Maryland USA

Baltimore Festivals 2025

2024-12-12T06:49:00.000-08:00

Baltimore hosts several of Maryland's most popular festivals. The city is home to a number of venues, parks, and other facilities where enthusiasts can enjoy festivals.

Maryland officials recently announced the 2025 dates for Artscape, AFRAM, the Baltimore Caribbean Festival, and Charm City Live.

“Starting in May, we will have not just one, but four spectacular events coming to Baltimore. Over the years Artscape, AFRAM, the Baltimore Caribbean Festival, and Charm City Live have become more than just fun for the whole family,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott.

2025 Baltimore Festival dates:

Artscape will take place Memorial Day Weekend on Saturday, May 24, and Sunday, May 25, 2025.

AFRAM will occur around the Juneteenth holiday on Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, 2025.

The Baltimore Caribbean Festival will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, and Sunday, July 13, 2025.

Charm City Live will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025.

More Information

Effective January 1, 2025, the City of Baltimore will be updating its public-facing special events calendar to help ease collaboration and planning efforts for events across Baltimore.

The updated calendar will include Non-Permit Dates so that external partners and the public can plan events around the availability of City services.

Maryland Catfish Trail

2024-05-11T15:03:00.000-07:00

Blue Catfish

The Maryland Office of Tourism Development recently announced the new Maryland Catfish Trail, a resource for conquering the invasive species challenge in the state's waterways.

Anglers can explore handpicked locations, including tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay, the Potomac River, Upper Bay, and Sassafras Rivers.

The Catfish Trail includes public access points, charters, and guides, and other aids to help anglers successfully target and catch invasive blue catfish.

The site also connects enthusiasts to restaurants and chefs statewide who are serving up responsibly sourced blue catfish cuisine. Restaurants and chefs across Maryland are creating inventive dishes featuring local blue catfish.

Anglers will find more about catching the invasive blue catfish on the Maryland DNR website, and the Fish and Hunt Maryland website.

2024 Maryland First Day Hikes

2023-12-12T10:25:00.000-08:00

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently released an invitation to the public to participate in the 2024 Maryland First Day Hike.

Maryland State Parks will be offering First Weekend hike opportunities across the state from December 31, 2023 – January 2, 2024.

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks that encourages all 50 states to offer outdoor hiking opportunities to kick off the year.

For 2024, Maryland State Parks will offer more than 60 hikes across 40 state parks. As in previous years, there are two types of hikes available:

Ranger-led hikes: These hikes are accompanied and include interpretation by one or more Park Rangers, have specific start times, and often require advance registration.

Self-guided hikes: These hikes will be available throughout the weekend, on well marked trails. Park staff and volunteers may be available to help hikers get started but will not join them on the trail.

With nearly 50 ranger-led hikes and 15 self-guided hike options through the weekend, there is a wide variety of outdoor adventures and experiences for every level of hiker and walker throughout Maryland.

2024 First Day Hike Highlights:

In Western Maryland, hikers can join a ranger-led First Day “Fitness Hike” at Rocky Gap State Park, for those looking to break a sweat to kick off the New Year, a ranger-led guided “First Day Hike through History” at South Mountain Battlefield State Park, and a “Little Naturalist First Day Hike”, an easy 1-mile hike for children and their families, at New Germany State Park.

In Central Maryland, the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail will offer bicyclists a guided “First Day Bike” ride; hikers have a choice of either an early morning First Day Sunrise Hike or First Day Sunset Hike at North Point State Park, and a “Last Day Hike” or “Kids Countdown Hike” on New Year’s Eve at Patapsco Valley State Park.

In Southern Maryland, hikers can bring their four-legged friends on a “Trails and Tails” ranger-led First Day Hike at Calvert Cliffs State Park, join the guided “Where One Goes Pleasantly” First Day Hike along Mattawoman Creek at Smallwood State Park; or kick off the year with a “First Day the Rosaryville Way” hike at Rosaryville State Park.

On Maryland’s Eastern Shore, hikers can bring their binoculars for a guided “First Day Bird Walk” or bring their own horse for a “New Year’s Day Ride” at Tuckahoe State Park, a “First Sunset Hike” at Janes Island State Park, a “First Day Family Hike” along the beach at Assateague State Park. “I Hiked” stickers will be available at select locations while supplies last.

In addition to scheduled hikes, all Maryland’s state parks, state forests, and wildlife management areas will be open to all. Hikers should check the DNR website for information about public lands near them.

After taking part in a First Day Hike or visiting a state park, hikers are asked to complete an online survey to track their hikes and how many miles they covered.

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

**2024 UPDATE**

A total of 4,248 people hiked about 10,691 miles during First Day Hikes in 40 different Maryland state parks on New Year’s weekend, according to Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Between Dec. 31, 2023 and Jan. 1, 2024, park rangers led 47 scheduled hikes and other programs with an additional 15 self-guided opportunities that were available on state public lands across Maryland.

