Mark your calendars for the 2017 Delmarvalous Festival hosted by the Ward Museum in Salisbury, MD to celebrate all things Delmarva! Scheduled for Saturday, May 20th, the Delmarvalous Festival is a family-friendly event designed for all ages to enjoy.

Several spectator events include a Smith Island Cake Demo, Decoy Carving Demo, and Eel Pot Demonstration. Ever wonder how nine delicious layers of cake and buttercream frosting could be layered so beautifully together? Well, here’s your chance to watch the pros in action. Did you know that wooden eel pots are a Maryland Eastern Shore tradition that began by Native Americans in our local area? Be sure to visit with Rhonda Aaron, an Eastern Shore native, to learn more about the craft of making a traditional eel pot.

Another local tradition that surrounds our communities and homes is agriculture on the Eastern Shore. The Farming on the Eastern Shore narrative stage will be hosted by Jay Martin, Aaron Cooper, and others. For the kids, free crafts will include native species seed starters, soap carving, and introductory basket weaving. Bonus for all of our moms and dads out there – this is a free event! We don’t want to give away all of the surprises that will be presented during the Delmarvalous Festival, but we can assure you that everyone will leave having learned at least one thing about the heritage of the Eastern Shore.

While a majority of the event will be held indoors at the Ward Museum, there will be plenty of opportunity to enjoy the outdoor area with local vendors and artisans. Make sure to bring market bags with you as several farmers will be on hand to sell their local produce and goods. Come early or stay late for an evening concert by local legend, Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Saltwater Cowboys, from 5-7pm.

For more information about this special event, please visit the Ward Museum website at http://www.wardmuseum.org/SpecialEvents/DelmarvalousFestival/tabid/873/Default.aspx and please remember to #BeDelmarvalous!