Free Ticket Giveaway!
The BayNet is running a free ticket giveaway for the Southern Maryland Heritage Festival - sign up now!
May 17 & 18, 2025
11:00 am - 5:00 pm
The Southern Maryland Heritage Festival returns for its 2nd year, celebrating local food, culture, and history over two days. The festival offers opportunities to explore regional heritage through food sampling, artisanal shopping, historical exhibits, and diverse musical performances, with family-friendly activities including a dedicated kids' area.
This page is being updated constantly as we get new information and bring on new exhibits, vendors, and more. Check back frequently for the latest updates!
Ticket Pricing
Two-Day Entrance (Adults): $18 in advance, $25 at the gate*
One Day Entrance (Adults): $10 in advance, $15 at the gate*
Children 12 & Under: FREE
*Please note that admissions at the gate will be cashless. If you are intending to buy tickets at the gate, please bring a credit or debit card.
Boondocking at Southern Maryland Heritage Festival
Camping Registration costs $100 and includes 2 adult two-day tickets to the festival. To reserve your spot, please reach out to Sotterleyfest@gmail.com
Boondocking registration closes on April 18th, email now to secure your spot!
Patuxent Boat Tour
When you buy your tickets for the festival you can now select an add-on ticket for a Patuxent Boat Tour aboard the Red Osprey with the Certified Chesapeake Bay Story-telling crew. The tour will visit the historic landmark on St. Leonard's Creek where two important battles of the war of 1812 took place as the crew tells you of its history and interesting facts.
Each trip is 45 minutes and can hold 15 passengers. Tours are at 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, and 4:30 each day. All passengers will be required to be at Sotterley Wharf 15 mins prior to departure. Not recommended for ages under 4. Dress for the weather.
2025 Exhibitors
ACLT is dedicated to protecting, caring for and sharing land within the Parkers Creek and Governor's Run watersheds to preserve natural and cultural places for the benefit of this and future generations.
Owner Pricilla Wentworth Leitch and Sunnyside Florals owner Shelley Russell, will be featuring each of their small, diversified flower farms focused on growing specialty cut fresh flowers grown here in Southern Maryland.
Bee Keeping Demos
Bee Keeper Grant Newman will be talking about the mechanics and importance of bee keeping and giving hive box demos.Â
Pre-revolutionary Rope Making as it was in the American Colonies. Techniques, styles, and uses of early rope making.
Ever seen an alpaca up close? You can now! This Clements-based farm will be bringing one of their treasured alpacas to greet guests and showing off some of the products they make with the wool.
Take a moment to appreciate our beautiful waterways with a quick trip aboard a Bunky's Charter Boat. Tickets available as an add-on!
Calvert County Historical Society
Founded in 1953, the Calvert County Historic Society's missions is to collect, preserve, research and share the history of Calvert County. They have contributed to the culture of Calvert County and helped establish county roadside markers, some museums, and other landmarks.
A small but talented group of quilters from Calvert County showing off (and selling) their stunning and intricate quilting projects.
At the Calvert Marine Museum pre-history, natural history, and maritime heritage come together to tell a unique story of the Chesapeake Bay. Their booth will address Maritime efforts, Fossils, Flora and Fauna of the region.
Located where the Patuxent River meets the Chesapeake Bay, the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL) is the oldest publicly support marine laboratory on the East Coast. CBL will feature the cleaning demonstration of oysters as well as Dolphin Watch, Waves of Plastic, and Patuxent Sentinel
A family run blacksmithing business local to Hollywood, Maryland that makes anything from coat racks to custom blades!
Chesapeake Heritage and Paleontology Tours
These National Parks Service and Maryland Department of Tourism Certified Chesapeake Bay Storytellers are bringing the fossils directly to you to show off the history of biodiversity in our home watershed.
This non-profit society of visual artists from Calvert, Charles and St. Mary's Counties will be bringing us an exhibit titled "Vanishing Landscapes" and will have an artist on site painting live!
Dean Newman, Nature Photographer
Nature photography is not the serene, life-prolonging experience most magazine articles say it is. Dean Newman talks "behind-the-scenes" stories of the images you see in publications.
Department of Land Use and Growth Management, St. Mary's County
The Department of Land Use and Growth management aims to enhance the quality of life for present and future generations through protection of the natural environment balanced with orderly growth, while ensuring our customers both guidance and effectiveness of the land use regulations.