Related Information

Things To Do in Maryland

Economic Impacts of Maryland State Parks

Places To Visit in Baltimore Maryland

2022-06-22T12:11:00.002-07:00

Downtown Baltimore

Baltimore, Maryland is a historic port city with a vibrant culture and lots of places to see. Attractions and experiences around Baltimore include museums, tall ships and other vessels, boat cruises, art exhibits, food and drink, festivals, and much more.

Educational and historical exhibits can be found at the Baltimore Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, World Trade Center of Baltimore, Fort McHenry, Maryland Science Center, National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History, B&O Railroad Museum, tall ships, and others.

Named after Lord Baltimore in the Irish House of Lords, the city has a flourishing population of more than 650,000. Spanning over an area of 80.8 square miles, the city is a perfect mixture of the old with the new.

Many of the ethnic neighborhoods have been restored into modern shopping and dining locales but they still retain the old character.

Inner Harbor

Baltimore Inner Harbor

Baltimore's world-renowned Inner Harbor is surrounded by historic neighborhoods where you will find city living at its best with unique shops and restaurants for every style and taste.

Baltimore enjoys a vibrant arts scene and embraces its history and influence on American culture.

At the top of the list of places to visit is the Inner harbor. Views of the waterfront are informative and inspiring.

The docks and streets surrounding the inner harbor include a mix of homes, hotels, museums, restaurants, shops, promenade, public spaces, and entertainment venues.

The Inner harbor is home to the Harborplace, an entertainment center and the National Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world. Port Discovery Children's Museum, and the World Trade Center of Baltimore are also located around the basin.

Baltimore Tall Ships

Pride of Baltimore II

The Pride of Baltimore II is one of America's most famous tall ships. The ship was commissioned in 1988 as a sailing memorial to her immediate predecessor.

The original Pride of Baltimore sank during a violent storm off Puerto Rico in 1986, taking her captain and three crew members down with her.

Both ships were built as reproductions of 1812-era topsail schooners. The Pride of Baltimore II has sailed nearly 200,000 miles, making port in 40 countries around the world.

Lifestyle

Baltimore Harbor Connector

Baltimore does not experience the extremes of weather change that occur in other parts of USA. The weather is relatively mild and the best time to be here is from April to November.

The city is well connected by road, air, and sea. Washington DC is located about one hour south on Route 95. Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI) is only a half-hour drive south of downtown.

Moving inside the city is easy and loads of options like light rail system are available. The Harbor Connector water taxi boats are a unique and interesting option for exploring the harbor area. It is a nice way to get around during the warmer months, and offers unique views of the Baltimore skyline.

Baltimore is also known as "Charm City" and other nicknames.

Baltimore Seafood

Baltimore is famous for its outstanding seafood. From the nearby Chesapeake Bay come blue crabs, oysters, striped bass, and other delicacies.

Other Maryland seafood comes the Atlantic coast, including sea scallops, lobsters, sea bass, and other fish.

A few of the most popular dishes include steamed crabs, crabcakes, oysters on the half shell, single fried oysters, fish and chips, and others.

Landmarks

Baltimore is home to scores of iconic landmarks. The city is known for its architecture and historic buildings. A few examples of unique and unusual landmarks include the Curtis Creek Ship Graveyard, Hanover Street Bridge, and many others.

Baltimore Places to Visit - Attractions

Baltimore Inner Harbor (baltimore.org)

Orioles Baseball (baltimore.orioles.mlb.com)

Ravens Football (www.baltimoreravens.com)

Merriweather Post Pavilion (www.merriweathermusic.com)

National Aquarium (www.aqua.org)

Baltimore Zoo (www.marylandzoo.org)

B&O Railroad Museum (www.borail.org)

Maryland Science Center (www.mdsci.org)

Maryland Saltwater Fishing

2022-06-18T12:33:00.000-07:00

This article provides saltwater fishing techniques, species overviews, and other information related to fishing in the Maryland portion of the Chesapeake Bay, tidal rivers, inshore and offshore fishing from Ocean City and Maryland's coastal bays.

Maryland has a wide variety of saltwater fishing. From striped bass fishing on the Susquehanna Flats, down to the state line in the Chesapeake Bay, and From Fenwick Island to Virginia along the coast.

Chesapeake Bay fishing varies widely lots of different environments. Anglers in the bay can fish with bait, artificial lures, employ fly fishing or other techniques.

Over on the ocean side there is surf fishing, jetty fishing, inshore fishing for flounder, trout, bluefish, and others. The open ocean offers anglers a chance to try wreck fishing, offshore fishing, deep dropping, and other activities.

Maryland Flounder Fishing

Flounder

Maryland is well known for its flounder fishing opportunities. Much of the fishing occurs in coastal bays and inshore ocean waters. A separate fishery occurs in the Chesapeake Bay.

Many anglers target flounder and some fish exclusively for these delicious fish. Some anglers target flounder only in certain seasons while others choose to fish the entire season. Fishing varies with season, weather, tides, location and water quality.

Flounder fishing is a spring ritual for many anglers. Locals and visitors alike begin the fishing season each year by drifting the bays and creeks for flounder. The first flounder may arrive along the coast in April, but the main spring run usually peaks in May.

