The Maryland Seafood Festival is a celebrated event held annually at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis, Maryland. With a tradition dating back to 1966, the festival continues to be a significant draw for seafood enthusiasts and families from across the East Coast. The event promises an array of activities, culinary delights, and entertainment options that cater to all ages.
Seafood Delights and Competitions
The festival is renowned for its diverse seafood offerings and competitive events. Highlights include the Capital Crab Soup Cook-off, which is a major attraction, allowing attendees to sample a variety of crab soups. Additionally, there are crab cake eating contests, crab picking competitions, and oyster shucking contests. According to the organizers, the event will also feature a Beer and Oyster Tasting Tent with over 25 varieties of beer and fresh local oysters.
Entertainment and Interactive Activities
The festival boasts a vibrant atmosphere with live music performances scheduled throughout the event. Attendees can enjoy music at the Main Stage, with performances spread across both days. Other activities include beach soccer and paddle-boarding, adding to the outdoor fun. For families, an interactive kids’ zone will be available, featuring inflatable bounce houses and other engaging activities.
Local Vendors and Exhibits
The Maryland Seafood Festival hosts numerous seafood vendors, including well-known names like Jimmy’s Famous Seafood and Sherri’s Crab Cakes. In addition to seafood, visitors can explore a range of food vendors offering diverse options such as lobster rolls and BBQ. The festival also includes a craft fair, where local artists and merchants showcase unique creations.
Festival Schedule
The Maryland Seafood Festival 2024 kicks off on Saturday, September 14, with gates opening at 11 am. The day's highlights include the Crab Soup Cook-off from 11:30 am until 2:30 pm, or until the soup runs out, followed by the Crab Cake Eating Contest at 2:30 pm. Live music performances will entertain attendees throughout the day on the main stage. The Beer & Oyster Tasting Tent will be open from 3 pm to 7 pm. On Sunday, September 15, the festival continues with similar activities, including the Oyster Shucking Contest at 4:30 pm and more live music. Both days conclude with the festival closing at 7 pm, encouraging attendees to drive safely home.
Ticket Prices and Parking
Tickets for the Maryland Seafood Festival vary in price. General admission tickets are $15 if purchased in advance and $20 on the day of the event. Children 12 and under can attend for free. The Crab Soup Cook-off tickets are $15, with limited availability, so early purchase is recommended. The Naptown Seafood Sampler, which includes eight samples from local restaurants and a drink, is available for $25. Pre-ordering is advised for items like steamed crabs, priced at $40 for a half dozen. As the organizers note, pets are not allowed at the event.
Location and Infrastructure
Sandy Point State Park, located in Annapolis, MD, is a picturesque venue for the festival. The park offers beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay and ample space for various festival activities. Annapolis, the nearest city, is a charming town known for its maritime heritage and historic district, providing additional attractions for festival-goers to explore. Nearby, visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of the park, including its beaches and hiking trails.
