A curated list of notable July events around Annapolis, the Eastern Shore, and nearby areas, featuring community festivals, concerts, sports, theater, fundraisers, family-friendly activities, and more. Event dates may be subject to change.
4th of July Celebration in Annapolis
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a day of history, music, and family-friendly festivities at the William Paca House and Garden in Annapolis on July 4 from 12 to 3 p.m. Hosted by Historic Annapolis, this special event includes admission to the William Paca House and Garden, the Museum of Historic Annapolis, and the Hogshead Trades Museum, offering visitors a chance to explore the nation’s past through guided tours, living history demonstrations, hands-on activities, live music, and colonial crafts. Highlights include appearances by renowned Frederick Douglass reenactor Nathan Richardson, Revolutionary-era music, patriotic games, and a Colonial Beer Garden, making this a memorable Independence Day celebration for all ages. More info: annapolis.org
Annapolis Blues FC VS. Bethesda SC
Cheer on the Annapolis Blues FC during their only home match of July as they take on Bethesda SC at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on July 11 at 7 p.m. Known for their passionate fan base and electric matchday atmosphere, the Blues have quickly become one of the region’s most exciting summer sports experiences. Whether you’re a dedicated soccer supporter or simply looking for a fun night out, expect high-energy action, hometown pride, and plenty of excitement under the lights as Annapolis defends its home turf. More info: annapolisblues.com
Midsummer
Set sail for an unforgettable summer evening during the Anne Arundel Chamber’s Midsummer’s Night Cruise on July 16 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. aboard the Catherine Marie in Annapolis. One of the Chamber’s signature events, this scenic cruise brings together business professionals, community leaders, and guests for networking, conversation, and stunning Chesapeake Bay views. Whether you’re looking to make new connections or simply enjoy a relaxing evening on the water, this popular gathering offers the perfect blend of business and pleasure. More info: aaaccc.org
Full Moon Paddle
Experience the Chesapeake Bay in a whole new light during Capital SUP’s Full Moon Paddle on July 28 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Annapolis. As the sun sets and the full moon rises, paddlers will glide across calm waters illuminated by moonlight, creating a peaceful and unforgettable evening on the Bay. Open to a variety of experience levels, this guided outing offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the area’s natural beauty after dark while taking in the sights and sounds of the waterways under the glow of the full moon. More info: capitalsup.com
Premier Lacrosse League All-Star Weekend
One of lacrosse’s biggest weekends is coming to Annapolis as the Premier Lacrosse League and Women’s Lacrosse League bring their All-Star Weekend to Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on July 4 and 5. The two-day celebration will feature elite men’s and women’s All-Star Games, skills competitions, youth clinics, fan zones, player meet-and-greets, and community events, creating a festival atmosphere for fans of all ages. Set in one of the sport’s most passionate hometowns, the event showcases the very best players in professional lacrosse while highlighting Annapolis’s deep connection to America’s oldest team sport. More info: premierlacrosseleague.com
Photo courtesy of Chesapeake Bay Paddle
Chesapeake Bay Paddle - hosted by Kent Island Outrigger Canoe Club
Paddlers from across the region will gather at the Kent Island Yacht Club in Chester on July 25 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the Chesapeake Bay Paddle, a daylong event that combines outdoor recreation with environmental stewardship. Hosted by the Kent Island Outrigger Canoe Club, the paddle raises awareness and support for organizations working to restore and protect the Chesapeake Bay, including efforts focused on oyster restoration, water quality, and conservation. Participants can enjoy a unique experience on the water while helping champion the future of one of the nation’s most treasured natural resources. More info: baypaddle.org
ShowBiz Revolution
Celebrate Independence Day with a unique blend of performance, history, and community engagement at People’s Park in Annapolis on July 4 Beginning at 1 p.m., participants will lead folk dances representing diverse cultures before presenting Fifty Nifty United States and Oh Freedom! Later in the afternoon, attendees can experience a powerful reading of Frederick Douglass’s famous speech, “What to the Slave is the 4th of July?” The event showcases the work of local youth performers through Show Biz Revolution while encouraging reflection on the many stories that shape the American experience. More info: theccm.org
