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Festival season is here: biggest food events are back in Annapolis

Warmer weather is finally here… and that means one thing: festival season has officially arrived!

If you’re looking for an excuse to get outside, eat well, and spend a full day with friends or family, Annapolis has you covered this spring and summer with a lineup of can’t-miss events.

From wings and whiskey to Irish music and seafood on the Bay, Peake Events is bringing some of Maryland’s most anticipated festivals back for 2026.

All events are family-friendly, packed with food, live music, and interactive experiences all day long.

To kick things off, you can save 10% on tickets with code MOCOSHOW (valid through April 17 for general admission tickets).

2026 Festival Lineup

Maryland Chicken Wing Festival

April 18 & 19 | Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds

Two full days dedicated to one thing: incredible wings.

Sample nearly 100 flavors from top local vendors, explore the new Wing Alley (where you can mix and match wings from multiple spots), and enjoy live music, drinks, and a high-energy atmosphere.

New this year:

  • “Best Dipped Wing” People’s Choice Award (presented by Marie’s)
  • Wing Eating Contest (presented by Capital City’s Mambo Sauce)

If you love food festivals, this is one of the biggest ones of the spring.

Annapolis Irish Festival

May 29 & 30

A two-day celebration of Irish culture with a modern twist.

Featuring nationally recognized acts like Gaelic Storm, Scythian, and Carbon Leaf, this festival blends traditional Irish music with a full-scale outdoor concert experience.

Expect:

  • High-energy live performances
  • Great food and drinks
  • A packed crowd and unbeatable atmosphere

Anne Arundel Asian American Festival

May 31

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a vibrant day of food, culture, and community.

Enjoy authentic dishes from across Asia, cultural performances, and interactive experiences for all ages.

This event continues to grow each year and has quickly become one of the most unique festivals in the region.

Maryland Seafood Festival (60th Anniversary)

September 12 & 13 | Sandy Point State Park

A Maryland tradition since 1966 returns with a major milestone.

This year’s highlight: Mama Duck, the world’s largest rubber duck, making a special appearance along the Chesapeake Bay.

Festival favorites include:

  • Crab Soup Cook-Off
  • Oyster & Beer Tent
  • Fresh local seafood
  • Live music and family activities

Set against the backdrop of the Bay Bridge, it’s one of the most iconic events in the state.

Will We See You This Year?

These aren’t just events, they’re full-day experiences designed around food, music, and community.

Whether you’re planning a date day, bringing the kids, or getting a group together, there’s something for everyone.

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