Spring Showcase: Made in Maryland Festival

04/09/2018| Emily Witty

Spring Showcase: Made in Maryland Festival

04/09/2018 | Emily Witty

From Chesapeake Bay seafood, to Smith Island Cake, to many of the home brews and wines crafted by the state's local breweries and wineries, it would seem impossible to be able to sample Maryland's vast food and drink options all in one day. But the Made in Maryland Festival is making it easy to sip on some Layton's Chance wine from Dorchester County while indulging in Baltimore's favorite crab cuisine from Jimmy's Famous Seafood, at one convenient location.

In its second year, the Made in Maryland Festival is building off the huge success of last year's debut, with even more vendors and entertainment for people of all ages to enjoy on Sunday, May 6, at Kurtz's Beach in Pasadena.

This completely Maryland-themed festival will feature artisans, crafters, live jousting, food vendors, local wineries and breweries, live music, and children's activities. The event supports The Chesapeake Bay Trust, a 501c(3) nonprofit grant-making organization dedicated to improving the watersheds of the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland Coastal Bays, and Youghiogheny River.

Event coordinator, Hayley Bowerman, said the scale of this year's event is directly a result of 2017's success.

"Last year's inaugural event was met with an overwhelming response. The number of attendees that showed up at the gate needing tickets on the day-of was more than double what we anticipated," Bowerman said. "We're most excited for our overall lineup of entertainment and activities this year. This is really an all-ages festival that offers something for everyone, whether you're planning to attend with small children, your significant other, or a group of friends."

From the entertainment headlined by local 80's tribute band The Reagan Years, to beverages from Baltimore-based Patapsco Distilling Company and Ocean City's own Hoop Tea, as well as local authors and artists, appearances by Natty Boh and the Baltimore Hon Hive, and a fresh plant market just in time for Mother's Day, every aspect of the festivals highlights its Maryland roots.

Even the Kurtz's Beach location is a Maryland staple that has been family-owned and operated in Anne Arundel County for nearly 85 years. Owner John Mason says the festival is a perfect way to celebrate that anniversary.

"This festival is kind of bringing everything together because we're a Maryland institution that has relied on the bay and its health as part of our business," said Mason. "We always wanted to do something to really celebrate the state. My family and I are simply stewards of this magical place among nature and we're honored to invite everyone here to see what Anne Arundel County has to offer."

Bowerman says this collaboration of Maryland-based businesses is what fuels this unique festival.

"Our ultimate goal is to create an event that perfectly incorporates all the things that 'Maryland' brings to mind," said Bowerman. "We already have a great combination of offerings and eventually we'd love to bring in all the businesses, brands, sporting teams, and more from all corners of our state."

"For now, our immediate goal is simply to create a fun atmosphere that celebrates all the great aspects of our state, while also promoting The Chesapeake Bay Trust."

For more information and to purchase tickets visit madeinmarylandfest.com.

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