Annapolis Striders Endless Summer 6-Hour Run 2026
The Annapolis Striders’ 16th Annual Endless Summer 6-Hour Run returns to Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis on July 19 beginning at 8 a.m. This unique endurance event invites runners of all abilities to challenge themselves on a scenic loop course, whether tackling a few miles, competing for the full six hours, or participating as part of a relay team. With a welcoming atmosphere, aid stations, awards, and a portion of proceeds benefiting the Semper Fi Fund, the event combines personal achievement with community support and charitable giving. More info: annapolisstriders.org
4th of July Fireworks Paddle & Cookout
Celebrate Independence Day from a unique vantage point during Capital SUP’s 4th of July Fireworks Paddle & Cookout in Annapolis. Beginning at Capital SUP Eastport on July 4 from 6:30 to 10 p.m., the evening pairs a catered cookout from SmokeHouse Tavern with a guided paddle through Back Creek before settling in on the water for spectacular views of the city’s fireworks display. Open to paddleboarders and kayakers of all skill levels, this family-friendly event offers a memorable way to enjoy the holiday, complete with Chesapeake Bay sunsets, great food, and front-row seats to one of Annapolis’s favorite traditions. More info: capitalsup.com
Illuminate Annapolis Mind-Body-Spirit-Arts Festival
Discover a day dedicated to wellness, creativity, and personal growth at Illuminate Annapolis on July 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Anne Arundel Community College. This free community festival brings together practitioners, artists, and vendors from across the region, offering everything from intuitive readings and energy work to handmade goods, spa products, and wellness services. Guests can also explore workshops and demonstrations throughout the day, making it an engaging opportunity to learn, connect, and experience a variety of holistic health and artistic offerings in one place. More info: illuminatefestivals.com
Thursday Night LIVE!
Spend your Thursday evenings enjoying live music under the open sky at Annapolis Town Center’s popular Thursday Night LIVE! concert series. Running throughout the summer, the free outdoor series pairs great music with patio dining, local eateries, and a relaxed community atmosphere. July’s lineup features a variety of crowd-pleasing sounds, including Remains of Radio, Don’t Back Down’s Tom Petty tribute, Honest Lee Soul, Mambo Combo, and Dan Heely. Bring a blanket, grab dinner from one of the Town Center’s restaurants, and settle in for a fun summer tradition that showcases everything from R&B and funk to Latin rhythms, rock, and blues. More info: annapolistowncenter.com
Wine Down Wednesday
Create a colorful piece of ocean-inspired art during the Hammered Garden Glass Mosaic Festival at The Resin Room on July 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. This hands-on workshop invites participants to design a unique mosaic using hammered glass, bringing the beauty of the coast to life through texture, color, and creativity. Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply looking for a fun night out, this guided experience offers a relaxing and rewarding way to create something beautiful to take home. More info: theresinroomdiy.com
Homestead Gardens Crape Myrtle Festival
Celebrate the peak of gardening season at Homestead Gardens’ annual Crape Myrtle Festival, taking place July 9–13 at both the Davidsonville and Severna Park locations. Inspired by the vibrant blooms that signal midsummer in the Mid-Atlantic, the festival invites visitors to browse thousands of plants, garden essentials, and home décor items while taking advantage of special savings and redeeming earned Myrtle Money. Whether you’re refreshing your landscape, adding seasonal color, or simply seeking inspiration, this beloved summer tradition offers plenty to explore throughout the five-day event. More info: homesteadgardens.com
Annual Independence Day Parade - America’s 250th Anniversary
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday at Severna Park’s annual Independence Day Parade, a beloved community tradition that draws thousands of spectators each year. On July 4 from 10 a.m. to noon, the parade will feature patriotic floats, marching groups, community organizations, and festive displays competing for honors including Best Overall, Best Theme, and Most Patriotic. With hometown pride, family-friendly entertainment, and plenty of red, white, and blue spirit, the event promises a memorable start to the holiday celebration. More info: gspacc.com
Tides & Tunes Every Thursday Night