Several key factors affect spring flounder fishing. Water temperature seems to play a critical role in the spring. A rule of thumb is to find water temperature above 55 degrees although fish are sometimes caught in cooler water. Tides and currents are also big factors and every serious angler has their preferred state of tide for a given location.

Flounder fishing changes as the water warms. The movements of flounder decrease and anglers settle into a summer pattern, enjoying the warm days on the bay.

Visiting local tackle shops are an excellent way to get up to date information on local fishing. Tackle shops have flounder fishing rigs, tackle, bait and up to date reports. In addition, some shops rent boats, book fishing charters, guided trips, nature cruises or other adventures.

In mid-summer, flounder are sometimes caught on the many wrecks, shoals and artificial reefs along the coast. Fishing is sporadic but catches can be good when flounder are located. The Artificial reefs off the coast of Maryland yield some excellent catches of flounder.

In summer, flounder are also caught by anglers fishing the surf. This fishery requires only a rod, rod holder and basic tackle, no boat is needed!

Maryland Offshore Fishing

Ocean City Maryland is world famous for offshore fishing. Private boats and fishing charters target a variety of tuna, dolphin (mahi mahi), wahoo, billfish, and other species.

The city proclaims itself the "white marlin capital of the world" and hosts one of the nation's top marlin fishing tournaments. To serve fishermen, the harbors are home to hundreds of fishing charter boats.

In the summer months, fishing can be excellent. Inshore fishing spots include the Jackspot, Hot Dog, Parking Lot, and other hot spots as well as deep sea structure including the Wilmington, Baltimore, Poor Man's, Washington, and Norfolk Canyons. These hotspots vary from around 25 to over 100 nautical miles from port.

Anglers may target bluefin tuna and bluefish along the 20 fathom line in the early season. Yellowfin tuna are sought in deeper water for the most part, often being caught in water from 30 to 100 fathoms. In addition to bluefin and yellowfin tuna, anglers catch bigeye, skipjack and longfin albacore tuna, dolphin fish, wahoo, billfish, and sharks.

Of interest to many anglers are the trips that reach the offshore canyons. Just before reaching the canyon walls are slopes that are often very productive areas. Near the canyon walls, the bottom becomes steeper and rockier. Fish congregate along the drop offs to catch food that is caught in the hard running current.

Along the edges are lobster traps which are marked by orange buoys or "lobster balls". The buoys attract dolphin fish which in turn attract the larger marlin, swordfish and sharks which feed on them heavily. A trip by a buoy can be uneventful, or one or more lines might be attacked by mahi mahi, tuna, marlin, or other fish.

In the deepwater canyons and surrounding areas, anglers also bottom fish for species such as tilefish, sea bass, hake, and other bottom dwellers. The world record golden tilefish was caught in 2007 off the coast of Maryland. The fish weighed 59 pounds, 3 ounces.

Late August and September often feature the best fishing with anglers seeing larger numbers of tuna as well as an influx of wahoo and bull dolphin. Offshore fishing continues into October, when windy weather and falling water temperatures make fishing less productive.

Maryland Inshore Saltwater Fish

Striped Bass - Rockfish

Striped Bass

The striped bass is the state fish of Maryland and the state's most popular inshore saltwater fish. Also known as rockfish or striper, the striped bass is a very hardy fish, and even takes to life in freshwater. Striped bass are stocked in several Maryland lakes.

Rigs and baits for striped bass vary with location and season. Anglers fish live baits such as spot and eels or troll, jig, cast artificial lures and fly fish for striped bass around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and other spots. The action is nearly year round with populations of local fish as well as migrating schools of rockfish.

Striped bass vary from around 18 inches to over monster fish of 50 inches or more. During the cooler months anglers come to Maryland from all over to enjoy some of the best striped bass fishing in the world.

Black Sea Bass

Black sea bass are among the most popular fish caught off the Maryland coast. Anglers fish year round for this exceptionally delicious fish, although the fish migrate to deeper water in winter. Peak fishing is usually May and early June and again in the fall.

In the spring, ocean wrecks, reefs, and rough bottom usually hold the most fish. Bigger fish can sometimes be enticed by using larger baits. Favorite rigs for bigger fish include single hook rigs with a whole squid for bait, large bucktail jigs with squid strips and large metal jigs. The larger baits often catch fish with a higher average weight.

Black sea bass are excellent cooked. The meat is firm, white and delicious and can be fried, grilled, baked or broiled.

Tautog

Tautog live in structure such as rocky bottoms, wrecks and reefs. Their preference for structure makes them an ideal inshore species when fishing in the lower Chesapeake Bay and along the coast.

Tackle and techniques are simple and no prior experience is needed to catch these tasty fish. They vary in size from about 12 inches to perhaps 12 lbs or more. They are very tough fighters and excellent table fare.

Atlantic Croaker

Atlantic croaker are popular saltwater fish caught in the Chesapeake and along the coast of Maryland. Croaker or "hardhead" are named because of the "croaking" noise they make. Croakers fight hard and prolific feeders. They are caught on baits such as squid, crabs, clams or bloodworms. Croakers are often caught in large numbers.

