Somerset County Blog

A Maryland tradition, layer by layer

Some foods are just food. And some foods are memory, identity, and place all folded into one.

Smith Island Cake is the second kind.

Maryland's official state dessert didn't come from a bakery or a food trend. It came from generations of women baking thin layers one at a time in tin ovens over open flames on a small island in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay. It came from Christmas cakes and dredge boats and Halloween socials and a quiet competition among neighbors t...

The Tangier Sound Music Festival is bringing Niko Moon to Somerset County, Maryland to headline the live concert on Saturday, June 13 at the waterfront at Somers Cove in Crisfield, MD. Joining him are Dylan Schneider, Lewis Brice, Alyssa Flaherty, and Carley Twigg, for a full day o...

If you’ve been looking for a way to explore Smith Island, MD and Tangier Island, VA in Somerset County, MD, or you’re a lover of birding,

Black History Month in Somerset County is a time to honor the people, traditions, and stories that have shaped the community and the Eastern Shore. Throughout February, local organizations are hosting events that celebrate African American history through food, music, art, and shar...

America’s 250th birthday is right around the corner—and Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore is rolling out a year-long celebration filled with history, stories, family fun, and unforgettable experiences. The Lower Shore—Som...

Small Business Saturday is happening on November 29, 2025, and Somerset County, MD’s Read More

If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding across calm waters, exploring winding marsh creeks, and spotting ospreys overhead, Somerset County, Maryland is your kind of paddling paradise. Tucked along the Lower Eastern Shore, our waterways are more than just scenic—they’re a way of life. Whether you’re a seasoned k...

By Everett Landon, Sr.

There is an old saying, “time and tide waits for no...

Get your General Admission or VIP tickets now for the Read More

Whether you’re an Eastern Shore local looking for new ways to celebrate or a visitor hoping to experience the warmth of the season, Somerset County, MD offers an array of unique holiday events and jolly traditions that will create magical memories this holiday season. From ni...

Support your community while you knock off your holiday shopping list! Small Business Saturday is November 30, 2024, and Read More

From Deal Island to Crisfield, Somerset County, MD is gearing up for exciting Labor Day weekend celebrations. Plan your end-of-summer visit to explore Somerset County over the holiday weekend. View more information on Labor Day Events in Somerset County, MD.  

Get ready to paint the town red, white, and blue because Independence Day is just around the corner! As the 4th of July approaches, Somerset County, MD is gearing up for a spectacular celebration of freedom, patriotism, and good old-fashioned fun. From dazzling waterfront fireworks display lighting up the...

Summer days are best spent outside. This summer, travelers looking to enjoy fresh air, natural landscapes and outdoor adventures should visit Somerset County, Maryland.

Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and nestled along the Chesapeake Bay, Somerset offers a wealth of outdoor attractions for sportsmen, nature lovers and families. At Sugar Water Manor, a cozy bed and breakfast situated on a 68-acre farm, visitors can get a taste of a rural lifestyle by feeding ducks, kayaking and viewing stunning sunsets.

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The summer season is upon us and that means there are plenty of events to enjoy this month in Somerset County, Maryland. Show off your outdoorsy side at local fishing tournaments or dedicate your time to eating Maryland’s favorite food, crab! Learn more about several

The Delmarva Peninsula is home to a vibrant birding community and a variety of landscape environments to encounter countless species. Learn about birding weekends and must-see observation areas in Somerset County, featuring tidal wetlands, islands, forests, or salt marshes. ...

The official start of crabbing season is just days away, and we know Marylanders, especially those in Somerset County, are excited for our time of year to shine. Fresh crabs are a telltale sign of the arrival of spring and it's a great time to review the rules for recreational crabbing. <...

Are you ready to beat the winter blues and experience a different scene and cuisine? Celebrate Somerset County, MD’s Restaurant Week where local favorites and hot new spots are offering specials all week long! Check out our list of participating restaurants, many of whom are offering deals for you, a group, or you and your Valentine!

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Somerset County, MD invites lovebirds to celebrate romance in our small towns! With Valentine's Day just around the corner, Restaurant Week coming up, and the charm of local bed and breakfasts scattered throughout, we provide the ideal backdrop for a memorable weekend getaway. Whether you're local or a visitor looking for a new place to explore, our coastal county has something special to offer.

Valentine’s Day Plans

Make it your goal to get to know...

The leaves are beginning to turn and the weather is getting cooler here in Somerset County, MD! While fall brings about the cozy trends of pumpkin spice and football game appetizers, did you know that fall is one of the best times for crabs and seafood? In fact, October is National Seafood Month in the United States! While fresh shellfish can be enjoyed year-round, there are several reasons why this time of year stands out as the best.

Why Fall is the Best Time for Fresh Cra...

The Somerset County Fair is back in 2023 in Princess Anne, MD! Every year, this tight-knit region comes alive with excitement and camaraderie as it hosts the highly anticipated fair and all of the events that come with it. Join in for a delightful showcase of local culture, agricultural heritage, and good old-fashioned fun for residents and visitors alike.

2023 Somerset County Fair Events Schedule

Mark your calendars because...

Photo Credit: Laura Scharle

Read firsthand what a weekend in Somerset County, MD is like! From enjoying outdoor activities at our campsites to visiting antique stops, delicious seafood sandwiches, and learning about the towns' rich histories, Laura Scharle's party of three had a blast at Jane's Island State Park for Paddlefest. Read all about it here and see if she mentions your favorite spot in Somerset Coun...

Welcome to Somerset County, Maryland, a hidden gem nestled on the picturesque Eastern Shore, with its stunning waterfront landscapes, charming small towns, and rich maritime history, offering an assortment of exciting water-based activities for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Take notes from us as we dive into the experiences you can look forward to on the beautiful waters of Somerset County!

Things to Do on the Water in Somerset County, MD

Memorial Day weekend is right around the corner, and Somerset County, MD, has events all weekend long to celebrate! All of our towns have something special planned, so you can take your pick of family fun while remembering what this holiday is all about. 

Check out some of the events below!

Events on May 26, 2023

Corbin Studio & Gallery - 4 East Main Street, Crisfield
From 5 PM to 8 PM, stop by the Corbin Studio & Gal...

You don’t have to “hope” for a good time at Great Hope Golf Course in Westover, Maryland.  It is guaranteed to be a Great time with friends, family or your business partners. Experience a championship level golf course, surrounded by nature at a value like no other on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.  

Imagine being greeted with a friendly smile and superior customer service from the moment you step foot on the property to the time of your departure. Great Hope offers a fas...