AVENUE, Md. — Summer means pool days, birthday parties, vacations and keeping kids entertained, leaving parents little time to relax themselves. On July 25, one Southern Maryland mother-daughter team hopes to give adults permission to press pause — if only for an evening.
Sherry Coombs, owner of Sippin Dirty Refreshments, and her daughter, Shandi Ringley, are hosting the first-ever Bad Parent Night at Barefoot Farms in Avenue. The event runs from 2 to 8 p.m. and promises live music, nearly 50 local vendors, food, games and a laid-back atmosphere designed specifically for adults.
Despite the tongue-in-cheek name, organizers say the event isn’t about being a “bad parent” at all.
Creating Time For Adults
Coombs said the inspiration came after noticing there weren’t many opportunities locally where adults could enjoy themselves while also supporting small businesses.
“We realized that there aren’t many local events where you can do everything you never seem to have time for in one place,” Coombs said. “We wanted to create a judgment-free night where parents can leave the kids at home and reconnect with their partners and friends, support local businesses and just enjoy being an adult for a few hours.”
The event’s slogan, “Leave the Guilt at the Gate,” reflects that philosophy.
“It means giving yourself grace to take a break and enjoy a night out that’s just for you,” she said. “As parents, we spend so much time taking care of others that we sometimes forget we’re allowed to have fun, too. It’s not about being a ‘bad parent’ — it’s about taking time for yourself, making memories and being able to do the things you never seem to find the time to do.”
A Family Business With A Community Focus
Sippin Dirty Refreshments is a family-owned dirty drink business serving Southern Maryland and the surrounding region.
“I’m Sherry, owner of Sippin Dirty Refreshments. My daughter, Shandi, is our talented mixologist,” Coombs said. “We’re a family-owned and operated dirty drink business serving Southern Maryland and surrounding areas with fun, customizable drinks that are full of flavor.”
As a mother-daughter team, they wanted to create something different for the 7th District.
Rather than another family-centered event, they envisioned an evening where adults could relax, unwind and connect with others in the community without the usual day-to-day responsibilities.
More Than Just A Vendor Event
Bad Parent Night will feature nearly 50 local small businesses, live music by Sidetracked, food vendors, dirty drinks, shopping, fishing, horseshoes, cornhole, paintball, a book exchange and more.
According to Coombs, every aspect of the event was carefully planned to offer something for everyone.
“We focused on creating an experience where there was something for everybody,” she said. “We carefully chose vendors, food options and entertainment that would create a well-rounded experience and give our guests plenty to see, do and enjoy throughout the evening.”
She added that the atmosphere is what excites organizers the most.
“We’re most excited for our guests to experience the atmosphere we’ve worked so hard to create. With nearly 50 local small businesses, live music, great food and fun activities all coming together at Barefoot Farms, we hope people walk away saying, ‘We need more events like that!'”
The choice of venue was equally intentional.
Coombs said Barefoot Farms’ relaxed atmosphere and commitment to supporting local businesses made it the perfect place to host the inaugural event.
Breaking The Ice — One Puzzle Piece At A Time
Admission is $10 per vehicle, but organizers have added an interactive twist designed to encourage guests to meet someone new.
Each attendee will receive a puzzle piece upon entering the event. Throughout the afternoon and evening, participants are challenged to find the person holding the matching piece, creating an easy and fun conversation starter among attendees.
Organizers say the activity perfectly reflects the event’s goal of helping people build new friendships while strengthening community connections.
Southern Maryland Businesses Show Strong Support
The response from vendors and the community has exceeded expectations.
“Amazing!” Coombs said. “The excitement and support we have received from local small businesses who are eager to be a part of something new and different has been beyond what we imagined.”
She added that the enthusiasm from attendees has reinforced how supportive the Southern Maryland community can be.
Looking Toward The Future
If all goes as planned, Bad Parent Night could become an annual tradition.
“Yes! We would love for Bad Parent Night to become an annual tradition in Southern Maryland,” Coombs said. “Seeing how excited people are for this event has made us even more excited for what’s ahead.”
She hinted that organizers may already be planning another event later this year.
“We might have a part two planned for December, but we’ll save those details for a later announcement.”
What To Know Before You Go
Bad Parent Night will take place Saturday, July 25, from 2 to 8 p.m. at Barefoot Farms in Avenue, MD. The event will be held rain or shine, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets or anything else that will help them get comfortable while enjoying the afternoon and evening.
For anyone on the fence about attending, Coombs has a simple message.
“Take the chance and come see what all the hype is about,” she said. “You don’t have to have a plan — just come ready to enjoy an evening where you can step away from the everyday responsibilities and have fun. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did.”
She also expressed appreciation for everyone who helped bring the event to life.
“We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us, partnered with us and believed in this event. We cannot wait to welcome everyone through the gate.”
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