Patuxent River Appreciation Days (PRAD) is celebrating its 36th year on October 12 and 13 at the Calvert Marine Museum. Starting in 1978, PRAD is one of the longest running festivals in Southern Maryland. This year promises two days of free family fun for all ages from 10:00am to 5:00pm. During PRAD, admission to the museum will be free. Additional parking will be provided across the street from the museum at no additional cost. PRAD is made possible through the generous support of the Calvert County Board of Commissioners.
The arts and craft show with over thirty artists and local food vendors will be located in the museum’s parking lot on both days of the festival. The two music stages will host live performances including RockFish, Country Memories, Pond Scum, Celtic ConFusion and many more. Children can build their own toy boats while the whole family can enjoy free cruises aboard the Wm. B. Tennison, Nathan of Dorchester, and Dee of St. Mary’s. You will also be able to row in canoes in the boat basin throughout the weekend.
The “Green Village” features scores of non-profit groups that celebrate the river in a wide variety of ways. There, you will be able to see exhibits, demonstrations, displays, and educational activities about green products, recycling, oyster restoration, native plants, wildlife, restoration efforts, live animals, and more.
Back by popular demand is “Bounty of the Patuxent.” On Saturday, local wineries will be offering wine tasting in the Corbin Pavilion. Local produce will be for sale as well as soaps, candles, candy, locally formed oysters, and other homemade items.
The annual PRAD Parade with a one mile route along Solomons Island Road will begin Sunday at 2:00pm. Non-profit organizations are welcome to join the parade with cash prizes offered for best float entries. To enter your float or organization, contact Randy Geck at rgeck@xecu.net.
For more information about PRAD, including a complete schedule of events, visit http://www.pradinc.org, or call 410-326-2042, ext. 41.
The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Effective July 1, 2013, admission is $9.00 for adults, $7.00 for seniors and military with valid I.D., and $4.00 for children ages 5 – 12; children under 5 and museum members are always admitted free. For more information about the museum, upcoming events, or membership, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com or call 410-326-2042. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
