville Town Center
Main St and citywide, Stevensville
Queen Anne’s County
www.kentislandheritagesociety.org
Celebration of the founding of Kent Island! Event is from 10:30am-4:30pm and will offer food, entertainment, craft vendors and historic displays. Parade begins at 10:30am.
The Preakness Stakes
Pimlico Race Course
5201 Park Heights Ave, Baltimore
Baltimore City
This 145-year-old Baltimore tradition is held at Pimlico Race Course as the horses compete for the second jewel of the Triple Crown. Enjoy a full day of racing from the grandstand or party at InfieldFest with concerts on multiple stages right in the middle of the racetrack.
May 16–17
Wine in the Woods
Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods
10630 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia
Howard County
Wine in the Woods is one of the premiere events in the region and a source of pride for Howard County. Recreation and Parks put on this two-day event highlighting more than 25 Maryland wineries. In addition to the wineries, the event attracts almost 50 artisans, musicians on two stages and over 20 food vendors.
May 22–24
Chestertown Tea Party Festival
Near the Chester River and throughout
Chestertown, Kent County
(Memorial Day Weekend). The festival marks the anniversary of one of the area’s most notable historic events, when the citizens of Chestertown—in an act to show resistance to British rule—tossed a ship’s cargo of tea overboard into the Chester River in 1774. The festival’s Tea Toss reenactment is the centerpiece of the event which includes a Friday night Block Party, Saturday 5K & 10-mile races, craft beer and local wine samples, craft vendors, street performances, street parade and more. Sunday continues with a fun-filled wakey raft race.
May 30
Maryland Freedom Swim
Dorchester Visitor Center
2 Rosehill Pl, Cambridge, Dorchester County
https://runsignup.com/race/md/cambridge/marylandfreedomswim
Who hasn’t driven over the Frederick C Malkus Jr bridge (Choptank River Bridge) on Rt 50 and wondered what it would be like to swim from one side to the other? Well if you are one of THOSE folks, this is a race for you. Join us as we navigate the Choptank River, between the bridges from the the Talbot County side to the Sailwinds Park beach access point on the Dorchester County side. This 2.0 mile trip across the Choptank River will be supported by paddle craft, motor craft and the USCG.
May 31–June 13
National Music Festival
Venues in Chestertown and throughout
Kent County
Kent County is transformed into a hub of music for two weeks. The event pairs gifted apprentice musicians with world-class mentors. The performers get together for open, free rehearsal and incredible performances in venues across the county in orchestral and chamber repertoire. All rehearsals are free and open to the public. However, some concerts require a ticket.
June TBA
AFI Docs Film Festival
AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center
8633 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring
Montgomery County
The Hollywood Reporter calls it the “premier showcase for documentary film.” AFI DOCS is the nation’s documentary film festival known for showcasing the best in documentary filmmaking from the U.S. and around the world.
Capital Jazz Fest
Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods
10630 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia
Howard County
Multi-day, multi-stage outdoor music festival. Festival marketplace with arts and crafts, specialty food court and meet and greet with artists.
Columbia Festival of the Arts
Various Locations Downtown Columbia
10275 Wincopin Cir, Columbia
Howard County
An annual celebration of the arts in a broad spectrum of art forms and cultures, encouraging interaction among artists and audiences, and featuring local and national artists.
Frogfest
Downtown Federalsburg, Caroline County
www.facebook.com/federalsburgfrogfest
This fun-filled day includes a Youth Fishing Derby, Kayak Poker Run and Frogfest, featuring rides, music, food, vendors, fireworks and more.
Heritage Days
Washington Street Historic District
Washington and Baltimore sts, Cumberland, Allegany County
Cumberland’s annual Heritage Days Festival marks the traditional beginning of summer. Heritage Days has something for everyone.
June 4–7
95th Anniversary of Deep Creek Lake
15 Visitors Center Dr, McHenry
Garrett County
Celebrate the 95th anniversary of Deep Creek Lake with events, specials and discounts at participating businesses around Garrett County.
