SOUTHERN MARYLAND — From live sharks and hands-on archaeology to historic workshops and waterfront cruises, museums throughout Southern Maryland are offering a variety of educational and family-friendly events this summer.
Here’s a look at upcoming events organized by museum.
Calvert Marine Museum — Solomons
The Calvert Marine Museum is preparing for one of its busiest summers, featuring sharks, concerts, cruises and family activities.
SHARKFEST!
July 11, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The museum’s annual Sharkfest returns with live sharks, educational exhibits and fossil activities. Visitors will have opportunities to learn about shark biology and conservation while viewing sharks up close. Museum officials say the live shark exhibits will once again be featured indoors this year.
Family Fun Fridays
July 17
Designed for children ages 5-12 and their families, the museum’s summer Family Fun Friday programs include hands-on activities, crafts and special early access to the museum before regular opening hours.
William B. Tennison Public Cruises
The museum continues its seasonal cruises aboard the historic William B. Tennison, offering visitors opportunities to experience the Patuxent River and Solomons Harbor from the water, including a special Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise and a Kids Pirate Cruise on Sept. 26, 2026. Click here to view the full River Cruise Schedule – 2026.
Waterside Music Series
The museum’s waterfront concert venue will host several nationally known acts this summer.
- Warren Zeiders — July 24
- Brothers Osborne — Aug. 22
The concert series supports museum education and preservation programs.
Historic St. Mary’s City — St. Mary’s City
Historic St. Mary’s City continues to offer immersive experiences that allow visitors to explore Maryland’s first capital through archaeology, living history and hands-on programs.
DIG! St. Mary’s Fort Excavation Experience
Participants work alongside professional archaeologists at the St. Mary’s Fort excavation site, screening soil and helping uncover artifacts connected to Maryland’s earliest colonial settlement.
Upcoming dates include:
- July 18
- Sept. 12
- Sept. 26
The full-day program includes instruction, lunch and a keepsake from the experience.
Step Into the Story
June 26 and July 3
This interactive storytime program for young children combines books, activities and colonial history at the Godiah Spray Tobacco Plantation.
Summer Saturday Tours
Held throughout the summer, these guided tours explore archaeology, landscapes and the history of Maryland’s first capital.
Tours are offered weekly during the summer season.
Season’s Eatings: Pickling Workshop
Aug. 1
Visitors can learn historical food preservation techniques and colonial cooking practices through this hands-on workshop.
Other Museums to Check Out This Summer!
Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum — Calvert County
Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum plans to host its annual Patuxent River Wade-In later this summer, celebrating the health and history of the Patuxent River while highlighting environmental stewardship and local heritage.
St. Clement’s Island Museum — Coltons Point
The museum continues to offer its popular Dinner and a Cruise experiences, allowing guests to combine local history with scenic excursions on the Potomac River.
Piney Point Lighthouse Museum — Piney Point
The museum is expected to host activities surrounding National Lighthouse Day, offering visitors opportunities to explore one of Maryland’s oldest lighthouse sites.
Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center — Solomons
Summer programming includes family nature walks, outdoor activities and seasonal educational programs as part of the garden’s annual summer offerings.
As tourism season begins, local museums are inviting residents and visitors to explore Southern Maryland’s maritime heritage, archaeology, natural history and culture through exhibits, workshops and family events.
Visitors are encouraged to check individual museum websites for registration information, admission fees and schedule updates before attending.
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