Watermen’s Appreciation Day

Watermen’s Appreciation Day

Sunday, Aug. 9 | 10am-4pm

Get ready to experience the vibrant spirit of the Eastern Shore at Watermen’s Appreciation Day, hosted by the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum on Sunday, Aug. 9, from 10am-4pm.

Held in partnership with the Talbot Watermen Association since 2010, this annual celebration honors the hardworking men and women who bring the Bay’s bounty to our tables. The festivities include a must-see workboat docking competition, live music, a locally harvested crab feast, with plenty of additional options to eat and drink, plus more fun for the whole family.

Check back soon for advance ticket sales and more info on this year’s festival. CBMM members save with discounted pricing!

The high-energy watermen’s rodeo embodies the spirit of the festival. This is your chance to join the crowd along CBMM’s Miles River waterfront to cheer on the Chesapeake Cowboys, who showcase their skill and precision while maneuvering their deadrise workboats into an assigned slip in a thrilling, timed competition.

Steamed crabs will be available by the dozen, served hot and fresh by local watermen, along with a delicious menu of Eastern Shore delicacies from local food trucks as well as beer and cocktails.

There will also be live music at the Tolchester Beach Bandstand, local arts and crafts vendors spread across campus, and a silent auction in the Small Boat Shed in support of the Talbot Watermen Association.

In addition to these festivities, guests are encouraged to explore all the exhibitions and historic structures across CBMM’s 18-acre campus, including Waterman’s Wharf highlighting the life and work of a Chesapeake waterman and a working Shipyard dedicated to the preservation, construction, and care of traditional Chesapeake vessels.

Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the door. All food and beverages are an additional charge for all guests.

During the festival, additional free event parking will be available at St. Michaels Middle/High School, with a complimentary shuttle service running to and from CBMM.

For safety reasons, non-service dogs must be kept home during CBMM festivals, including Watermen’s Appreciation Day. Carry-on alcohol from dock or land is also prohibited. Spectator boats wishing to view the boat docking competition from the water must remain outside the buoyed channel.

Watermen’s Appreciation Day

Date/Time: Sunday, Aug. 10, 10am-4pm
Location: Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

Advance ticket sales are coming soon!