Spend your Thursday evenings by the water at the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park’s popular Tides & Tunes Summer Concert Series. This free weekly concert tradition brings live music to the waterfront all summer long, with July’s lineup featuring The Grilled Lincolns, One Night Only, Timmie Metz Band, Sweet Leda, and the John Frase Project. Guests are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket, enjoy food from local food trucks, and purchase beverages that support the museum’s educational programs. Set against the scenic backdrop of Back Creek, the series offers a relaxed community atmosphere and an eclectic mix of rock, funk, soul, reggae, blues, and pop that makes every Thursday night feel like a summer celebration. More info: amaritime.org
Photograph by Shawn Owen
Tunesday Every Tuesday Night
Trade the typical weeknight routine for an evening on the water at Tunesday, a free community concert series hosted by Chronic Sailing on Back Creek. Held every Tuesday throughout the summer, the unique event features local musicians performing from a floating stage aboard a catamaran while attendees gather by kayak, paddleboard, canoe, boat, or from the shoreline to enjoy the show. July’s lineup includes Nate Finn, Joey Harkum, Callum, and Ryan Keith, bringing a mix of local talent to this laid-back waterfront experience. With music timed to end at sunset and the natural beauty of Back Creek as the backdrop, Tunesday offers one of Annapolis’s most distinctive ways to spend a summer evening. More info: chronicsailing.com
Chesapeake Baysox July Homestand
Spend a summer day—or evening—at the ballpark as the Chesapeake Baysox host two exciting series at Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie. The homestand begins with the Hartford Yard Goats from July 17–19, followed by a six-game series against the Erie SeaWolves from July 21–26. Fans can enjoy a mix of evening and afternoon games throughout the two-week stretch, along with all the classic elements of Minor League Baseball, including family-friendly entertainment, ballpark favorites, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re cheering from the stands with friends, planning a family outing, or simply looking for a quintessential summer experience, the Baysox offer plenty of opportunities to catch the action at home this July. More info: baysox.com
Celebrate America’s 250th with FOUR Beers of the Revolution 250
Raise a glass to America’s 250th anniversary on July 4 at 12 p.m at Chesepiooc Real Ale Brewery in Crofton during this unique celebration of Revolutionary-era brewing. The brewery’s “Beers of the Revolution 250” series honors the Founding Fathers through four historically inspired ales, including George Washington’s Tavern Ale, Thomas Jefferson’s Secret Porter, Sons of Liberty Ale, and Secretary of Beer Colonial Ale. Blending history, storytelling, and craft brewing, the event offers guests a flavorful journey through the tastes and traditions that helped shape early America. It’s a fitting way to celebrate Independence Day with a pint and a little history. More info: brewcrab.com
Brencore Entertainment All White Affair featuring the Brencore Allstars
Dress in your finest white attire and head to the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts on July 11 at 7 p.m. for Brencore Entertainment’s annual All White Affair. This year’s celebration features the Brencore Allstars performing a tribute to music legends Stevie Wonder, The Isley Brothers, and The O’Jays, bringing timeless hits and soulful energy to the stage. Known for its lively atmosphere and enthusiastic crowds, the event invites guests to gather with friends and family for an evening filled with classic music, great entertainment, and plenty of dancing. It’s a stylish summer tradition that promises a memorable night of nostalgia and celebration. More info: bowiecenter.org
A Red, White & Blue Tea
Celebrate the holiday weekend with an elegant afternoon tea on July 5 from noon to 3 p.m. at The Elkridge Furnace Inn and Garden House in Elkridge. This festive tea service features a thoughtfully curated menu of sweet and savory bites inspired by a patriotic palette of red, white, and blue, from fresh berries and delicate creams to beautifully crafted pastries and specialty teas. Blending classic tea traditions with seasonal flavors and creative presentation, the event offers a charming way to gather with friends and family while enjoying a refined culinary celebration of summer. More info: elkridgefurnaceinn.com
2026 NCCA Annual Golf Outing to Benefit Warrior Events
