Mid-Atlantic Small Craft Festival & Maritime Model Expo

For the 43rd year, small craft enthusiasts will bring their unique boats to the Eastern Shore to celebrate this fall tradition.

The Mid-Atlantic Small Craft Festival & Maritime Model Expo wil take place Friday to Sunday, October 2-4, 2026 at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St Michaels, Maryland.

What to expect

The Mid-Atlantic Small Craft Festival is a family friendly event recognizing the craftsmanship and innovation represented in small vessels. Over three days, various activities, workshops, demonstrations, and gatherings will be held on the CBMM campus.

Small boat owners can register for a fee online or onsite on Friday, October 2, starting at 2 p.m.

Children can participate in the activities by building and decorating their own model boat, make and race their own cardboard boat, and join a scavenger hunt. Children aged five and under can enjoy free admission to the festival.

On Saturday night, festival goers can celebrate the annual awards ceremony, dine at a local food truck, and afterwards hear from the Keynote Speaker Capt. Doug Oeller, who has circumnavigated the lower 48 states.

Tickets

Visitors can explore the festival with the purchase of a general admission ticket to the museum, CBMM members get free admission. Festival guests are welcome to enjoy the indoor and outdoor exhibits present on the museum’s campus.

Make a Weekend of It

If you’re coming in for the weekend, there are a few lodging options within walking distance to the festival. The Parsonage Inn and The Wildset are less than a 10-minute walk. Both properties have on site bicycles available for guests (availability may be limited). The Inn at Perry Cabin, Log Canoe Inn, and Old Brick Inn are within a 10-20 minute walk, and some have bicycles or local shuttle transportation.

Check out our guide on the best places to stay in St. Michaels. A variety of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rental properties are available throughout Talbot County to meet the needs of your travel party.

Accessibility & Visitor Tips

The festival takes place outdoors in the fall at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum along the Miles River, so consider bringing extra layers. Parking is available at the museum’s campus and in St Michaels.