One of the only festivals in the DMV area dedicated to the conservation of local aquatic avians, the Waterfowl Festival in Easton, Maryland, is a three-day event taking place this November that raises funds to protect local wildlife and the coastal ecosystem that they call home.
The festival, which attracts an annual crowd of around 25,000 attendees, features a long list of unique attractions, well-spirited competitions, and hundreds of artists & vendors!
What is the Easton Waterfowl Festival?
Located in the charming small town of Easton, Maryland, just a 1.5-hour drive from the District, the Waterfowl Festival is an annual event that draws a crowd of around 25,000 people every fall.
The event celebrates the winged wildlife that can be found along the Mid-Atlantic coastline by promoting the protection of their habitat and raising funds for conservation.
Dating back to 1971, the festival’s rich history has become synonymous with the town of Easton, becoming one of the key events driving the local economy each year.
While the nature of the event draws crowds of outdoorsmen, the festival itself showcases an immense appreciation for these birds, serving as one of the premier education opportunities about the local wildlife, their ecosystem, and what needs to be done to ensure a sustainable future.
What to expect at the Easton Waterfowl Festival?
Taking place over 3 days every November, this year, it will take place November 14-16.
The festival offers visitors a chance to learn about and discover local wildlife, nature, art, and heritage, all while being able to enjoy tasty food and family-friendly activities!
Several fun attractions are fit for young and old audiences alike!
Here are a few you can expect at the festival this year:
- A kid’s fishing derby
- Waterdog distance jump competition
- Bird calling clinics
- The World Waterfowl Championship Calling Contest
- Birds of Prey displays, including iconic raptors like eagles, owls, and more.
- Soap carving
- Miniature decoy painting
- Merch stands
As far as tickets to enter the festival, they can be purchased online for only $25 per person!
Waterfowl Festival event schedule
On the first day, Friday, November 14th, festivities run from 10 am to 5 pm.
Here are some of the key events:
- 8:30 – 10 am – Community Impact Breakfast
- 10 am – 4 pm – Kids Fishing Derby
- 11 am, 1 pm, & 3 pm – Retriever demonstrations
- 11 am, 2 pm – Raptor demonstration
- 11:30 am, 1 pm, & 3 pm – Dock Dogs Big Air contest
- 11 am, 1 pm – Chesapeake Mermaid
- 4 – 7 pm – Guyette & Deeter Auction
On the second day, Saturday, November 15th, festivities run from 10 am to 5 pm.
Here are some of the key events:
- 10 am – 4 pm – Kids Fishing Derby
- 10:30 am, 2:30 pm – Raptor Display
- 11 am, 12 pm, 4:30 pm – Dock Dogs Big Air contest
- 11 am, 1 pm – Chesapeake Mermaid
- 11 am – 12 pm – Kids Calling Clinic (Ducks @ 11 am & Goose @ 11:30 am)
- 2 pm – Dock Dogs Extreme Vertical contest
On the final day, Sunday, November 16th, festivities run from 10 am to 4 pm.
Here are some of the key events:
- 8:30 am, 10:30 am, 3 pm – Dock Dogs Big Air contest
- 10 am – 4 pm – Kids Fishing Derby
- 11 am, 1 pm – The Chesapeake Mermaid
- 1 pm – Dock Dogs Speed Retrievers contest