Spring Festivals Bloom Across the Chesapeake

From chocolate crawls to poetry slams, the region celebrates the season with a variety of family-friendly events.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

As the weather warms up in March, the Chesapeake region is hosting a variety of spring festivals and events to welcome the new season. From a chocolate-filled crawl in St. Michaels to a poetry festival in Chestertown, there are plenty of ways for families to get out and enjoy the springtime festivities across Maryland.

Why it matters

These annual spring events are a cherished tradition in the Chesapeake, drawing locals and visitors alike to celebrate the region's culture, cuisine, and community. They provide opportunities for people of all ages to come together, experience local arts and entertainment, and embrace the seasonal transition.

The details

The lineup of spring events kicks off on March 7 with the St. Michaels ChocolateFest, where attendees can explore the town's bakeries and chocolatiers on a 'Chocolate Crawl.' Other highlights include a Holi-themed story time and color walk in Crownsville on March 13, the Easton St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 17, a week-long Maryland Day celebration across the Chesapeake Crossroads Heritage Area from March 19-25, and the 17th Annual Kent County Poetry Festival in Chestertown from March 27-29.

  • The St. Michaels ChocolateFest takes place on March 7, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • The Holi Storytime and Color Walk is scheduled for March 13, 2026 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
  • The Easton St. Patrick's Day Parade is set for March 17, 2026 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
  • The Maryland Day Celebration 2026 will run from March 19-25 at locations around the Chesapeake Crossroads Heritage Area.
  • The 17th Annual Kent County Poetry Festival is scheduled for March 27-29, 2026 in Chestertown.

The players

St. Michaels ChocolateFest

An annual event in the town of St. Michaels, Maryland featuring a 'Chocolate Crawl' where visitors can sample treats from local bakeries and chocolatiers, as well as kid-friendly activities.

Chesapeake Crossroads Heritage Area

A region in Maryland hosting a week-long celebration of Maryland Day with events at various participating locations including the Chesapeake Children's Museum, Annapolis Maritime Museum, and Chesapeake Arts Center.

Jericho Brown

The featured poet at the 17th Annual Kent County Poetry Festival in Chestertown, Maryland. Jericho Brown is a Pulitzer Prize winner.

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The takeaway

From indulging in chocolate treats to immersing in the literary arts, the Chesapeake region offers a diverse array of springtime festivities that cater to all interests and age groups. These events not only showcase the area's vibrant culture, but also bring the community together to welcome the new season with open arms.