Join culinary professionals, food enthusiasts, and community supporters on July 20 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Crofton Country Club for the Nation’s Capital Chefs Association Annual Golf Tournament benefiting Warrior Events. Participants can enjoy a full day of golf, lunch, giveaways, access to practice facilities, and an awards dinner following play. The event brings together the region’s food community for a day of friendly competition and networking while supporting an organization dedicated to serving veterans and their families. Whether you’re a golfer, a foodie, or simply looking to support a worthy cause, this annual fundraiser offers a rewarding day on the course. More info: acfncca.org
Chesapeake Baysox Star-Spangled Spectacular & Fireworks Show
Celebrate Independence Day with the Chesapeake Baysox during the Star-Spangled Spectacular on July 4 at 6 p.m. at Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie. This festive evening combines the excitement of Minor League Baseball with family-friendly entertainment, on-field activities, music, and patriotic fun throughout the ballpark. Following the game, guests can enjoy one of the largest fireworks displays in the region as the night sky comes alive with a dazzling red, white, and blue celebration. It’s the perfect way to spend the Fourth of July with family and friends while enjoying America’s favorite pastime. More info: baysox.com
Mike Heuer at Homestead
Enjoy an evening of live music with internationally touring Alt/Soul artist Mike Heuer during select performances at Homestead Gardens in Davidsonville. Performing on July 1, July 8, July 23, and July 30 from 5 p.m. to midnight at 743 W. Central Ave., Heuer brings a soulful blend of alternative, soul, and contemporary influences shaped by his classical training and years of experience on stages ranging from intimate listening rooms to major concert venues. Known for his powerful vocals, dynamic musicianship, and expansive repertoire, Heuer delivers an engaging live performance that pairs perfectly with a summer evening in the gardens. More info: homesteadgardens.com
Photo by Jack Upchurch
Fireworks in the Harbor
Cap off the holiday weekend with a spectacular waterfront fireworks display during Fireworks in the Harbor on July 5 from 9:30 to 10:30 p.m. in St. Michaels. Whether you watch from a lawn chair along the shoreline, aboard a boat anchored in the Miles River, or on a special fireworks cruise, the colorful show offers a memorable finale to the Independence Day celebrations. The evening also includes the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s popular Big Band Night beginning at 6 p.m., featuring live music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere leading up to the fireworks. More info: tourtalbot.org
Easton Carnival & Independence Day Celebration
Enjoy one of the Eastern Shore’s favorite summer traditions during the Easton Carnival & Independence Day Celebration, taking place June 24 through July 4 at Waterside Village in Easton. Hosted by the Easton Knights of Columbus, this family-friendly event features classic carnival rides, traditional fair food, games, and live entertainment throughout its multi-day run. The celebration culminates on July 4 with live music, patriotic opening ceremonies, and a dazzling fireworks display after dusk, creating a festive and memorable way to celebrate Independence Day. More info: discovereaston.com
Photo by Ted Mueller
Plein Air Easton
From July 10–19, Plein Air Easton transforms downtown Easton and the surrounding landscapes of Talbot County into a living art studio during the nation’s largest and most prestigious juried plein air painting competition. Each year, artists from across the United States and around the world compete for one of just 58 coveted spots, spending the week creating original works inspired by the region’s waterfronts, farms, historic streets, and natural beauty. Hosted by the Avalon Foundation, the event offers visitors a rare opportunity to watch internationally recognized artists paint outdoors in real time while enjoying exhibitions, competitions, and celebrations that have made Plein Air Easton a signature summer tradition on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. More info: pleinaireaston.com
Free Avalon Concert Series in July
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an evening of free live music when Charlie and the CoolTones perform as part of the Avalon Foundation’s Outdoor Concert Series in downtown Easton on July 25 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Held outdoors on Harrison Street between Dover and Goldsborough Streets, the concert features the band’s crowd-pleasing blend of rhythm and blues, classic rock, funk, soul, and country. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, gather with friends and family, and enjoy one of the Eastern Shore’s favorite summer traditions. With dancing encouraged and a lively community atmosphere, the free concert offers a perfect way to spend a summer evening in the heart of Easton. More info: avalonfoundation.org
