Memorial Day falls on the last Monday in May — this year May 25 — so the weekend prior is full of fun celebrations. Make the most of the long weekend by checking out these family-friendly events and festivals in the Chesapeake Bay area!
Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Chestertown Tea Party Festival | Chestertown
This festival is a Memorial Day weekend tradition in Chestertown and commemorates the Chestertown Tea Party, which was held in response to the Boston Tea Party. In addition to the festival’s many activities, the main event is a reenactment of the protest where participants can throw tea into the Chester River. The festival runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Free | chestertownteaparty.org
George W. Owings, III Stars & Stripes Festival | Chesapeake Beach
Chesapeake Beach’s signature Memorial Day event kicks off with a formal ceremony at Veteran’s Memorial Park honoring fallen soldiers and other service members from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday. After the ceremony, a family-friendly festival at Kellam’s Field Complex features fun activities and live entertainment until 2 p.m.
Free | chesapeakebeachmd.gov
‘Behind the Lines: A 9/11 Story’ | Easton
The production of “Behind the Lines: a 9/11 Story” debuts at the Avalon Theatre on Saturday and Sunday, follows a firefighter — the sole survivor of FDNY Rescue Company 5 at the World Trade Center on 9/11 — and a three-tour Afghanistan combat veteran. For Memorial Day weekend, it offers a moving story of resilience and hope for parents and older children, with immersive multimedia, lighting and a live ensemble led by Farinacci, including reimagined selections from artists such as Gnarls Barkley and Leonard Cohen.
$50-$100 | avalonfoundation.org
Monday
Memorial Day Community Workout | Hanover
Work up a sweat this Memorial Day for a day of fitness fun kicking off at 9:30 a.m. at Merritt Clubs Buckingham! Any participants ages 12 and older are welcome regardless of their fitness level or prior experience. This event also features raffles and food for participants.
Free | merrittclubs.com/location/buckingham
Annapolis Memorial Day Parade | Annapolis
Annapolis will be celebrating Memorial Day with its annual parade, which features community organizations, service members and live performers marching through town beginning at 10 a.m. and ending at the City Dock. It’s one of the largest Memorial Day parades in Maryland, making it a great way to celebrate the holiday and honor fallen soldiers.
Free | annapolis.gov
