9th Annual Watermen's Appreciation Day, Crabs & Boat Docking Contest

On Sunday, August 12, 2018, the 9th annual Watermen’s Appreciation Day comes to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Md., featuring a spirited boat docking contest, steamed crabs and other regional food, live music, beer, boat rides, family activities, and more. The fundraising event is organized by CBMM in cooperation with the Talbot Watermen Association, with proceeds benefiting both organizations.
 
“Watermen’s Day is an annual favorite among locals and guests alike,” said CBMM President Kristen Greenaway. “You can meet many of the watermen who work to bring seafood to tables across the region, while having a great time celebrating the Chesapeake with us in such an incredibly authentic way.”
 
Beginning at 11:00 a.m., the event’s “watermen’s rodeo” boat docking contest returns to the Miles River to its expanded location under CBMM's 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse. Bleacher seating will be provided for spectators to the contest.

The opportunity to meet the Chesapeake’s watermen, along with local steamed crabs, beer, and other food and beverages continue to highlight the waterfront festival.
 
Starting at noon, the day’s catch of steamed crabs—served by watermen—will be available for purchase, in addition to beer, water, soda, hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, and more. Steamed crabs will be sold by the dozen, with pricing set by July 28 and posted at cbmm.org. 

 Also beginning at noon, live music with Bird Dog and the Road Kings from the historic Tolchester Beach Bandstand will have people tapping their toes and dancing along CBMM’s waterfront.
 
Children and families can enjoy games and activities offered throughout the day. Later in the day, children’s on-the-water activities include a Pot Pie skiff rowing competition, with prizes awarded.

For safety reasons, non-service dogs need to be kept home during CBMM festivals, including Watermen’s Appreciation Day. Leashed dogs are only permitted on CBMM’s campus during regular operating hours. Carry-on alcohol from dock or land is prohibited.