Last updated on April 8th, 2025
Crab festivals in Maryland are aplenty, especially during the summer months! So, I decided it’s time to put these annual crab festivals together in one big list, so that we Marylanders can plan ahead!
If you were born and raised here, you certainly know this familiar term in Maryland: ‘Crab Feast’. It’s a magical, happiness-inducing tradition that families all over our state partake in every summer.
My fondest memories growing up are sitting outside on the deck with my family, picking crab meat from a pile of steamed, Maryland blue crabs for hours, while talking and laughing.
Sadly, there’s no crab festivals in Frederick, but if you’re looking for a great, local crab house for a good crab feast minus the ‘festival’ part, click on over to best steamed crabs in Frederick, MD.
Now, let’s dive into some of the best crab festivals Maryland has to offer. Grab your crab mallets!
1. Choptank Cruise & Crab Feast – August 16, 2025
Hurlock, Maryland
The Choptank Cruise and Crab Feast combines serious eating with a scenic river cruise, all aboard the Choptank River Queen — a replica stern wheeler.
As you make your way down the river, you’ll get to see incredible views of the Maryland Eastern Shore.
Meanwhile, enjoy endless steamed crabs, crab soup, fried chicken, clam strips, corn-on-the-cob, coleslaw, and even dessert!
On your way back, the boat stops at Eastern Shore Market, a perfect chance to grab some local goodies like fresh bread, meats, soups, and salads.
2. The St. Mary’s County Crab Festival – June 14, 2025
St. Mary’s Fairgrounds, St. Mary’s City
I’ve been here two years running now, and trust me, St. Mary’s County Crab Festival is a must-visit.
At this Maryland crab festival you’ll find delicious steamed crabs, crab cakes, crab soups, and plenty of other seafood options.
There’s even stalls by regional crafters with handmade items — the perfect opportunity to pick up some cool “crabby” gifts.
There’s also live music, a fun classic car show, and an inflatable play zone for kids.
3. The Crab Place Crab & Cruises – May thru Sept 2025 (20 Themed Events)
Crisfield, Maryland (Eastern Shore, Chesapeake Bay)
The legendary Crab Place Crab & Cruise runs throughout the summer in 20 themed events.
Think Motown, 80s Dance nights, and Old School R&B vibes, plus unlimited Maryland Blue Crabs, steamed shrimp, ribs, wings, and complimentary beer.
4. Middletown Volunteer Fire Company Crab Feast – July 12, 2025
Fire Department Activities Building, Middletown
The Middletown Volunteer Fire Company Crab Feast is a fundraising event for the United Fire Company.
Feast on all-you-can-eat crabs, fried chicken, and hot dogs, then try your luck at raffles and games.
It’s a family-friendly community event you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets now!
5. Annual Crab Feast Baltimore Maryland – September 19, 2025
Rosedale Gardens, Baltimore
I’ve heard nothing but good things about the Annual Crab Feast in Baltimore — it’s possibly the best crab fest in Maryland.
It supports the National Federation of the Blind, serving incredible steamed crabs, beef BBQ, fried chicken, and an impressive buffet spread
Tickets sell out fast, so click the link to get yours now!
6. Annapolis Crab Feast – August 1st, 2025
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Annapolis
The Annapolis Crab Feast is a Maryland tradition — 80 years and counting!
Enjoy unlimited crabs with plenty of sides. You’ll also find a bake sale for those of you with a sweet tooth.
It’s a major fundraiser that helps the local non-profits. If you’re looking for a crab feast in Maryland, this is a good one.
7. Maryland Seafood Festival – September 13-14, 2025
Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis
I love the Maryland Seafood Festival because it’s not just about crabs — it celebrates all things seafood!
There’s a huge crab cook-off, tons of local vendors, and a huge choice of craft drinks.
It’s a two-day event, with a huge crab soup cook-off on the Saturday.
The steamed crab is served up by Jimmy’s Famous Seafood. If you want some, remember to preorder beforehand.
So grab some tickets and get ready for one of the best crab festivals in Maryland.
8. Blue Crabs & Blueprints – August 23, 2025
Walkersville Fire Hall Grounds, Walkersville
This crab feast with a cause, Blue Crabs & Blueprints, supports affordable housing in the local community.
Here you’ll also find a family-friendly outdoor picnic and yard party. And there’ll be live music from local favorite, Payload.
The crabs are all by JB Seafood, but you’ll have to preorder them as there’s no sales on the day.
9. Crab Feast Cambridge MD
Ocean Odyssey Restaurant in Cambridge, MD
While not exactly a crab festival, you can hold your very own Maryland crab feast in the newly renovated Crab “Pickin’ Room” at the Odyssey Bar in Cambridge MD.
It fits up to 50 guests and even has special stainless steel crab tables and craft beers on tap. Perfect for celebrating something special!
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I loved, loved, loved this “post!!!”
I can’t wait to try the crab stuffed salmon!! I’m drooling!!
I had NO idea there were so many wineries in Frederick? We need to set a time, ha!!
Thank you for all your hard work researching everything and the fabulous pictures!!!