June 5–7
Havre de Grace Jazz & Blues Fest
Cultural Center at the Opera House and various venues in town
121 N Union Ave, Havre de Grace
Harford County
Last year’s line-up included: Mindy Abair and the Boneshakers, Johnny Neel, Cab Calloway Orchestra, Nico Sarbanes Trio, Eric Byrd Trio, Rising Stars and many more. Check website for the 2020 schedule.
June 12
Whiskey Rebellion
Allegany Museum
3 Pershing St, Cumberland, Allegany County
https://whiskeyrebellioncumberland.com/events-and-activities
Enjoy tastings of whiskey and other spirits, historic re-enactments, colonial ‘pub’ room with authentic colonial games, canapés and more to commemorate George Washington’s visit to Cumberland to lead the suppression of the 1794 Whiskey Rebellion.
June 13-14
Heritage Days
Museums, Parks and Historic sites
countywide, Montgomery County
www.heritagemontgomery.org/events/heritage-days
Heritage Days is a festival that highlights historic, cultural and outdoor recreation sites with special programs including exhibits & demonstrations, live music, activities for children and much more! Heritage Days is the perfect chance to enjoy many small sites that are not regularly open to the public.
June 13–14
OC Air Show
Ocean City Beach Area
15th St & Boardwalk, Ocean City
The Air Show is visible along the entire length of the Boardwalk, creating an inspiring experience for visitors.
June 19–20
Antique & Classic Boat Festival & The Arts at Navy Point
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
213 North Talbot St, St. Michaels
Talbot County
http://cbmm.org/events/annual-festivals-and-special-events
Old boats, cool waterfront fun with wooden and fiberglass classics, vintage racers and other antique and Chesapeake Bay-related boats, along with a juried arts maritime arts show.
June 20
Drink Maryland-Centreville
Downtown Centreville
Lawyers Row & Broadway, Centreville
Queen Anne’s County
Browse local products, handmade crafts and enjoy live music and delicious food—all while learning about the local craft beverage industries of Maryland.
June–September
Summer Evening Concerts at Boordy Vineyards
Boordy Vineyards
12820 Long Green Pike, Hydes
Baltimore County
www.boordy.com/visit-the-vineyard/events
Enjoy wine tasting, picnicking and dancing under the stars to popular live bands!
July 4
Fire on the Mountain July
4th Fireworks Display
Wisp Resort overlooking Deep Creek Lake
296 Marsh Hill Rd, McHenry, Garrett County
www.visitdeepcreek.com/pages/fireonthemountainfireworksdisplay
Fireworks display launched at Wisp Resort out toward the waters of Deep Creek Lake. Rain date: July 5.
July 10–12
Potomac Jazz & Seafood Festival
St. Clement’s Island Museum (& Leonardtown)
38370 Point Breeze Rd, Colton’s Point & Leonardtown, St. Mary’s County
https://potomacjazzandseafoodfestival.com
Music and food event featuring jazz artists and an array of seafood delicacies at the museum lawn on the Potomac; admission by reservation only. Free activites on Friday and Sunday at Leonardtown.
July 11
Sharkfest!
Calvert Marine Museum
14100 Solomons Island Rd, Solomons
Calvert County
www.calvertmarinemuseum.com/233/annual-events
Hands-on opportunities to explore sharks. Learn shark facts, examine evidence of prehistoric sharks, make shark crafts, take selfies with prehistoric and live modern-day sharks.
Taste of Cambridge Crab Cook-Off and Festival
Downtown Cambridge
Poplar and Race sts, Cambridge
Dorchester County
https://downtowncambridge.org/event/taste-of-cambridge-crab-cook-off
It’s free to visit this beloved festival and enjoy live music, vendors, crafts for kids and festival competitions. Get there early to sign up for the kids Watermelon Eating Contest and Hula Hoop Contest at the kid’s zone. But, you must have a ticket to taste all of the delicious crab dishes. Taste, compare and vote for your favorite in each crab dish category.
July 12–19
Plein Air Easton Art Festival and Competition
Historic Downtown Easton
Easton, Talbot County
View and buy works from 58 juried artists at events throughout the nine-day festival, one of the largest and most prestigious juried outdoor painting competitions in the country.
