Thank you, Annapolis, for supporting the 2009 Maryland Maritime Heritage Festival, particularly given the inclement weather.
We plan to be back better than ever in 2010. Please stay tuned for details.
2009 Festival Information: Questions & Answers
When will the Festival be held?
Friday, May 1- 5-9 p.m.
Saturday, May 2 - 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday, May 3 - 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Where will the Festival be held?
City Dock, Annapolis, Maryland. Festival is held outdoors and is handicapped accessible. The Festival takes place rain or shine.
Are tickets needed?
No, the Festival is free and open to the public, however, there is an admission charge for Boatfest, the kickoff party on Friday, May 1.
What is the purpose of the Festival?
The Festival is a three-day celebration of the Chesapeake Bay, focusing on Education, Entertainment, and Stewardship of the area's unique maritime heritage.
Who runs the Festival?
The Festival has a volunteer steering committee whose members run the Festival for the Annapolis and Anne Arundel Chamber of Commerce.
What is there to do at the Festival?
Live daily concerts in a variety of genres, with maritime and educational components at the Susan Campbell Park Stage.
Maritime Adventures – Dozens of colorful exhibits celebrate life and culture on the waterfront. Entertaining and interactive, these exhibits and hands-on projects highlight those who work and play on the bay, while promoting educational and environmental awareness.
Build a Boat Contest – Participating teams test their construction skills on Saturday as they build their boat out of the “basics” and race on Sunday. A not-to-miss event if you are a participant or spectator as you view who will sink or win!
Antique & Classic Boat Society – View these antique and classic boats and yachts along Ego Alley at City Dock.
Kent Narrows Racing Association – View and have your (or your children’s) picture taken in one of these Thunder on the Narrows racing hydroplanes or jersey speed skiffs.
National Sailing Hall of Fame – View the legendary Pride of Baltimore II (photo, right) and Manitou, President John F. Kennedy’s sailing White House.
Irish Currach Races by the the Annapolis Irish Rowing Club – Challenge your friends, associates or the pros to a race on the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Enjoy this hands-on experience as teams of four enjoy friendly competition while racing in a traditional Irish wood framed boat. Fee.
Try-it Dock– Experience water activities with the sponsors; Sailing, rowing, Annapolis Sailing School and J/24s participating in the 2009 J/24 Worlds.
Family Activities – Shoreside Boating Olympics will be fun for swabbies of all ages as families negotiate the boating themed obstacle course! Family Scavenger Hunt specially designed by COG Kids to explore the outdoors surrounding Ego Alley, a Small Craft Advisory Zone presented by Artworks Studios where the kids can create their very own maritime art masterpieces, face painting, body art, painted tattoos and the popular Pirate Pet Parade returns with a special “celebrity” appearances from the Annapolis SPCA!
Are volunteers needed for the Festival?
Yes! If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Tom Stalder or call 410 693-8394. Download the Volunteer Application.
How can I be a Festival exhibitor?
The deadline for application has passed, however, you may download the Exhibitor Application Form, fill it out and contact us to see if you can be accommodated.
How many people are expected to attend?
More than 23,000 people visited the festival in 2008. We anticipate a similar size crowd this year.
What if I need more information?
Contact Dave Hanson, 410-991-1702.
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