The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD will hold the 9th annual Watermen’s Appreciation Day on Sunday, August 12th! Filled with exciting festivities, the event will feature a spirited boat docking contest, steamed crabs and other regional food, live music, beer, boat rides, family activities, and more. CBMM members, in cooperation with the Talbot Watermen Association, have organized this fundraising event, and proceeds will benefit both organizations.

Beginning at noon, the “watermen’s rodeo” boat docking contest returns to the Miles River near CBMM’s 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse. 

“The boat docking contest is great fun to watch, and participate in,” said TWA President Jeff Harrison. “It’s a spirited day of celebrating the Chesapeake Bay watermen, from the rodeo to the cold beer and hot crabs.”

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the Chesapeake watermen.

Most importantly, local steamed crabs, beer, and other food and beverages will highlight this annual waterfront festival. Sit back and relax as the watermen serve the day’s catch of steamed crabs. CBMM and the watermen will also sell steamed crabs by the dozen!

“We’ve consistently been able to sell a dozen steamed crabs with corn on the cob at $25,” said Harrison. “We’re hoping this year’s market will allow us to do the same.”

Dance and sing along to the live music at the historic Tolchester Beach Bandstand along the waterfront, and enjoy games and activities offered throughout the day. Then, later on in the day will be on-the-water activities for children including a children’s rowboat competition. There will be prizes!

During Watermen’s Day, event-goers can take part in a silent auction in the Small Boat Shed. All proceeds will directly benefit Talbot Watermen Association.

For safety reasons, CBMM does not allow non-service dogs at festivals. This includes Watermen’s Appreciation Day, meaning only leashed dogs are permitted on grounds. Carry-on alcohol from dock or land is prohibited.

So venture on over to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum for a day filled with delicious eats, cold drinks, and fun family festivities! Click here to purchase tickets.