HOLLYWOOD, Md. — The Southern Maryland Heritage Festival returned for its second year on May 17–18, transforming Historic Sotterley into a showcase of the region’s history, creativity and community spirit.
Visitors sampled local flavors, browsed handmade goods, and explored centuries of heritage under clear blue skies. The two-day event featured food trucks, funnel cake vendors, axe throwing, and demonstrations of pre-Revolutionary rope making — activities as varied as the counties it celebrates.
“This is what she and I do to unwind in the evening,” said Mindy McGaffins of J&M Creations, standing beside a table of resin art embedded with sand, shells and bits of coastal nostalgia. McGaffins, a full-time real estate agent, described crafting as a way for her and her business partner to relax while creating pieces that echo the region’s charm.
The festival is the brainchild of organizer Beth Joseph, who envisioned an event that would highlight the tri-county culture of Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s.
“The idea was to have an event that really captures the heritage of the tri-county area of Southern Maryland,” Joseph said. “My goal out of this was really to make sure that people know what all is happening in this region, so instead of going to Frederick or down to Williamsburg for a long weekend, they spend their time here.”
The grounds of Historic Sotterley offered more than just nostalgia. Local museums and artisans added depth to the experience with exhibits and merchandise reflecting Southern Maryland’s layered identity.
Budweiser shared space with regional craft vendors, offering modern touches alongside local flavor. Between bites of fried treats and sips of locally made beverages, attendees strolled past booths displaying handcrafted jewelry, home goods and glasswork, each piece telling a small story of the region.
With picture-perfect weather, classic rock by Copper Pennies as the backdrop and a focus on community roots, the Southern Maryland Heritage Festival continued to build on its mission: inviting locals to rediscover the richness of home and offering visitors a reason to linger a little longer in Southern Maryland.
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