MECHANICSVILLE, Md. – The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC), a division of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, is thrilled to announce that tickets are now officially on sale for the highly anticipated Buy Local Challenge 2026 Celebration Event.
This lively, family-friendly evening showcases Maryland’s thriving farms, talented local producers, and vibrant arts and crafts scene. The community is invited to gather on Monday, July 27, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Lyon Family Farms, located at 39010 Lyon Lane, Mechanicsville, in St. Mary’s County, rain or shine!
Transforming into a bustling open-air farmers market, the celebration will feature over 30 vendors offering a true taste of Maryland’s peak summer bounty. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to meet and shop directly with regional makers, agricultural producers, and artisans.
The diverse marketplace highlights farm-raised delights including local meats, dairy products, fresh fruits, seasonal vegetables, and beautiful cut flowers. Beyond fresh agricultural produce, guests can browse local specialties like fresh Maryland oysters, baked goods, artisanal jams, pickles, and golden honey, alongside handcrafted farm soaps, delightful scents, and local arts and crafts. A standout feature of the night includes the chance to sip and savor exceptional selections from Maryland’s finest wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries.
Admission tickets are priced at an accessible $5 per person, and children aged six and under are admitted free of charge. Tickets must be purchased online, with registration remaining open until 4:00 p.m. on the day of the event. Each paid admission ticket serves as an all-access pass to a rich schedule of family activities.
Included with the ticket price are magnificent carriage rides with the iconic Suttler Post Farm Clydesdales, children’s pony rides provided by ‘Mary’s Go Round,’ live musical entertainment, and a free raffle entry for a chance to win generous prizes donated directly by the event vendors.
Furthermore, the first 900 paid ticket holders (pages seven and up) will receive a complimentary, high-quality insulated shopping tote bag complete with complimentary ice to keep their farm-fresh purchases perfectly chilled. Adults with a paid admission will also receive one complimentary oyster tasting, available while supplies last.
Event Summary Details:
- Date: Monday, July 27, 2026
- Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. EDT (Online ticket sales close at 4:00 p.m. on event day)
- Location: Lyon Family Farms, 39010 Lyon Lane, Mechanicsville, MD 20659 (St. Mary’s County)
- Admission: $5 per person; children aged 6 and under are free.
Important Event Guidelines: Please note that individual meals, full drinks, and alcoholic beverages are not included with the standard gate admission; attendees are highly encouraged to bring methods of payment to directly support the wonderful local vendors and food trucks onsite. In alignment with supporting these local businesses, outside food and alcohol are strictly prohibited. Strollers and “little red wagons” are warmly welcomed to help transport family members and vendor purchases, though picnic blankets and lawn chairs are discouraged due to limited space. To ensure the safety and comfort of all guests, only certified service animals are permitted on the farm property. Ample on-site grass parking is available, and both parking and restroom facilities are fully ADA accessible. Attendees must bring either a printed ticket or their email confirmation to be scanned via digital QR code at the entrance gate.
For more information, general inquiries, or to secure your tickets before they sell out, please contact the organizers via email at info@smadc.com or by calling 240-528-8850, Extension 327. Ticketing links are available at the official website: www.buylocalchallenge.com.
Join us for a spectacular evening celebrating Maryland’s local flavors, unique arts, and vibrant agricultural community spirit!
Link to Tickets & Event Details