July 15
J.M. Tawes Crab & Clam Bake
Somers Cove Marina
715 Broadway, Crisfield, Somerset County
www.crisfieldevents.com/clambake
All-you-care-to-eat seafood (crabs/clams/fish/beverages) with a side of entertainment at Somers Cove Marina; named for Maryland’s 54th governor.
July 17–19
Artscape
Station North Arts & Entertainment District
Baltimore, Baltimore City
America’s largest free arts festival features more than 150 artists, designers and craftspeople, plus three nights of outdoor concerts and performances by national acts.
July 24–August 1
Cecil County Fair
Fair Hill Fairgrounds
4640 Telegraph Rd, Elkton, Cecil County
Enjoy this old-fashioned country fair with rodeo, demolition derby, midway, & tractor pulls, 4H exhibits and entertainment.
July 25
Food Truck Trifecta
Maryland State Fairgrounds
2200 York Rd, Timonium, Baltimore County
40+ of Baltimore’s favorite savory & sweet food trucks! Awesome live music! Family friendly event!
July–September
Dinner Under the Stars
Historic Downtown Annapolis
Restaurants on West St, Annapolis
Anne Arundel County
www.visitannapolis.org/discover/articles/dinner-under-the-stars
Each and every Wednesday from July to mid-September, restaurants on West Street will be taking al fresco dining in historic Downtown Annapolis to a new level with café tables on the brick streets, closed to traffic, plus live music, overhead light canopy for ambiance and special art exhibits.
August TBA
National Clustered Spires High Wheel Race
Downtown Frederick
124 N Market St, Frederick
Frederick County
America’s only High-Wheel (Penny Farthing) bike race featuring racers from across the nation. Watch qualifying heats of racers riding antique or replica 19th-Century bikes as they compete for the National Title.
Summerfest
Downtown Denton
Market St, Denton, Caroline County
Family festival featuring three stages of local entertainment, performers, artisans, free KidzArt activities, the Choptak Rivah Run and fireworks.
August 1
Blessing of the Combines
Downtown Snow Hill
Snow Hill, Worcester County
http://blessingofthecombines.org/new
Annual celebration of our agricultural heritage with a combine parade, petting barnyard, hayrides, children’s tractor pull and vendors.
August 2
Latino Festival
Maryland State Fairgrounds
2200 York Rd, Timonium, Baltimore County
Come celebrate Latin American culture at the State Fairgrounds, with great food and many nationally known music and entertainment performers.
Sudlersville Peach Festival
Godfrey’s Farm
302 Leager Rd, Sudlersville
Queen Anne’s County
Event with local bands, great homemade food including everything from pit beef to peach cobbler. Local vendors offering the best handmade crafts and great family activities. Great time for the entire family!
August 3–7
White Marlin Open
Harbour Island Marina
14th Street on the Bay, Ocean City
https://ococean.com/things-to-do/fishing/white-marlin-open
World’s largest billfish tournament! Come watch fish weigh-ins Monday-Friday at Harbour Island Marina.
August 8
Beach Party on the Square
Throughout the town of Leonardtown
22670 Washington St, Leonardtown
St. Mary’s County
https://leonardtown.somd.com/beachparty
Fun in the sun! End your summer with sand volleyball, non-stop party band, firetruck hose-downs, strolling entertainers, paddle boarding, large inflatable slides, fun foods and general summer fun in the Square in Leonardtown.
August 14–15
Maryland BBQ Bash
Downtown Bel Air
Mary Risteau Courthouse, Bond & Thomas
sts, Bel Air, Harford County
https://downtownbelair.com/md-bbq-bash
Barbeque-themed street event featuring top-quality competition and local BBQ dishes, musical performances, crafters, sponsored displays and more.
August 14–16
Pirates and Wenches Fantasy Weekend
Rock Hall
Venues throughout town, Rock Hall
Kent County
A town-wide themed party featuring a Sea Shanty sing-a-long, rum tasting, decorated dinghy contest, Caribbean beach party at Rock Hall beach along the magnificent Chesapeake Bay, Buccaneer’s Ball, treasure hunt, pirate performers, lots of entertainment and more.