Spot

Spot occur in the Chesapeake Bay and along estuaries and coastal waters. Spot are fun to catch and a great fish for anglers of all ages. Anglers seek spot both as a baitfish and because of their excellent value as a seafood delicacy.

Spot are caught using standard 2 hook rigs, using small hooks and small pieces of bait. Popular baits include bloodworms, shrimp, clam and synthetic bloodworm type baits. Spot may also be caught with small jigs or Sabiki rigs.

Kingfish

The southern kingfish, or whiting, is a member of the croaker family. Kingfish have an elongated body and a characteristic single chin barbel. Coloration varies somewhat with habitat, but it is generally gray to brown above with silver undersides and 6-8 broad lateral bars.

Kingfish are an excellent food fish and are sought after by bottom fishermen and surf anglers. These fish are found on sandy bottoms, entering inshore areas in summer.

Red Drum

Red drum can be caught in a number of ways. A popular technique for catching red drum along the Maryland coast is to bottom fish with cut spot, menhaden, peeler crab or other baits. Anglers use a fish finder or other rig and sometimes fish into the evening for large bull red drum.

A second fishery along the coast and the Chesapeake Bay exists for "puppy drum" which are smaller red drum. These fish are exciting to catch, usually by casting artificial lures around structure or by fishing baits in shallow water areas.

Bluefish

Bluefish are commonly caught in Maryland. They are sometimes found in large schools off the coast where they are known for their sharp teeth and ability to destroy even the strongest tackle. Anglers troll, jig, cast artificial lures, and fly fish for bluefish. The fish have dark, oily meat but are excellent smoked.

Related Information

Ocean City Maryland Saltwater Fishing

What Is A Smith Island Cake?

2021-07-14T03:26:00.004-07:00

The Smith Island Cake is one of Maryland's most unique desserts. Once found only on Smith Island and nearby mainland communities, this unusual cake is available throughout the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

No one is sure when the Smith Island women started baking cakes composed of several pancake-thin layers that are iced with chocolate or other types of icing.

Historians claim the cakes originally had as few as four layers although a modern day Smith Island cake usually has more layers. A perfect Smith Island cake today is often considered to have 10 layers and stand about three inches high.

Commercially produced Smith Island cakes come in a wide range of flavors. Home made versions often fetch premium prices at bake sales and fundraiser auctions.

Maryland Welcome to Boating Clinics

2021-04-25T03:12:00.001-07:00

The Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are organizing two "Welcome to Boating" Clinics in cooperation with the BoatUS Foundation. The clinics will be held May 4 and 6 from 4-7 p.m. at Sandy Point State Park near Annapolis MD.

Recreational boaters and other enthusiasts are invited to join industry professionals to learn and/or refresh boating skills.

The Chesapeake Bay is known for its boats and other pleasure craft. There are over 200,000 registered boats and 12,550 Personal Watercraft (PWC) registered in Maryland.

2021 Maryland First Day Hikes

2020-12-23T16:13:00.003-08:00

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently released an invitation to the public to try a First Day Hike in Maryland.

First Day hikes are held annually in U.S. state parks to welcome the New Year.

This year, the Maryland Park Service will offer self-guided hike opportunities across the state from January 1-3, 2021. Trails will be open in Maryland state parks, state forests, and wildlife management areas.

This year, due to the pandemic and physical distancing guidance, hikes will be self-guided and park staff will not be leading the hikes.

First Day hikes in Maryland provide a variety of outdoor adventures and experiences for every level of hiker and walker.

Among those planning a hike will be Secretary Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio and Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford, continuing his commitment to visiting all Maryland state parks and other public lands by the time he leaves office. Lt. Governor Rutherford and the secretary kicked off 2020 with a hike at Patuxent River State Park.

“First Day Hikes are a wonderful tradition; they start the year off on the right foot with fresh air, exercise, and the appreciation and enjoyment of Maryland’s beautiful state parks and public lands,” said Lt. Governor Rutherford. “With all the challenges of the past year, participating in a socially-distant, self-guided First Day Hike and enjoying quality time outdoors is the perfect way to welcome 2021.”

On New Year’s Day 2020, a record 5,000 hikers logged more than 10,000 miles on trails in parks and public lands all across Maryland.

Maryland DNR urges hikers to follow Maryland State Parks guidelines for outdoor exercise and recreation to slow the spread of COVID-19, including keeping a 6-foot distance from anyone outside their household and wearing a face covering when in close proximity to others and when indoors. DNR states that anyone who is sick or has been sick over the past two weeks should stay home to recuperate.

After completing a 2021 First Day hike, hikers are asked to complete an online survey to track their hikes and how many miles they covered.

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide event sponsored by America’s State Parks.

UPDATE:

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources estimates that 16,237 visitors took part in First Day Hikes in Maryland State Parks during the three-day period from January 1-3, 2021.

Because there were no scheduled, staff-led hikes this year, State Parks were not able to calculate total miles hiked. A new DNR online survey indicated that 279 people voluntarily logged 966.5 miles.

