ST. MARY’S COUNTY, Md. — As thousands of visitors prepare to arrive for the 2026 NAS Patuxent River Air Show, community leaders have launched a new initiative designed to help guests experience far more than the sights and sounds overhead.
The newly released Air Show Passport serves as a countywide guide highlighting local restaurants, shops, attractions, museums, lodging options and special promotions available during Air Show Week, June 16-21. Developed through a collaboration between the St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce, Visit St. Mary’s and local businesses, the passport encourages visitors to explore the county while supporting the local economy.
The publication embraces the theme, “Where History Runs Deep and the Navy Flies High,” blending St. Mary’s County’s rich colonial heritage with its longstanding connection to naval aviation and defense innovation.
Download the digital passport below:
A Celebration Of 250 Years Of Freedom
This year’s air show carries special significance as the nation marks 250 years of American independence.
Promotional materials featured throughout the passport highlight the milestone alongside imagery of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, historic sailing vessels, local landmarks and waterfront scenery that have become synonymous with Southern Maryland.
Visitors are invited to explore all three regions of St. Mary’s County while attending one of the area’s largest events, discovering everything from waterfront dining and historic sites to locally owned boutiques and family-friendly attractions.
“Three Regions. One Community.” serves as a recurring message throughout the publication, emphasizing the county’s diverse offerings from north to south.
Passport Offers Savings At Dozens Of Local Businesses
The passport includes exclusive discounts and special offers available to anyone who presents either their 2026 Air Show ticket or the passport itself.
Participating businesses span a wide variety of industries, including:
Restaurants and Cafés
Local eateries offering promotions include:
Offers range from percentage discounts to complimentary menu items and special family promotions.
Shopping and Local Finds
Visitors looking to browse local retailers can find special savings at:
The passport notes that St. Mary’s County’s shopping scene stretches from historic downtown Leonardtown to rural country stores and specialty boutiques offering products unique to Southern Maryland.
Entertainment and Experiences
Air show guests can also take advantage of discounts and promotions at several attractions, including:
In addition, The Patuxent Partnership is offering special pricing for its June 18 Drone Dominance Day event, “Evolving Warfare: Rise of the Drones,” held at the AeroPark SMART Building.
Historic Sites Showcase Maryland’s First Capital
The passport places a strong emphasis on the county’s historic significance, reminding visitors that St. Mary’s City, founded in 1634, served as Maryland’s first capital and was among the earliest English settlements in North America.
Featured historical destinations include:
Several attractions are offering free admission, discounted merchandise or special programming during Air Show Week.
The guide also highlights the county’s extensive maritime history, colonial heritage and military legacy, encouraging visitors to explore beyond the flight line.
Spotlight On Local Agriculture And Specialty Businesses
Another section of the passport celebrates St. Mary’s County’s agricultural roots and growing small-business community.
Participating specialty businesses include:
The publication notes that local wineries, distilleries, artisans and entrepreneurs continue to create unique experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Lodging And Visitor Resources
For guests traveling from outside the region, the passport provides lodging information and visitor resources.
The guide notes that St. Mary’s County boasts more than 500 miles of shoreline along the Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River and St. Mary’s River, making it one of Maryland’s most scenic destinations.
Avid by IHG in California is offering a special air show lodging rate for stays booked June 19-21, while Visit St. Mary’s provides downloadable visitor guides and additional tourism information.
Encouraging Visitors To Explore Beyond The Air Show
Organizers say the passport is designed to help visitors make the most of their time in Southern Maryland by encouraging them to dine locally, shop locally and experience the community’s history and culture.
The guide outlines a simple four-step process:
- Visit participating businesses.
- Present the Air Show Passport.
- Redeem special offers.
- Create lasting memories throughout St. Mary’s County.
The initiative reflects a broader effort by local tourism, business and community leaders to turn Air Show Week into a countywide celebration that benefits residents, visitors and small businesses alike.
As aircraft fill the skies over NAS Patuxent River this June, organizers hope guests will also discover the waterfront views, historic landmarks, family-owned businesses and welcoming communities that make St. Mary’s County a destination worth exploring long after the final performance ends.
Information Box
2026 NAS Patuxent River Air Show
Dates: June 20-21, 2026
Air Show Week: June 16-21, 2026
Theme: Where History Runs Deep and the Navy Flies High
Passport Benefits:
- Dining discounts
- Shopping promotions
- Attraction savings
- Museum and historic site offers
- Lodging specials
- Entertainment discounts
Presented in Partnership With:
- St. Mary’s County Chamber of Commerce
- Visit St. Mary’s
- Participating businesses and attractions
Passport Coordinator: Janelle Gardiner, JAG Consulting LLC
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