PORT REPUBLIC, Md. — Horses, rings and lances will take center stage this weekend as the 158th annual Calvert County Jousting Tournament and Bazaar rides back into Port Republic on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025.
The tournament, hosted on the grounds of Historic Christ Church, is one of Maryland’s longest-running summer traditions. Families can expect a full day of activities — from food and music to tours and the thrill of jousting, Maryland’s official state sport.
What’s Happening
Festivities begin at 10 a.m. with the church bazaar, featuring attic treasures, a country store, baked goods, books, toys and memorabilia. Children can enjoy pony rides, face painting, a balloon artist and more. Refreshments will be available, and live music will be performed by the Port Tobacco Pickers. Tours of Historic Christ Church run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., while the Port Republic One-Room Schoolhouse is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
At noon, riders of all ages and skill levels will line up for the jousting tournament. Competing for cash prizes and bragging rights, participants will guide their horses down the track, aiming lances at suspended rings as small as one-quarter inch. Unlike medieval jousts, Maryland’s style emphasizes precision and horsemanship over combat.
Music lovers can step inside the church between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. for a variety of organ concerts in the air-conditioned sanctuary.
By mid-afternoon, the parish hall supper will serve family-style meals from 2 to 6 p.m. Plates include deviled crab, fried chicken, baked ham, assorted sides, dessert and drinks for $28 for adults and $12 for children ages 6 to 12. Children under 6 eat free with a paying adult. Note: Children’s plates do not include crab. For those on the go, boxed suppers with the same menu are available from noon to 6 p.m.
History of Jousting in Maryland
Jousting tournaments in Southern Maryland date back to colonial times and have been held in Port Republic for more than 150 years. The sport came from English traditions but evolved in Maryland to emphasize accuracy, horsemanship and speed.
In 1962, Maryland officially named jousting its state sport, becoming the first state in the nation to designate one. Today, tournaments like the Calvert County Jousting Tournament keep the heritage alive, drawing new generations of riders and fans.
Event Details
When: Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, beginning at 10 a.m.
Where: Historic Christ Church, 3100 Broomes Island Road, Port Republic, Md.
Admission: Free admission and parking (donations gratefully accepted). Meals are available for purchase.
For more information, visit www.christchurchcalvert.org.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