A talented woodworker using 18th-century techniques who learned his trade through working on boats, Dick now makes everything from furniture to wooden toys.
Established in 1881 on the banks of the Patuxent River, this local farm grows acres of lavender, cut flowers, wildflowers, wine grapes, and more.
Small local winery specializing in hard apple ciders made by pressing apples into juice. Check out how apples were pressed historically with their demonstration.
Goodnight Quilt
Examine this historic quilt that won first place in the St. Mary's County Fair around 1916! The Goodnight Quilt is a "Crazy Quilt" created by at least 8 different women in a Chaptico Friendship Quilting Group.
Greenwell State Park is a nonprofit part dedicated to providing accessible and inclusive programs services and facilities for all community members with and without disabilities.
The Growing for Good program has contributed over 200,000 pounds of produce since inception in 2014 with the help of community partnerships and volunteers. Each year, the Sotterley family plant, harvest, and deliver fresh produce to local soup kitchens and food pantries with the help of dedicated volunteers and community partners.
Locally owned and operated beer wholesaler in St. Mary's County for over 75 years. Guy Distributing will be providing craft beers at the festival and discussing the history of the 10oz Budweiser in Southern Maryland.
Harry Jackson Decoys
Experience a demonstration and discussion of how true American folk are is created and participate by making wood chips with a draw knife.
Historic St. Mary's City is an engaging outdoor museum that brings history to life. Nestled in Maryland's first capital and spanning 800 acres along the St. Mary’s River, this site invites visitors to immerse themselves in 17th-century life.
Historic Sotterley Garden Guild
Historic Sotterley's Colonial Revival Garden is kept beautiful year-round by a dedicated group of gardeners who care as much about its history as the plants that grow in it. Learn about the garden directly from its caretakers!
Historic Sotterley's Sacred Space
Officially dedicated on August 24, 2024, Historic Sotterley's Sacred Space is a designated space to remember the resilience, courage, strength, and grace of those who came before us that lived and labored at Sotterley, including the enslaved.Â
Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum
JPPM is 560 scenic acres along the Patuxent River in Calvert County with more than 65 identified achaeological sites and 9.000 years of documented human occupation. JPPM will be featuring the Witnesses of Wallville, a documentation of the late 19th- and early 20th-century history of the community from a once predominantly Black rural landscape to the exurban landscape it has become into the present day.Â
Joseph Norris
Joseph Norris is St. Mary's County native who studied English Literature and History, focusing on contact period between Europeans and Native Americans.  During this time, he met Duncan Sings Alone, a Cherokee Indian trained in Lakota Sioux ceremony, and participated in traditional ceremony. Through this exposure, he found himself drawn to Native American storytelling.
With a focus on fresh, sessionable farmhouse ales, this local brewery is influenced by historic methods and the significant contribution neighborhood farm breweries offer to a thriving, rural community.
Loaded with colorful displays and interactive exhibits that highlight Maryland’s many commodities, the Maryland Agriculture Showcase attracts and informs visitors about the importance of Maryland agriculture in their lives. Â
This Calvert-based farm is spreading the word about the benefits of microgreens! Learn how you can pack more nutrients into your diet while supporting local agriculture.
NAS Patuxent River - Environmental Protection
The Navy is committed to environmental stewardship and is doing its part to minimize impacts to neighboring communities and the environment, while equipping our Sailors and Marines to be successful in their mission of national defense.
North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association
This non-profit not only champions the versatile hunting dog breeds that are a part of both North American history and modern hunting - they aid in game conservation and prevention of animal cruelty. NAVHDA will be providing demos and answering questions about these hunter-dog teams.
A small woman-owned lavender farm nestled right in Southern Maryland committed to regenerative agriculture practices and the sustainable stewardship of our land.
The Maryland State Sport! Ring jousting -- a test of skill and horsemanship where riders pass through a series of arches, attempting to spear three dangling rings and present them to the judges. Both Professional and Amateur rides will be at the Heritage Festival.
St. Maries Citty Militia
Colonial Maryland "armed band" re-enactors. The unit is organized as a typical English militia unit of the 1630s and 40s , armed with musket and pike and marching to the drum and commands of nearly 400 years past.
