Annapolis, MD, January 8, 2026

The Maryland Seafood Festival is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary with the introduction of Mama Duck, a 60-foot inflatable duck. Scheduled for September 12 and 13, this landmark community event will take place at Sandy Point State Park, highlighting local culinary traditions and fostering community engagement. Attendees can enjoy seafood, live music, and family-friendly activities, solidifying the festival’s status as an essential aspect of Maryland’s cultural heritage.

Giant Duck to Join Maryland Seafood Festival’s 60th Anniversary

Exciting Community Celebration Planned in Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS, MD — This September, the Maryland Seafood Festival is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary with a standout attraction: a 60-foot-tall inflatable duck named Mama Duck. This unique addition marks a significant and fresh aspect for this beloved event, showcasing how local organizers can bring innovative ideas to build a stronger community. By enhancing attractions while streamlining event coordination, organizers aim to highlight the importance of local culture and culinary heritage.

The event will take place at Sandy Point State Park, a stunning venue that allows the community to come together along the scenic Chesapeake Bay. Events such as this not only promote Maryland’s culinary traditions but also empower Baltimore’s neighborhoods and businesses, reinforcing local pride and community engagement. As we approach this milestone, the positive impact of such gatherings is increasingly evident — they showcase the abundance of local talent, artistry, and togetherness.

Festival Highlights

The Maryland Seafood Festival is scheduled for September 12 and 13, 2026, and promises a full range of activities for attendees. Visitors will have the chance to indulge in authentic Maryland seafood sourced from local vendors, immerse themselves in live music performances, and compete in the famed crab soup cook-off. In addition to enjoying food, attendees can sample craft beers and wines, shop from local artisans, and engage in activities designed for families alike.

About Mama Duck

Mama Duck, weighing approximately 8,000 pounds, claims the title of the world’s largest rubber duck. Each time Mama Duck is inflated or deflated, the process takes around 90 minutes, showcasing the considerable effort involved in bringing this whimsical feature to life. Mama Duck has a history of visiting various locations in Maryland, cementing herself as a local favorite after her appearances in Crisfield and Leonardtown in 2023 and 2025. This year’s festival will capitalize on her popularity, sure to attract more visitors and create lasting memories.

Event Details

Community members considering attending are encouraged to plan ahead, as parking at Sandy Point State Park can become limited during the festival. For those seeking an enhanced experience, VIP ticket holders will enjoy exclusive views of Mama Duck along with access to unique food options. In addition, a new GA+ ticket option offers advantages such as private seating, private bathrooms, and a personal bar. For details on tickets and more, interested individuals can visit the official Maryland Seafood Festival website.

Background

The Maryland Seafood Festival has been an integral part of local tradition since 1966, celebrating Maryland’s rich seafood culture. Over decades, this event has developed into a major attraction, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The upcoming 60th anniversary is set not only to honor the festival’s history but also to blend beloved traditions with inventive new features like Mama Duck, thereby enriching the experience for all who attend.

Related Events

In addition to the Maryland Seafood Festival, Maryland hosts a plethora of other significant events that celebrate its culinary and cultural heritage. The U.S. National Oyster Shucking Championship, the Waterfowl Festival, and the Maryland Chicken Wing Festival are just a few examples of occasions that highlight the state’s diverse traditions and enhance community spirit.

Conclusion

As the Maryland Seafood Festival approaches, it promises to deliver a delightful experience that underscores community engagement, local culinary traditions, and innovative partnerships. This event is a testament to the resilience of local organizers and the vibrant spirit of Baltimore. Attendees are encouraged to partake in this celebration, support local businesses, and contribute to the ongoing development of communal experiences that strengthen connections throughout the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Maryland Seafood Festival?

The Maryland Seafood Festival is an annual event celebrating Maryland’s rich seafood heritage, featuring local seafood vendors, live music, and various family-friendly activities.

When is the 60th anniversary of the Maryland Seafood Festival?

The 60th anniversary of the Maryland Seafood Festival is scheduled for September 12 and 13, 2026, at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis, MD.

What is Mama Duck?

Mama Duck is a 60-foot-tall inflatable duck, weighing approximately 8,000 pounds, known as the world’s largest rubber duck. It has previously appeared in Maryland, including visits to Crisfield and Leonardtown in 2023 and 2025.

What activities are planned for the festival?

The festival will feature authentic Maryland seafood from local vendors, live music performances, a crab soup cook-off, craft beer and wine tastings, shopping from local artisans, and family-friendly activities along the Chesapeake Bay.

How can I attend the festival?

Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead, as parking at Sandy Point State Park can fill up quickly during the festival. VIP ticket holders will have the best views of Mama Duck and access to exclusive food options. A new GA+ option offers private seating, private bathrooms, and a personal bar. For more information and ticket purchases, visit the official Maryland Seafood Festival website.

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