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Related Information

Things To Do in Maryland

Economic Impacts of Maryland State Parks

Things To Do on the Eastern Shore of Maryland

2019-11-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

In every season, there are plenty of things to do on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Activities include outdoor events, tent shows, arts and crafts expos, and many more.

A trip to Ocean City is one of the most popular things to do on the Eastern Shore.

This family-oriented beach resort is located within a few hours of Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C., and other cities of the Mid Atlantic region.

Ocean City is known for its beaches, amusements, fishing, food, and other attractions.Ocean City hosts a wide range of annual events including Springfest, Sunfest, Bike Week, Winterfest of Lights, and many others.

Each Winter, the East Coast Commercial Fishermen's and Aquaculture Trade Expo is held in Ocean City. The event is the largest commercial fishing - aquaculture trade show in the Mid Atlantic region.

Held annually in April, the World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival attracts carvers and visitors from across the world. The event includes judging, seminars, demonstrations, family activities, auctions, and exhibits of artisans and supplies.

Just a few miles south is Assateague Island. The island is known for its natural beauty, including beaches, wild ponies, waterfowl, and other scenes.

A bridge from the mainland provides access to Assateague Island State Park and/or Assateague Island National Seashore. The state park has beach access, a boat launching facility, pier, and other assets. The larger national park also has beach access, camping, RV parking, hiking trails, and more.

Chestertown is a favorite stop for boaters and nautical history enthusiasts. Held each fall, the annual Chestertown Downrigging Weekend is the town's biggest attraction. Featuring tall ships and other classic boats of all sizes, the event draws mariners from across the region.

In Easton, a multi-day waterfowl festival attracts carvers, collectors, art lovers, and waterfowl enthusiasts. The festival is held each year in November.

Another popular destination for day trips or weekend getaways is St. Michaels. Located on the Miles River, this historic waterfront town is home to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Micheals Museum, and scores of historic homes.

Nearby, the Oxford - Bellevue Ferry offers a scenic ride between two historic waterfront communities.

A few miles south, near Cambridge, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is known for its eagles, ospreys, waterfowl, and more. The refuge is home to three paddling trails totaling over 20 miles.

During winter, the Cambridge waterfront becomes a prime location for viewing wild ducks, geese, and other birds.

On Deal Island, skipjack sailboat races are a local tradition. Held annually over Labor Day weekend, the race showcases wooden skipjack sailboats from around the Chesapeake Bay. Over the weekend, participants share information, network, and learn about these historic sailing vessels. In addition to the skipjack race there is a large craft show, yard sales, local foods, and other side events.

Another popular destination for boaters, fishermen, and seafood lovers is Crisfield, Maryland. This small waterfront town is home to the National Hard Crab Derby, Boat Docking Contest, and other events.

Also at Crisfield, visitors can explore the town dock and catch a boat to nearby Smith Island or Tangier Island.

In Snow Hill, the annual Blessing of the Combines is one of the state's most popular agri-tourism events.

Not be overlooked are the many opportunities that are available in state and county parks on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Campers and day trip explorers can choose from dozens of interesting parks and other destinations.

Near Hillsboro, Tuckahoe State Park is a great location for camping, fishing, paddlesports, hiking, horseback riding, and other activities. Below the dam, hikers and horseback riders will find stunning views of Tuckahoe Creek and surrounding hardwood forests.

Along the upper Choptank River, Martinek State Park provides camping and water access. Just down the road is Adkins Arboretum where miles of trails wind through trees, wildflowers, and other native plants.

Located on the lower Choptank River in Cambridge is Bill Burton Fishing Pier State Park. The property includes piers that extend from both banks of the river, running parallel to Rt. 50. Popular activities on the piers include walking, crabbing, fishing, and birdwatching.

Things To Do (listed by season)

Winter

waterfowl watching, hunting
Ocean City Winterfest of Lights
Christmas parades
East Coast Commercial Fishermen's and Aquaculture Trade Expo

Spring

Ward World Championship Wildfowl Carving Competition and Art Festival
Ocean City Springfest
fresh strawberries

Summer

Fourth of July Fireworks Displays
National Hard Crab Derby
Blessing of the Combines
boat docking contests
beach excursions
fishing
Deal Island Skipjack Race

Fall

Ocean City Sunfest, Bike Week
Chestertown Downrigging Weekend
Easton Waterfowl Festival

Related Information

Things To Do in Ocean City MD

St. Michaels

Deal Island Skipjack Races

Things To Do in Maryland

Maryland Lakes Protection and Restoration Fund Projects

2019-05-19T16:28:00.000-07:00

crappie

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will undertake restoration projects at lakes throughout Maryland under the new State Lakes Protection and Restoration Fund, which provides $1 million for each of the next three years to improve state-owned lakes.

Governor Hogan approved the total $3 million fund in May 2018. DNR was tasked with determining priorities and a work plan for the funding.

Five public open houses were held around the state in the fall of 2018 to solicit project ideas, and the department’s lake managers also helped identify the most pressing needs to protect and restore the water bodies under their care.

