The Chesapeake Country All-American Road is a living chronicle of a region defined by water and grit. For centuries, Maryland’s Eastern Shore has been shaped by the rivers and bays that served as the original highways for trade and culture. During Maryland 250, we invite you to see how this landscape dictated our history from the ancestral lands of Indigenous communities to the resilient traditions of modern-day watermen.
Celebrating America's 250th With Local History & Tradition.
Our Legacy
Local Stories, National Impact
Maryland’s role in the American story is both complex and essential. Along this byway, the Revolutionary era comes to life through local accounts of independence and identity. But the story doesn’t stop in 1776; the Eastern Shore is a gateway to narratives of abolition, civil rights, and maritime innovation. Through Maryland 250, we are elevating both the famous and the forgotten voices that give our nation its depth.
Our Partnerships
Maryland 250 is a collaborative effort. Partners like Lower Shore 250, Queen Anne's 250, Dorchester 250, Kent MD 250, and Talbot 250 are crafting unique experiences that honor their specific heritage. From interactive exhibits to heritage tours, these local programs form a cohesive network, encouraging visitors to cross county lines and discover the distinct character of every community along the way.
A Journey Worth Taking
Traveling this All-American Road is more than a scenic drive, it’s an invitation to connect. Whether you’re exploring a historic landmark, supporting a local business, or joining a seasonal event, the byway allows you to engage with history at your own pace. Come discover the stories that continue to shape Maryland’s future.
Events
3rd Friday: MD250 | July 17, 2026.
- 3rd Friday, Downtown Salisbury
- Join Salisbury for a special 3rd Friday: MD 250 as we celebrate 250 years of Maryland history right here in Downtown Salisbury!
- This month’s outdoor marketplace honors the rich heritage, culture, and traditions of the Old Line State as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of Maryland.
- MD 250 is a chance to reflect on Maryland’s past, celebrate its present, and look ahead to its future.
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Somerset County Fair | July 24-26, 2026.
- Somerset County Civic Center, 11828 Crisfield Lane, Princess Anne, MD, United States, 21853
- The Somerset County Fair is celebrating 250 Years of America for this year's fair.
- Check out the exciting new competitions and fun lined up!
- Learn more.
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Peach Festival | August 1, 2026. 10:00am - 3:00pm
- Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, 208 N. Main Street, Berlin MD.
- It's the Annual Peach Festival! Celebrate all things peach on the museum lawn with music, food, fresh peaches, kid's activities, and non-profit demonstrators. It's the peachiest time of the year!
- Free to enter.
- Learn more.
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America250 Quilt Show| September 27, 2026. 12:00pm - 4:00pm
- Poplar Hill Mansion, 117 Elizabeth St., Salisbury, MD 21801
- Come see beautiful quilts submitted by local and regional quilters that showcase each of the five categories, which represent a different American theme.
- This is a non-juried show and winners in each category and Best in Show are "people's choice" chosen by votes given at the show by visitors.
- Anyone is eligible to enter a quilt.
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Telling the Stories of Berlin | September 30, 2026. 4:00pm - 6:30pm
- Berlin Library, 13 Harrison Ave, Berlin, MD 21811
- Hear the stories of Berlin being recorded LIVE at the Berlin Library.
- Learn more.
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5th Annual Crisfield Heritage Festival | October 10, 2026. 10:00am - 4:00pm
- Somers Cove Marina, 715 Broadway, Crisfield, MD 21817
- Kid's activities, live entertainment, food, arts and craft vendors and live demonstrations - all showcasing the Chesapeake Bay culture of Crisfield - will be part of the festivities.
- The festival will be held behind the J.M. Tawes Historical Museum and Somers Cove Marina from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm.
- Learn more through the Crisfield Heritage Area
- Admission is free.
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Movie: National Treasure | October 11, 2026. 7:00pm
- Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, 208 N. Main Street, Berlin MD.
- Join the Taylor House Museum for a movie night at the museum.
- Film: National Treasure
- Learn more.
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Book Festival | October 17, 2026. 11:00am - 3:00pm
- Calvin B. Taylor House Museum, 208 N. Main Street, Berlin MD.
- Join the Taylor House Museum in a celebration of local storytelling and local writers.
- Learn more.
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Poplar Hill Mansion Yuletide Open House| December 6, 2026. 12:00pm - 4:00pm
- Poplar Hill Mansion, 117 Elizabeth St., Salisbury, MD 21801
- Come see PHM decorated for the Holiday Season.
- The theme is the Spirit of America. The Four Seasons Garden Club will have arrangements throughout the first floor and the main tree will be fully decorated in an historic Americana motif.
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Poplar Hill Mansion Lecture Series| Second Sunday of Every Month, 2026. 2:00pm
- Poplar Hill Mansion, 117 Elizabeth St., Salisbury, MD 21801
- Join PHM's curator and Corresponding Docent of the DAR Museum in Washington D.C. as they present a different lecture each month highlighting items from the collection of the DAR Museum and PHM.
- Free
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