BENEDICT, Md. – The eighth annual Southern Maryland Sunflower Festival returns to Serenity Farm in Benedict, Maryland, on Saturday, Sept. 5, and Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., for one of the region’s largest family-friendly festivals celebrating agriculture, heritage, art, and community.
Hosted by the Farm Heritage Conservancy, the festival features acres of vibrant sunflowers, live music, local artisans and food vendors, hayrides, a USDA-certified walk-through petting pen, and interactive activities for all ages. Photo opportunities galore! In celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary, this year’s festival will also expand its Maryland 250 programming with a new pavilion, historical exhibits and performances.
WHAT:
- Sunflowers: Wander through six acres of sunflowers. Ticket price includes all-you-can-pick sunflowers (bring your own shears) and access to a build-your-own-bouquet station.
- Maryland 250 Features: New this year, the festival will feature a “250th Pavilion” highlighting regional history and heritage. The pavilion will be a gathering spot to enjoy food from vendors and entertainment. Visitors can also view a special 250th quilt display and enjoy historical music performances from David and Ginger Hildebrand.
- En Plein Air Artists: Artists will paint live on-site on Friday before the festival begins, with completed works displayed and available for purchase during the weekend. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Farm Heritage Conservancy.
- Live Music and Entertainment: Festivalgoers can enjoy live music performances throughout the weekend, along with 20-minute interactive historical theater presentations celebrating Southern Maryland’s history and culture.
- Family Activities: Hayrides, face painting, and the region’s only USDA-certified walk-through petting pen offer interactive fun for children and families.
- Food and Artisan Vendors: Enjoy delicious food from local vendors and browse unique handcrafted goods from Southern Maryland artisans. (Note: No outside food is permitted.)
- Dog Friendly: Leashed dogs are welcome.
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 5 and Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
COST: $12 online ticket price (admission will be $15 at the gate). Entry is free for children 7 and under. Online ticket sales end before midnight Friday, Sept. 4. Tickets include all activities except food, beverage, and artisan vendors.
WHERE: Serenity Farm, 6932 Serenity Farm Road, Benedict, MD 20612 Google Map
PHOTOGRAPHERS: Professional and amateur photographers can schedule pre-paid access to the sunflower fields for private sessions at $100 per hour. Please call (301) 274-3829, extension 4, to book your session in advance.
MORE INFORMATION: The Southern Maryland Sunflower Festival is supported by the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area and the Rural Maryland Council and serves as a regional event representing Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s counties.
Festival proceeds also help support regional nonprofits and charities with similar missions focused on preservation, education, conservation, and community enrichment, including local food banks, African American heritage organizations, and native plant nonprofits.
For additional details and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.