Each of the lakes will benefit from at least one project. Deep Creek Lake, the largest state-owned lake and the economic driver for Garrett County, will receive approximately $420,000 divided between three projects. At least 41 projects will be funded statewide.

The funds will be used to remove sediment, treat contaminated sediment, prevent the spread of invasive species, improve ecological and recreational value, and any other action the department deems necessary.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Maryland Books - Book Reviews

2018-11-14T03:21:00.000-08:00

Books about or related to Maryland USA can be found online or in almost any local bookstore in the state. Subjects include history, ghost stories, nautical, seafood, nature, and many more.

Books related to the Chesapeake Bay are always popular among Marylanders. Books about the estuary explore history, water-based recreation, seafood, commercial fishing, boating, and other subjects.

Note: This article contains Amazon or other affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

At Chesapeake-bay.org, readers will find Chesapeake Bay Book Reviews as well as an online store featuring Chesapeake Bay books.

Another website offers a review of The Chesapeake Watershed: A Sense of Place and a Call to Action

For those interested in Charm City (Baltimore), another website showcases books about Baltimore.

For readers that enjoy fishing stories,Wet and Hungry: An Atlantic Fisherman's Life is worth looking into.

Other sources of information about Maryland themed books are numerous. Online audiences will find information about relevant books at sites such as goodreads.com

Another good way to find books about Maryland is to attend local events such as the Baltimore Book festival.

For old and used book enthusiasts, there are thrift shops, flea markets, yard sales, specialty book stores and other sources.

2018 Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival

2018-02-05T16:44:00.000-08:00

The Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival will be held on May 19th and 20th, 2018 at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis, MD.

This year's performers include: Brian Setzer's Rockabilly Riot, Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, Delbert McClinton, Keb' Mo', Doyle Bramhall II, Shemekia Copeland, Mike Zito, Heather Gillis, Mr. Sipp, Brandon Taz Niederauer, Jerron "Blind Boy" Paxton, Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, and others.

Chesapeake Bay Events is pleased to announce that Deanna Bogart will travel from her home on the west coast to appear at the 20th Anniversary of the Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival (CBBF).

Deanna is an award winning, multi-instrumentalist, bandleader, singer, songwriter, producer, pianist and sax player. She combines the best of Boogie-Woogie, contemporary Blues, Country and Jazz into a blend that she calls "blusion".

She has 22 WAMMIES (Washington Area Music Awards) and 3 BMA Awards for Horn Instrumentalist of the Year.

She has played for US Troops in Iraq, Kuwait and Egypt.

Deanna appeared at the very first festival in 1998 in the pouring rain.

Deanna is scheduled to perform with a full horn section on Sunday, May 20th, 2018.

Manatee Found Dead In Maryland

2016-11-30T13:04:00.000-08:00

Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently reported that a manatee was found dead near Baltimore, Maryland. DNR located the dead manatee after receiving a call from a citizen.

The deceased manatee was subsequently recovered and examined by an interagency team of biologists and veterinarians at the Smithsonian Institution.

This was only the third case of a deceased manatee in Maryland, according to DNR.

The first live Maryland manatee was documented in 1994 along the Upper Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay. “Chessie” was captured in Queenstown and taken to Florida for release a few days later.

Since that time, manatees have been reported throughout the Chesapeake Bay each summer. Approximately 6,000 manatees are thought to exist in the U.S

DNR reminds state residents to report any sightings of uncommon marine mammals and wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, sea turtles or whales. The public can report sightings and strandings anytime to 800-628-9944.

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival 2016

2016-03-17T04:17:00.000-07:00

The 2016 Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival will be held on Saturday and Sunday May 21 and 22 at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis. The annual two day festival helps raise money for local charities.

Guitarist Joe Bonamassa will headline the festival. Bonamassa began his career opening for B.B. King in 1989, when he was only 12 years old.

The Robert Cray Band will close on Saturday. This will be Robert Cray's second appearance at CBBF, his first being in 2000.

2016 Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival Bands - Musicians - Artists

Saturday:

Robert Cray Band
John Mayall
The Mavericks
Sonny Landreth
Mud Morganfield
Danielle Nicole
The Chesapeake Bay Dixie Band featuring Patty Reese with the Dixie Power Trio and New Line Brass Band

Sunday:

Joe Bonamassa
Canned Heat
Tab Benoit
Heritage Blues Orchestra
Dana Fuchs
Ronnie Baker Brooks
Michael McHenry Tribe
For more information, visit www.bayblues.org.

MD Monarch Butterfly Conservation Grants

2015-12-15T02:22:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) recently awarded the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) $32,000 from the Northeast Monarch Grants to States to support butterfly conservation and habitat restoration projects.

A large portion of the grant will help the state identify and restore 10 acres of butterfly habitat with assistance from the nonprofit Monarch Watch and Maryland Conservation Job Corps volunteers.

The remaining funds will go to the Masonville Cove Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnership to restore a greenhouse in Baltimore that will be used to grow plants for butterfly gardens.

Maryland has begun planting habitat, including milkweed and other plants integral to the lifecycle of the monarch, on government land and properties.

