The Leonardtown Lions Club hosted the 27th Annual Crab Festival at St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds, Saturday June 9, 2012. Gates were open from11am until 9pm. This was the first time in recent memory that the event was held on Saturday. This marks the fifth consecutive year for the fairgrounds as the site of the annual CrabFest.

A total of 2,400 paid admission at the gate, a 36% increase over last year and a new record number. With hundreds of children and courtesy tickets redeemed by sponsors and patrons, the crowd was easily greater than 3,000, by far the largest crowd ever. Much of this is a result of those who continued to arrive after 4:30, an estimated 450 additional patrons. Even before counting the later hours admissions, attendance was up 11% over last year. Preliminary estimates are that as much as $5,000 additional proceeds were raised to assist in addressing local community needs.

We wish to thank the many food vendors including Wayne Copsey Sandgates Inn, Anita’s Cake Shop, Bailey’s Catering, Big Daddy’s Pork Rinds, Bear Creek BBQ, Bells of St. Mary’s Ice Cream, Scrumptious Entrees Catering, Lexington Park Lions and Ridge Lions Clubs. Also, many thanks to Chesapeake Custom Embroidery for t-shirts, etc. and Frank Trossbach for the John Deere and farm life antique display, petting zoo and pony rides.

Southern Maryland Blue Crabs mascot “Pinch” was on hand for pictures with the kids, and to give out free game tickets. Miss American Coed 2012 Miss Maryland Teen, Samantha Leigh Marshall, a recent graduate of Great Mills High School, began her statewide community service duties right here in her home county. Commissioner President Jack Russell gave his informative and entertaining “fins and claws” demonstration to a very attentive crowd. Non-stop live music was provided by Southbound, David Norris, and 25th Hour Band.

The St. Mary’s Rod and Classic Car Club featured 3 dozen cars. The Craft Guilds Shop of St. Mary’s brought several members, along with other arts and crafts vendors that filled two buildings.

Educational and children’s activities were provided by St. Mary’s River Watershed Association, Chesapeake Biological Lab, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, Golden Eye Seafood, Master Gardeners, Leonardtown Volunteer Rescue Squad, and Chesapeake Bay Field Lab. There was a moon bounce, face painting, tattoos, and several hands-on activities.

Electric vehicle shuttle service was provided by Jerome DuVal of Hillside Ride at Breton Bay. The Hollywood Volunteer Rescue Squad provided emergency services throught the day.

Many thanks to the many sponsors and patrons supporting the CrabFest. Sponsors include Southern Maryland Oil, Christine Wray and John Felicitas, Marrick Homes, Paragon Proper