When the sun is blazing and the pavement is hot, people in the Annapolis & Chesapeake Bay region take to the water by sailboat, kayak, paddle board-you name it. Both tourists and locals can be found in abundance on the water in August. For those who like to keep their feet on the ground, there is lots of fun traipsing about to be had in the historic city of Annapolis and maritime villages of the Annapolis Countryside. Wherever you find yourself finishing off the summer this August, Annapolis is host to events and activities for every summer bucket-list.

Rotary Club of Annapolis Annual Crab Feast

Explore Annapolis in August

On Friday, August 2nd, crustacean lovers will feast on the Chesapeake Bay’s bounty at Annual Rotary Club of Annapolis Crab Feast, an all-you-can-eat and drink event that is arguably the largest crab feast in the world. Nearly 2,500 individuals are expected to finish off 345 bushels of #1 crabs (that's nearly 40,000 of the big ones!), 3,400 ears of corn, 100 gallons of crab soup, 1,800 hot dogs, 150 pounds of beef barbeque, and hundreds of gallons of beer and soft drinks. As was the case last year, the local environmental group, Annapolis Green, is working with the Rotary Club of Annapolis to compost the crabs and other food remnants and utensils. It’s anticipated that 20,000 pounds of food waste will be collected. About two months following the feast, the watermelon rinds, corn cobs, brown paper, and crab shell bits will have turned into compost used to benefit area gardens. Plastic will be collected as well – moving the event ever closer to its goal of sending nothing to the landfill. Proceeds of the Crab Feast benefit the local community and cultural organizations. The event begins at 5 pm and tickets are only $70 if your order ahead of time!

First Sunday Arts Festival

On Sunday, August 4th from 11am to 5pm, enjoy live entertainment and the works of 100 local and regional artists at First Sunday Arts Festival as you stroll along the first block of West Street and Calvert Street next to Whitmore parking garage. Local restaurants set up outside cafes that are perfect for people watching and an afternoon bite to eat. Free parking for the family-friendly event is available at the state parking garage on the corner of Calvert and Bladen Streets. And what’s better than free admission?! 

Mamma Mia! at Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre

Explore Annapolis in August

Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre is performing the classic, Mamma Mia! ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. A large cast, non-stop laughs, and explosive dance numbers combine to make Mamma Mia! a guaranteed smash hit for any theatre. A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Rated PG13.

Yoga in the Garden

Yoga in the Garden is a chance to press pause. A moment to breathe. An opportunity to be outside together, as a community for renewal. Intended for all, welcome to yoga newcomers and free! Brought to you by Nature Sacred a non-profit committed to improving health through urban green space. All you need is a mat and water! Dedicated to Art for All, Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts is the community’s arts center, providing lifelong, accessible engagement in the arts. Maryland Hall offers art classes for all ages, outreach programs, several galleries with rotating exhibits, a 725-seat theatre and a 200-seat community theater. 

Maryland Rennaissance Festival

Explore Annapolis in August

The largest of its kind in eastern North America and the second-largest Renaissance Festival in the Country is celebrating its 43rd season at Revel Grove. Travel back in time as you immerse yourself in the culture of a 16th-century English village, complete with King Henry VIII and his court. The festival includes 250+ entertainers, including jugglers, magicians, musicians, comedians, artists and more, ten stages, a 3,000 seat jousting arena, 130 craft shops, 42 food and beverage emporiums, games, attractions - all on a 25-acre site that includes 80 acres of complimentary parking. Let merriment abound! 

Take advantage of our lodging options for all these events on our Annapolis Hotel page. Plus, located just 30 minutes from Annapolis and 10 minutes to Baltimore, check out, TheHotelsAtBWI.com. Be sure to put exploring Annapolis in August on your radar!