DNR has also assisted in monarch butterfly tagging efforts within the migration corridor at places like Assateague and Deep Creek Lake state parks.

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

2015 Maryland Fall Turkey Season Totals

2015-12-05T09:09:00.000-08:00

Hunters reported taking 116 wild turkeys during Maryland's three-county fall turkey season. The one week season ended on Nov. 7. The harvest was 13 percent lower than 2014, when hunters harvested 134 birds.

Harvests by county:

Allegany County 36
Garrett 49
Washington 31

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Delmarva Fox Squirrel Recovered

2015-11-30T13:48:00.004-08:00

The Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel is no longer at risk of extinction, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).

USFWS will officially remove the squirrel from the list of Threatened and Endangered Wildlife under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in December 2015.

The species was one of the animals included on the first list of endangered species nearly a half century ago.

Larger than other squirrel species and generally not found in suburban or urban areas, the Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel ranged throughout the Delmarva Peninsula of Maryland, Delaware and Virginia before experiencing a sharp decline in the mid-20th century.

With its range reduced more than 90 percent, the squirrel was one of 78 species listed under the Endangered Species Preservation Act in 1967, the predecessor of the ESA enacted six years later.

Since listing, the squirrel’s range has increased from four to 10 counties, and a population of up to 20,000 squirrels now covers 28 percent of the Delmarva Peninsula, primarily in Maryland.

Efforts contributing to recovery include translocation of animals to establish new populations, closing of the targeted hunting season, growth and dispersal of the population, and protection of large forested areas for habitat.

Delmarva fox squirrels are common at Blackwater (Maryland), Chincoteague (Virginia), and Prime Hook (Delaware) national wildlife refuges.

Prior to its 2014 proposal to remove the squirrel from the endangered species list, FWS followed a rigorous and detailed process to assess the Delmarva fox squirrel’s extinction risk.

The agency’s 2012 five-year review analyzed the status of populations, habitat and threats, considered the delisting criteria from the 1993 recovery plan, and ultimately recommended to delist the species because it is no longer in danger of extinction. A post-delisting monitoring plan will ensure the squirrel remains secure from extinction.

source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Maryland Boat Parades 2015

2015-11-29T14:11:00.001-08:00

A variety of boat parades will be held around Maryland for the 2015 Christmas season. The following list includes events on the Eastern Shore and Western Shore:

Baltimore

The Baltimore Parade of Lighted Boats is scheduled to occur in the Northwest and Inner Harbors at Baltimore, MD on December 5, 2015, between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.The parade consists of 36 sail and power vessels of various lengths that will gather near Fells Point in the Northwest Harbor, proceed to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, and return to Fells Point.

A lighted boat parade is scheduled to occur in the Middle River on November 28, 2015, between 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. The parade consists of up to 50 sail and power vessels operating on the Middle River.

Annapolis

The Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade is scheduled to occur in Annapolis Harbor and Spa Creek on December 12, 2015, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event includes two separate boat parade routes.

Solomons Island

A holiday season lighted boat parade is scheduled to occur on the Patuxent River, Solomons Harbor, and Back Creek at Solomons, MD on December 5, 2015, from 6:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. The boat parade consists of 15 sail and power vessels operating on a designated route that includes Solomons Harbor, Back Creek and the Patuxent River, before returning to Solomons Harbor.

Salisbury

A lighted boat parade is scheduled to occur in the upper Wicomico River on November 28, 2015, between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. The parade consists of approximately 15 power vessels beginning at the Wicomico Yacht Club in Wicomico Creek and transiting the Wicomico River upriver to the Port of Salisbury, MD, before returning to Wicomico Creek.

source: U.S Coast Guard 5th District

Friends of Patuxent Wildlife Holiday Bazaar

2015-11-11T04:53:00.000-08:00

Friends of Patuxent Wildlife Holiday Bazaar
November 14, 2015
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Patuxent Research Refuge

The 2015 Patuxent Research Refuge Holiday Bazaar will include a variety of new and gently used collectibles, books, crafts, artwork, and other items. Food and bake goods will also be offered for sale at the event.

The Friends of Patuxent Wildlife Holiday Bazaar supports the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center and the Patuxent Research Refuge.

For more information, visit www.friendsofpatuxent.org.

My Healthy Home App

2015-10-28T10:14:00.001-07:00

The Green & Healthy Homes Initiative (GHHI) recently announced the release of My Healthy Home app.

The free mobile app teaches families how to identify hazards in the home that may make them sick. During a brief quiz, the app asks users to find signs of health threats like mold, pests, chipped paint or standing water.

The app helps families develop a custom roadmap to eliminate risks and offers helpful DIY tips for simple fixes. A family can also use the app to explore a broad range of the services and service providers that already exist in their communities.

Availability of the app was announced at a recent Baltimore event kicking off National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week hosted by GHHI and the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

The event was co-hosted by the Baltimore-based GHHI, the nation's largest organization focused on healthy housing, which now is operating in 25 cities.

The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene commended GHHI's app and what it can accomplish.