August 14–22
Montgomery County Agricultural Fair
Montgomery County Agricultural Center
501 Perry Pkwy, Gaithersburg
Montgomery County
301-963-FAIR
The largest agricultural county fair in Maryland; features farm animals, rides, food and entertainment.
August 15
Hot August Music Festival
Oregon Ridge Park
13403 Beaver Dam Rd, Cockeysville
Baltimore County
www.hotaugustmusicfestival.com
Don’t let the heat get you down. Join us for great music and an all-together great time.
Legacy Day
Venues throughout Chestertown
Kent County
http://garpost25.org/about-us/legacyday
Legacy Day celebrates the rich cultural heritage of African Americans in Kent County; each year has a different theme. The day is filled with exhibitions, a genealogy workshop, a gospel concert and other activities in various venues. Food, drink and craft vendors will be set up in Fountain Park (in downtown Chestertown) throughout the day. The day of celebration finishes with a dance party on High Street featuring a live band.
August 15–16
Augustoberfest
City Center
Central Parking Lot, Hagerstown
Washington County
301-739-8577 ext 116
A festival highlighting Hagerstown’s German Heritage. Authentic Bavarian food, entertainment and vendors.
August 21–23
Wicomico County Fair
WinterPlace Park
6737 Blue Ribbon Rd, Salisbury
Wicomico County
The Wicomico County Fair features rides and games, animals, food, entertainment, vendors, auctions and of course, lots of Farm and Home Show competitions. This annual event is produced by the Wicomico Farm and Home Show and Wicomico County. Admission and parking are free.
August 27–September 7
Horseland at the Maryland State Fair
Maryland State Fairgrounds
2200 York Rd, Timonium, Baltimore County
Immerse yourself in everything horses. From hands-on crafts and education to stick horse races and more.$
See ad on pages 14.
Maryland State Fair
Maryland State Fairgrounds
2200 York Rd, Timonium, Baltimore County
Nearly a half-million visitors each year attest to what has become a favorite summer tradition—the 11 best days of summer.
August–October
Maryland Renaissance Festival
Revel Grove
1821 Crownsville Rd, Annapolis
Anne Arundel County
www.visitannapolis.org/events/annual/renaissance-festival
The Maryland Renaissance Festival welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in a recreated 16th-century English village. Take a day to wander through 16th-century England while experiencing jesters, jousters, knights, live music and activities. You’ll discover a new world full of family-fun, entertainment, food, and more at the Maryland Renaissance Festival.
August–December
Navy Football
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
550 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis
Anne Arundel County
www.visitannapolis.org/discover/articles/navy-football-in-annapolis-your-complete-guide
Anyone who’s been to Annapolis during the fall knows about the spirited atmosphere that engulfs the city during football season. Every Naval Academy home game, the city swells to capacity with fans from all around flooding into the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium to catch the Midshipmen in action.
September TBA
Alpaca Festival
Outstanding Dreams Farm
24480 Pinetown Rd, Preston
Caroline County
Annual festival featuring handcrafted alpaca fiber goods, food, arts and crafts, children’s activities, fiber arts demonstrations and lovable alpacas.
Maryland Microbrewery Festival
Union Mills Homestead & Grist Mill
3311 Littlestown Pike, Westminster
Carroll County
https://unionmills.org/events/maryland-microbrewery-festival
Day of tasting Maryland microbrews and handcrafted beers at scenic, historic Union Mills Homestead featuring music, beer seminars, crafts and food.
September 6
Defenders Day at North Point
Fort Howard Park
9500 North Point Rd, Edgemere
Baltimore County
www.dundalkhistory.org/defendersday.html
Commemorate the Battle of North Point, part of the defense of Baltimore, when British troops invaded in 1814.
September 11–13
National Folk Festival
Downtown Salisbury
100-110 Circle Ave, Salisbury
Wicomico County
The oldest, longest-running multicultural traditional arts celebration in the country. The free event features continuous music, a dance pavilion, traditional crafts, regional food, storytelling, parades and folklife demonstrations.