St. Mary's County Genealogical Society
The Genealogical Society of St. Mary’s was established in 1977 is committed to an interest in genealogical and historical research. We encourage the preservation and maintenance of genealogical and historic records. Try out some basic research. Â
St. Mary's County Historical Society
Founded in 1951, the St. Mary’s County Historical Society brings to life the stories of the people, places, and events of St. Mary’s County Maryland. Do a little research at the festival.
St. Mary's County Library is excited to be celebrating its 75th anniversary this year! Stop by the Library table to explore how to research and celebrate your own heritage using the Library's memory labs, genealogy tools, and local history resources
St. Mary's County Museum Division
Established to collect, preserve, research, and interpret the historic sites and artifacts which illustrate the natural and cultural histories of St. Mary's County and the Potomac River.
Oysters have long been an important part of Southern Maryland's economy, and this local oyster farm will be with us to talk about the importance of farming and how it's improved the sustainability of the industry.
SMECO
Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) was incorporated in 1937 and is one of the 15 largest electric cooperatives in the United States with more than 175,000 member accounts in Charles County, St. Mary’s County, southern Prince George’s County, and most of Calvert County.
A local activity vendor offering sand and spin art opportunities for kids.Â
Spring Ridge Middle School Rhythm Club
A performing arts club at Spring Ridge Middle School that showcases exciting routines combining drumming, beatboxing, singing, dancing, rapping, and stepping.Â
Southern Maryland Antique Power Association
The association will be featuring up to 100 antique tractors pulling various loads, showing off our agricultural heritage and history and how impressive these machines are.
Southern Maryland Audubon Society
Our local chapter of the Audubon Society is an all-volunteer organization that works on education, outreach, and advocacy to support birds locally and nationally. They'll be with us to talk about our important feathered friends!
The Southern Maryland Boat Club was originally founded in 1957 and reformed in 2015 to gather likeminded individuals and keep powerboat racing and its history alive in Southern Maryland.
Southern Maryland Equity in History Coalition
The Southern Maryland Equity in History Coalition’s objective is to elevate the history of Black, Indigenous, and Other People of Color across Southern Maryland. They connect and empower community-based organizations, and educational and public institutions throughout Southern Maryland to elevate access to the collective and multi-perspective history of the region.
Southern Maryland Quarter Horse Association
A non-profit organizatin that works to promote the American Quarter Horse in Maryland and provide opportunities for youth in horse related activities to help them gain life experiences and learn responsibility and leadership skills.
Southern Maryland Traditional Music and Dance
This upbeat group preserves and promotes the appreciation and performance of traditional and contemporary folk music and dance. They'll be leading attendees in contra dances with a live band!
Suttler Post Farms Clydesdales
Suttler Post Farm is home to Southern Maryland's only six horse hitch of Clydesdales and home to 8 Clydesdales geldings. These beautiful horses will be at the Heritage Festival and just waiting to pose for your photos!
Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
Check out the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail's Mobile Visitor Center to learn more about this 560-mile land and water route that tells the story of the War of 1812.
Stuffed Ham Demonstration
Award-winning chef and restauranteur Daniel Rebarchick will be demonstrating his Southern Maryland Stuffed Ham recipe! Visitors can try it as a sample, or visit Blue Wind Gourmet on site for a Stuffed Ham Sandwich.
Tobacco Demonstrations
Learn about this cash crop that shaped the landscape and economy of Southern Maryland for hundreds of years.
A locally owned and operated dealership that has been helping to support their community and give back to local charities for years.
Unified Committee for Afro-American Contributions
UCAC's mission is to document, increase understanding of, and foster African American contributions to the history and development of St. Mary’s County while advocating for improvements in health, education, and community building for all citizens of St. Mary’s County.
Whiskey Creek Wood Works
Info coming soon
2025 Artisan Vendors
Travel and landscape photography
Metal art with colorful patina finishes
Embroidered and sewn apparel and home decor
Jewelry, book binding, multi-media art, metalsmith
Compass Rose
Handsewn pine needle baskets, hand-crafted leather bracelets
Natural Insect Repellents
Textiles like aprons, table runners, cozies, bags, etc.
