Festival Highlights:
Every fall, Talbot County, Maryland comes alive for one of the Eastern Shore’s most beloved traditions — the Waterfowl Festival. Locals celebrate it like a hometown holiday (schools even close for the occasion!), and visitors travel from all over the Mid-Atlantic to join in the festivities. The event honors the region’s deep-rooted waterfowl heritage, celebrates wildlife art, and supports conservation for generations to come.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to the 2025 Waterfowl Festival in Easton and beyond.
Downtown Easton: The Heart of the Festival
Downtown Easton is where the magic happens — the streets are lined with art exhibits, live music, and activities for all ages. Wander through galleries filled with world-class wildlife artwork, shop local vendors, and grab a bite of Eastern Shore favorites.
The Tasting Pavilion offers regional beer, wine, and spirits, while kids can head to the Talbot County Free Library for family activities and a special visit from The Chesapeake Mermaid. Don’t forget to stop by Marshland Mercantile, the official festival store, to pick up exclusive merchandise.
Bay Street Ponds: Outdoor Fun for the Whole Family
At Bay Street Ponds, outdoor adventure takes center stage. Watch incredible retriever demonstrations hosted by the Talbot Retriever Club, where skilled dogs show off their impressive training.
Kids can try their hand at fishing with help from volunteers from the MidShore Chapter of the Maryland Coastal Conservation Association — complete with rods, bait, and a “first catch” certificate to take home.
Sportsman’s Pavilion: Gear, Grub & Great Entertainment
Outdoor enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Sportsman’s Pavilion at the Easton Elks Lodge. Browse the latest hunting and fishing gear from top vendors, then catch the always-popular Dock Dogs competitions. You can even register your own pup to compete!
Inside the lodge, warm up with local fare like crab cakes, oysters, BBQ, and soft crabs — all Eastern Shore staples.
Birds of Prey & Field Demos at Easton High School
Head over to Easton High School for a closer look at raptors in action. The Birds of Prey demonstrations feature hawks, owls, and falcons taking flight.
You’ll also find field dog demos, a Buy, Sell, Swap area, hands-on Soap Carving & Silhouette Painting, and the always-exciting World Waterfowl Championship Calling Contest — where the best callers in the country compete for top honors.
Art & Exhibits Throughout Easton
The Waterfowl Festival is as much about art as it is about the outdoors. Explore displays at the Avalon Theatre, the Armory, and Christ Church, where over 100 artists showcase stunning wildlife-inspired paintings, sculptures, carvings, and photography.
This year’s featured artist, Texas-based sculptor and painter Al Barker, will present his latest works. You can also stop by the Academy Art Museum for artist talks, workshops, and art auctions.
Waterfowl Heritage at The Country School
Discover the history of waterfowling at The Country School, where the Harry M. Walsh Waterfowling Collection brings the past to life. Exhibits include historic decoys, gunning boats, and antique equipment on loan from museums and private collections.
While you’re there, catch the prestigious Guyette & Deeter Auction, featuring more than 500 investment-grade decoys and artifacts — an annual event where sales regularly exceed $2 million.
Family Fun: Quackin’ Corners for Kids
Families with children will love the Quackin’ Corners scattered throughout the festival. Kids can collect stamps at each stop — and children under 10 get free admission with a paying adult. Some activities fill up fast, so be sure to pre-register when required.
Tickets & Transportation
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Tickets: $25 per person (valid all weekend). Admission includes free parking and festival bus service. Kids under 12 are free with a paying adult.
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Parking: Free for ticket holders! Park once and ride the festival’s complimentary shuttles to each location.
A Legacy of Conservation
Since its founding in 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly $6 million to support wildlife conservation, art, and education programs. Each ticket helps preserve the natural beauty and traditions of Maryland’s Eastern Shore — ensuring future generations can experience the wonder of waterfowl and the environment they call home.
Plan your getaway, grab your tickets, and get ready to celebrate a true Eastern Shore tradition — the 2025 Waterfowl Festival in Easton, Maryland!