September 12
Deep Creek Lake Art, Wine & Beer Festival
270 Mosser Rd, McHenry
Garrett County
Art, craft beer & wine tastings, live music, wine-pairing dinners and lodging packages.
Indigenous Heritage Day
Historic St. Mary’s City
47414 Old State House Rd, St. Mary’s
City, St. Mary’s County
https://hsmcdigshistory.org/event/indian-discovery
Explore and celebrate Indian lifeways and culture. Learn skills, try crafts, watch demonstrations, and gain a new appreciation for the people that called this land home before Maryland was founded.
September 18–20
Berlin Fiddler’s Convention
Downtown Berlin
Berlin, Worcester County
https://berlinchamber.org/fiddlersconvention
Free family-friendly event in downtown historic Berlin offering Bluegrass, Celtic, Irish and Cajun musicians competing for prizes in fiddle, banjo, mandolin and full band categories.
September 19
Baltimore County African American
Cultural Festival
Towson Courthouse Plaza/Patriot Plaza
401 Bosley Ave, Towson
Baltimore County
Celebrate the rich and thriving traditions of the African American community. Renowned and local entertainers, small and large businesses and more than 40,000 attendees.
September 19–20
Maryland Wine Festival
Carroll County Farm Museum
500 S Center St, Westminster
Carroll County
A tasting of Maryland wines, continuous on-stage entertainment, crafts and delicious cuisine.
See ad on this page.
September 24–27
Sunfest
Inlet Lot at the south end of the OC
Boardwalk, Ocean City
Ocean City’s biggest and best festival with four dynamic days of food, live music and unique arts & crafts under four huge big-top tents.
September 26
Dorchester Heritage Skipjack Races
Long Wharf Park
Foot of High St, Cambridge
Dorchester County
This event features the traditional oyster dredging boats that are unique to the Chesapeake Bay. About 26 actively sailing skipjacks exist today. A small Skipjack Festival will also be held at Long Wharf Park, with food vendors and exhibitors. The Choptank Heritage Skipjack race is one of only two such events worldwide. It attracts regional and maritime historians, boating enthusiasts and professional photographers from all over the country. This a free event and everyone is invited to see these historic boats, including several that are more than 60 years old, as well as a few that are over 100 years old.
Legacy Chase
Shawan Downs
1401 Shawan Rd, Cockeysville
Baltimore County
Featuring multiple steeplechase races, $50,000 in purse money, live music, wine tasting and family-friendly fun.
October TBA
Fair Hill International
Fair Hill
4640 Telegraph Rd, Elkton
Cecil County
The Dutta Corp. Fair Hill International is a world-class, multi-day equestrian competition with vendors, family activities, food. On the weekends, enjoy live music, dog agility and frisbee dogs demos.
Garden Show
Ladew Topiary Gardens
3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton
Harford County
www.ladewgardens.com/education/family-education/gardenglow
Great Allegany Relay
Canal Place
Canal St, Cumberland, Allegany County
Run a two-day non-stop relay through the Great Allegheny Passage! Build an awesome team of your running buddies, your freakishly-fit family, and anyone else ready to prove that they have what it takes to RUN WILD.
October 1–31
Free Fall
Citywide at participating venues
Baltimore, Baltimore City
Enjoy an entire month of free arts and cultural events throughout the city. Area museums, attractions and organizations showcase the power of the arts with special concerts, performances, workshops, exhibitions, tours and festivals.
October 3
Rocktoberfest
Downtown La Plata
La Grange Ave, La Plata
Charles County
www.facebook.com/rocktoberfestlp
Rocktoberfest is a family fun day filled with great live music, street & food vendors and a kid zone. It rocks rain or shine.
October 7–11
53rd Annual Autumn Glory Festival
Various locations throughout
Garrett County
www.visitdeepcreek.com/53rd-annual-autumn-glory-festival
Fall foliage tours, parades, antiques and craft shows, Oktoberfest, music contests and more.
October 9–10
Good Beer Festival
Pemberton Historical Park
5561 Plantation Ln, Salisbury Wicomico County
Taste from more than 100 American craft brews at the Eastern Shore’s largest craft beer festival.