Freckles & Flour
Sourdough baked goods
Stunning river tables using live edge, locally sources hardwoods
J&M Creations
Resin and glass artwork
Jeanne Norton Hammett Serigraphs
Silkscreen printed art of local Southern Maryland views
Hair clips, hats, earrings, purses, whimsical crocheted items
Home decor and useful wood items
Art prints of local landscapes and nature scenes
Freeze Dried Candy
Repurposed barrel products - wine racks, charcuterie boards, furniture
Occasionally Round Pottery
Handmade pottery
Jewelry and other items made with local Maryland rocks
Beautiful useful and decorative pottery
Hand painted, dyed, batik and marbled silk and bamboo scarves & accessories
Custom rings and more made from deer antler, wood, & resin
Pressed flowers and elegant flower art
Trebor's Creations
Quilting, table runners, fabric baskets
Handmade wreaths and floral decor
Live Music
Our lineup of bands is in development and a full schedule of performances will be available closer to the event. Be sure to check back for updates!
HydraFX
These local stars perform a mix of cover, tribute, and original music, utilizing a unique blend of rock and reggae. Their brand new album, "Here & Now", is available on Spotify now!
Copper Pennies
This talented group of artists are ready to get you moving to your favorite classic rock beats!
All Funked Up
The All Funked Up Experience is a four piece quartet that plays vintage 70's funk tunes with a mix of R&B, Jazz, and Psychedelic rock. Led by drummer/Vocalist Shaun Chesley, this band will definitely make you wanna get up and get down.
Chaptico Songworks
Vocalist and guitarist David Norris, along with bandmates Tammy Patrick and Jeff Farias, perform original music inspired by the history and lore of Chaptico, Maryland.
Community Choir
Enjoy a musical journey with Pastor John Tillery. With the formation of his community choir from Southern Maryland, Pastor John Tillery & Voices II Voices are ushering in a new era of choir music.
Food & Drink Vendors
Home cooking including wings, cheesesteaks, salmon burgers, fried shrimp, Gyros and Lumpia
Blue Wind Gourmet uses local ingredients, fresh herbs, thoughtfully sourced proteins, and delicious sauces. They will feature sandwiches, salads, wraps including crab cakes, and award-winning stuffed ham sandwiches.
Handmade food using fresh ingredients sourced locally, including appetizers, sandwiches, baskets, and platters with crab, shrimp, oysters, homemade crab cakes, and more.Â
All your favorite barbeque classics such as ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, plus a whole pig roast on Sunday, May 18th!
Locally owned and operated beer wholesaler in St. Mary's County for over 75 years. Guy Distributing will be providing craft beers at the festival and discussing the history of the 10oz Budweiser in Southern Maryland.
Explore 13 craft beverage producers in St. Mary's County, offering something for every taste from breweries, to coffee roasters, distilleries, juice bars, and wineries.   Featured at the Heritage event will be: Xella Winery and Vineyard, Port of Leonardtown Winery, Julie Farm Fermentations Brewery, Real Food Juice Bar, Tobacco Barn Distillery, Southern Trail Distillery, Corteau Vineyards
​Farm Fresh Ice cream, shakes, floats, banana splits, and more!
Scheduled Events
| Tractor Shed Schedule | Saturday | Sunday |
| Joe Norris - Native American Storytelling | 11:30-12:30 | 11:30-12:30 |
| Ham demo (Dan Rebarchick) | 12:30 | 12:30 |
| Dean Newman - Nature Photographer | 2:15-3:10 | 2:15 - 3:10 |
| Community Choir | 3:15-3:45 | 3:15-3:45 |
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| Entrance (warehouse) | ||
| David Norris | 11:00-1 | 11:00-1 |
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| Windmill Pavillion | ||
| Spring Ridge Rythem Club | 12-12:30 | - |
| All Funked up | 1-2:30 | - |
| Copper Pennies | 2:30 - 5 | - |
| Contra Dancing | - | 11:30-1:00 |
| Wes Ryce | - | 1-2:30 |
| HydraFX | - | 2:30-5 |
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| Audubon Trail Walks | 12 and 3:30 | 12 and 3:30 |
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| Patuxent Charter Boat Tour (Wharf) | 11:30 | 11:30 |
| 12:30 | 12:30 | |
| 1:30 | 1:30 | |
| 2:30 | 2:30 | |
| 3:30 | 3:30 | |
| 4:30 | 4:30 |
Event Sponsors
We are actively seeking additional sponsors for the 2025 Southern Maryland Heritage Festival! If you're interested in being a part of this incredible event that celebrates our region's unique history and culture, please reach out to sotterleyfest@gmail.com. A sample of our sponsorship form is linked below.
Gold Sponsors
Red Sponsors
Black Sponsors
Yellow Sponsors
