Maryland is a happening place and there are many local festivals and fairs every month of the year. Handicrafts are a popular attraction, the biggest being Sunfest in Ocean City, which showcases the best of the best in the fall. Maryland holidays also include U.S. events like Halloween, New Year's and Independence Day.
Capital Jazz Festival
Taking place in June every year, Capital Jazz is a music lover’s dream. Big names come together in Columbia to showcase the best of jazz along with food stalls, craft shops, workshops and shows.
Independence Day Celebrations
Independence Day on July 4 is big throughout the US, but especially impressive in Annapolis. There is a parade and a concert at the docks topped off with an impressive fireworks display over the Annapolis Harbor.
Assateague Horse Round-up
Every year on the last Wednesday of July, the horse herd from Virginia is rounded up and the foals sold at auction after the horses swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island. Visitors are welcome and the proceeds go to the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Department in Maryland, which owns and manages the herd.
Maryland Renaissance Festival
This festival has been taking place for almost 40 years and is like traveling back in time to the Renaissance era. Costumed shows and activities are fun for the whole family including jousting. The event runs from the end of August until mid-October.
Prince George’s County Fair
In September every year, a traditional county fair takes place in Upper Marlboro (Princes George’s County) in Maryland. Showcasing live animals, food, music, and family friendly activities, both young and old alike can enjoy this wonderfully event.
Germantown Oktoberfest
You don’t have to travel to Germany to enjoy Oktoberfest, just head to Germantown in Montgomery County. The county’s top annual event on October 1, visitors can enjoy food, drink, and music at the Biergarten, as well as lots of activities for children. Each day ends with a fireworks display.
National Canoe & Kayak Championships
Deep Creek Lake (McHenry) in Maryland is home to a world-class, manmade kayak and whitewater rafting course. Every year, it hosts the US Nationals in September, attracting the top athletes from across the country to cheer on the rowers.
Baltimore Thanksgiving Parade
The best Thanksgiving day parade takes place in Baltimore on the fourth Thursday in November. Visitors can marvel at amazing floats, marching bands and gigantic balloons that are part of Maryland's annual celebration. Children will enjoy the fact that Santa Claus arrives early to Baltimore at this time and can see him at Harbor Place.