October 10
FallFest
Rock Hall
Townwide, Rock Hall, Kent County
www.kentcounty.com/events/annual/34-rock-hall-fall-fest
Rock Hall pays homage to the almighty oyster by inviting guests to savor oyster stew and fried oysters while browsing dozens of artisan and craft booths. The festival highlights a variety of live music performances, children’s activities and opportunities to explore beautiful Rock Hall. For more information visit our website.
Nanticoke River Jamboree
Handsell
4837 Indiantown Rd, North of Vienna
Dorchester County
https://nanticokeriverjamboree.com
The county’s largest living history event, the Jamboree celebrates the history, culture and natural wonders of the Nanticoke River.
October 10–11
Catoctin Colorfest
Thurmont Community Park
21 Frederick Rd, Thurmont
Frederick County
www.visitfrederick.org/events/catoctin-colorfest
Local art, jewelry, crafts and a variety of delicious food are just a few of the fun things you will find at this annual event! Catoctin Colorfest, located in Thurmont, is one of the largest outdoor craft shows on the East Coast and is held as the area’s vibrant leaves are changing.
October 17
Fall Harvest Celebration
Carroll County Farm Museum
500 S Center St, Westminster, Carroll County
www.carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org
Scarecrow making, wagon rides, apple butter making, country food, crafts, entertainment, old-fashioned games and farmhouse tours.
See ad on page 53.
October 17–18
Autumn Wine Festival
Pemberton Historical Park
5561 Plantation Ln, Salisbury
Wicomico County
Explore Maryland wine from one picturesque location on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Held in partnership with the Maryland Wineries Association.
U.S. Oyster Festival
St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds
42455 Fairgrounds Rd, Leonardtown
St. Mary’s County
Celebrate the opening of the Chesapeake Bay’s oyster season while enjoying the U.S. National Oyster Shucking Championships & National Oyster Cook-Off.
October 31
OysterFest
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
213 North Talbot St, St. Michaels
Talbot County
Features oysters served a variety of ways, along with other local fare, craft beer and spirits. Other festivities include live music on two stages, scenic river cruises aboardWinnie Estelle, an oyster stew competition, Chesapeake Bay retriever demonstrations, children’s activities and more.
November 7
American Indian Heritage Day
Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum
10515 Mackall Rd, St. Leonard
Calvert County
https://jefpat.maryland.gov/pages/events/annual-events.aspx
Visit our recreated Native American village for a day filled with activities. Celebrate Native American achievements and learn about history.
November 13–15
Waterfowl Festival
Citywide
Harrison St, Easton, Talbot County
World-class wildlife art and sportsman’s expo that celebrates the Eastern Shore lifestyle and honors a commitment to conservation.
November 19–December 31
Winterfest of Lights
Northside Park
125th St, Bayside, Ocean City
https://ococean.com/events/all-events
More than one million holiday lights sparkle throughout your favorite beach resort. Hundreds of animated, lighted displays.
November 21–22
Valley Craft Network Studio Tour
Middletown and Pleasant Valley areas Towns along South Mountain including Rohrersville, Keedysville, Boonsboro, Gapland, Weverton and others Washington County
This annual event always takes place the Saturday and Sunday before Thanksgiving. Currently there are 16 fine artists and craftspeople in our Network. During the Tour weekend we invite you to stop by our studios and showrooms for an up-close view of our creative process. A printable brochure and map of the VCN Tour is available on our website.
November–December
Holidays in Baltimore
Inner Harbor Ice Rink & German Christmas Village, Miracle on 34th St, Mayor’s Parade in Hampden, B&O Railroad Events, Fells Point Olde Tyme Christmas, and dozens more events
Citywide throughout Baltimore, Baltimore City
https://baltimore.org/ultimate-guide/holiday-events
There’s no better place to celebrate the magical holiday season than in Baltimore. Get in the spirit with the impressive display at Miracle on 34th Street where an entire block of houses is covered in lights and baubles, twirl past beautiful waterfront views at the outdoor Inner Harbor Ice Rink, complete your gift shopping at the authentic German Christmas Village and so much more!