My Healthy Homes App is available for free nationwide. During the initial phase, the app will provide resources for residents of the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. area. Resources in the other GHHI-targeted cities will be available in stages over the coming months.

For more information, visit www.ghhi.org.

Maryland Fall Trout Season

2015-10-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently released roughly 3,500 rainbow trout in Western Maryland as part of its fall trout stocking program.

Fall stocking locations include popular fishing areas such as Bear Creek, Big Elk Creek, Blairs Valley Lake, Deer Creek, Great Seneca Creek, Greenbelt Lake, Gunpowder Falls, Lake Artemesia, Morgan Run, North Branch Potomac, Patapsco River, Town Creek, Tuckahoe Creek, and Wheatley Lake.

“When and where we stock is largely dependent on weather conditions, water flow and temperatures,” DNR Inland Fisheries Manager Tony Prochaska said. “If the weather cooperates, we will release about 25,000 trout by the end of October.”

Weekly trout stocking updates are available via the DNR website or by calling the Trout Hotline at 800-688-3467.

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Maryland Fall Foliage 2015

2015-10-02T16:10:00.001-07:00

Fall foliage has begun to appear across parts of Maryland, according to the Maryland Office of Tourism and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fall Foliage & Festival Hotline.

Some of the earliest displays of fall foliage can be found in western Maryland. Traditionally, foliage in Garrett County begins to turn around the end of September and peaks around mid-October.

Maryland's fall foliage hues usually vary from year to year, depending on Autumn temperatures, rainfall, storms, and other factors.

During the Fall season, trees release a chemical called phytochrome, which slows down chlorophyll production in preparation for winter dormancy. As the green chlorophyll recedes, foliage changes color.

The amount and acidity of tree sap also affects foliage colors. Strongly acidic sap leads to red and other brightly-colored foliage, while less acidic sap produces more yellows or softer tones.

Fall Foliage Colors

Yellows

Ash, White
Basswood
Beech
Birch, Rive
Birch, Sweet
Buckeye, Ohio
Coffeetree, Kentucky
Cottonwood, Eastern
Elder, Box
Elm, American
Hazel Nut
Hickory, Mockernut
Hickory, Pignut
Hickory, Shagbark
Hickory, Shellbark
Hophornbeam, Eastern
Locust, Black
Locust, Honey
Maple, Silver
Oak, Chestnut
Pecan
Redbud, Eastern
Shad Bush
Tuliptree
Walnut, Black
Walnut, White
Willow, Black

Reds - Pinks - Oranges

Dogwood
Gum, Black
Oak, Northern Red
Oak, Pin
Oak, Scarlet
Oak, Southern Red
Oak, Swamp Chestnut
Sourwood
Sumac

Browns

Oak, Bur
Oak, Post
Oak, Shingle
Oak, Swamp White

Maryland Oyster Season 2015-2016

2015-10-02T10:29:00.000-07:00

Maryland's 2015-2016 oyster season opened October 1st in Maryland. For the first month of the season, only hand tonging, patent tonging and diving are permitted.

Oyster harvesting is expected to increase when watermen begin power and sail dredging on Nov. 1. Maryland's oyster season runs from Oct. 1 through March 31.

Maryland’s watermen harvested a total of 393,588 bushels with a dockside value of $17.3 million in 2014-2015.

The 2014 Fall Oyster Survey indicated that the oyster population is continuing to hold steady.

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Hurricane Joaquin - October Noreaster

2015-10-01T07:56:00.001-07:00

The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting heavy rain during the first week of October for the State of Maryland.

Some areas in Maryland could receive 5 to 10 inches of total precipitation, which could produce flooding of rivers, streams, ponds, and low-lying areas, according to the agency.

The Hogan administration has asked State agencies, including the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), to make preparations for the incoming storms.

MEMA is recommending that residents take the following actions:

Clean storm drains and gutters on your house to prevent overflow and water buildup.

Don’t wait. Communicate. Know how to get in contact with your friends and family during any emergency.

Fuel up your automobile before any storm.

If you have a basement in your house, shelve household items and make sure any electronic equipment is not lying directly on the floor.

Check to see if you live or work in a flood prone area: http://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/floodProneZones.aspx

Listen to instructions from local officials and know the current forecast by following your local emergency management office, forecasters, and news stations.

In addition to rainfall associated with a noreaster, MEMA is also monitoring Hurricane Joaquin which could bring additional rain and wind.

source: Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)

Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary 30th Anniversary

2015-09-18T11:14:00.000-07:00

Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary 30th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Glendening Nature Preserve
1290 Wrighton Rd
Lothian, MD

On Saturday, October 3, 2015, the Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary (JBWS) will host an anniversary celebration and concert at the Glendening Nature Preserve (Plummer House).

The FREE anniversary celebration will feature a climbing wall, hayrides, live animals, touch-a-truck, kids’ zone, guided hikes, food, local vendors, gift bag giveaways, native milkweed planting, and more.

During the celebration, visitors will enjoy live music throughout the day from the Jug Bay Jug Band, Bridgette Michaels, Rockfish, and The Back Pages.