Old Fashioned 4th at the St. Michaels Museum
Step back in time during the Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration at the St. Michaels Museum on July 4 from 10 a.m. to noon. Held at the museum campus on East Chestnut Street, this family-friendly tradition begins with a festive children’s parade featuring patriotic costumes, decorated bicycles, wagons, tricycles, and even pets. Filled with small-town charm and community spirit, the event offers a nostalgic way to celebrate Independence Day while enjoying one of the Eastern Shore’s most beloved holiday traditions. More info: stmichaelsmuseum.org
Celebrate Independence Day in Oxford
Celebrate Independence Day on Maryland’s Eastern Shore during Oxford’s annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration on July 3rd at dusk along The Strand in Oxford. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Tred Avon River, this beloved community tradition lights up the waterfront with a spectacular display of color and patriotism. Bring a lawn chair and settle in along the shoreline, or enjoy the show from the water for a memorable holiday experience beneath the summer sky. More info: tourtalbot.org
Photo courtesy of Delmarva Shorebirds
Delmarva Shorebirds July Home Games
Catch America’s pastime on the Eastern Shore as the Delmarva Shorebirds welcome fans to Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in Salisbury for three exciting homestands throughout July. The month begins with a five-game series against the Charleston RiverDogs from July 1–5, followed by six games against the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers from July 7–12. The Shorebirds close out the month with a four-game series against the Hickory Crawdads from July 28–31. With a mix of evening and weekend games, family-friendly entertainment, and all the classic ballpark traditions fans love, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a summer night at the stadium and cheer on Delmarva’s hometown team. More info: theshorebirds.com
Downtown Easton’s 4th of July Sidewalk Sale
Kick off your Independence Day celebrations with a morning of bargain hunting at Downtown Easton’s annual Fourth of July Sidewalk Sale on July 4 from 8 a.m. to noon. Throughout the charming downtown district, local retailers will bring their merchandise outdoors and offer deep discounts on clothing, home décor, accessories, gifts, and more as they make room for new inventory. It’s a festive way to support small businesses, discover unique finds, and enjoy the community spirit of one of Easton’s favorite holiday traditions. More info: discovereaston.com
Island Flea Vintage & Craft Market
Treasure hunters, vintage lovers, and shoppers alike can spend the afternoon browsing the Island Flea Vintage & Craft Market at Cult Classic Brewing Company in Stevensville on July 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring more than 40 vendors, the market offers an eclectic mix of vintage finds, handmade goods, artwork, clothing, home décor, and one-of-a-kind treasures from local makers and collectors. Live music, food, and a laid-back community atmosphere make this monthly market a favorite destination for discovering something unexpected on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. More info: instagram.com/islandflea_ki
The American Ride - Toby Keith Tribute
Country music fans can celebrate the music and legacy of Toby Keith when The American Ride – A Tribute to Toby Keith comes to Cult Classic Brewing in Stevensville on July 26 from 3 to 7 p.m. This high-energy tribute concert features all the patriotic anthems, crowd-pleasing hits, and heartfelt ballads that made Keith one of country music’s most recognizable stars. With live music beginning in the afternoon, including an opening performance by Justin Singleton, the event promises an afternoon of sing-alongs, nostalgia, and classic country spirit in one of the Eastern Shore’s favorite live music venues. More info: cultclassicbrewing.com
Dorchester Historical Society Presents 250th Birthday- Celebrate America’s Story
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday during a daylong community festival hosted by the Dorchester Historical Society on July 3 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 1003 Greenway Drive in Cambridge. Designed for all ages, the event features historical reenactors, colonial-era costumes, family activities, a children’s zone, and opportunities to reflect on what this milestone anniversary means to future generations. The celebration culminates with live music beginning at 4 p.m., showcasing “Voices Through History,” a musical journey spanning from 1776 to today, alongside food, beverages, and plenty of hometown spirit. More info: visitdorchester.org