November-January 2021
Christmas on the Potomac & ICE!
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
201 Waterfront St, National Harbor
Prince George’s County
Must-see holiday attraction and award-winning celebration with gingerbread decorating, ice skating, workshops and ICE sculpture event.
November 21-January 3, 2021
Holiday in the Park
Six Flags America
13710 Central Ave, Upper Marlboro
Prince George’s County
www.sixflags.com/america/special-events/holiday-in-the-park
Winter spectacular featuring lights, sights and sounds, holiday entertainment, seasonal treats, visits with Santa and popular theme park rides.
December TBA
Brookside Gardens Garden of Lights
Brookside Gardens
1800 Glenallan Ave, Wheaton
Montgomery County
www.montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/brookside-gardens/garden-of-lights
Step into a magical winter wonderland illuminated with more than one million dazzling colorful lights shaped into hand-crafted, original art forms of flowers, animals and other natural elements.
Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade
Annapolis Harbor and Spa Creek above the Spa Creek Bridge
Eastport, Anne Arundel County
www.eastportyc.org/lights-parade
Magic happens on the water of the Annapolis Harbor as boats suddenly appear out of the cold winter night illuminated with thousands of colored lights and crewed by jolly revelers. Families and friends gather at their favorite viewing spots along the waterfront to see this yearly spectacle and to celebrate the holiday season together. The Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade is one of Annapolis’ signature events and we invite you to join us as a participant.
Military Bowl
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium
550 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis
Anne Arundel County
www.visitannapolis.org/events/annual/military-bowl
The Military Bowl® presented by Northrop Grumman will match a team from the American Atlantic Conference (AAC) against a team from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
December 5
Antietam National Battlefield Memorial Illumination
Antietam National Battlefield
Entrance off Rt 34, Sharpsburg
Washington County
More than 23,000 candles on the battlefield representing casualties from the bloodiest single-day battle in American history.
December 7–8
Charles County Holiday Trail
Historical sites and arts venues
Countywide, Charles County
www.charlescountymd.gov/calendar/charles-county-holiday-trail-6
Charles County’s holiday tradition continues with the Annual Charles County Holiday Trail. This event features Charles County’s leading historical sites and art venues. Step back in time for a historical Christmas, listen to carolers in period appropriate clothing, purchase goods from various local vendors or just enjoy local art. Dates and times vary by the site.
December 11–13
Christmas in St. Michaels
Citywide
Throughout town, St. Michaels
Talbot County
https://christmasinstmichaels.org
A three-day holiday gala featuring a hometown parade, crafts marketplace, tour of homes and visits with Santa.
Kris Kringle Market
Charles County Fairgrounds
8440 Fairgrounds Rd, La Plata
Charles County
www.charlescountyfair.com/kriskringle
Modeled after the famous Christmas markets in Germany, this three-day event at the fairgrounds offers festive lights and music, fresh greens, holiday food, handmade crafts from local artists and crafters, activities for children, shopping and much more.
December 26
Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship
Downtown Frederick
19 E Church St, Frederick, Frederick County
www.visitfrederick.org/events/annualevents/historic-houses-of-worship
This special open house celebrates Frederick’s tradition of religious diversity, local history and the holiday season. This is Frederick’s most popular church tour and is a great opportunity to step inside some of its most beautiful buildings.
December 26–31
Governor’s Challenge
Wicomico Youth & Civic Center
500 Glen Ave, Salisbury, Wicomico County
The Governor’s Challenge basketball tournament has grown to be the largest holiday basketball tournament in the country. In its 40th year, the Governor’s Challenge will bring 120 teams to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center and surrounding high schools in Salisbury in December 2020.
December 31
Krumpe’s Donut Drop
Public Square Downtown Hagerstown
10 Public Square, Hagerstown
Washington County
http://krumpesdonuts.com/event/krumpes-donut-drop
Ring in the New Year at 7PM (it’s midnight somewhere!). Get free hot chocolate, a world-famous Krumpe’s donut, and definitely bring the kids—there is even a play area for them!
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