On The Yard

There’s no time like springtime on the Yard. As the flowers and plants bloom back to life, the Noon Meal Formation starts up again, spring sports and activities flourish, and the streets of Annapolis hum with midshipmen. From Memorial Hall to the Annapolis Harbor, spring brings new activity and excitement.

So what’s going on in Annapolis this spring? Plenty, as it turns out. If you’ve been thinking about visiting this beautiful bricked seascape, now is the perfect time to plan a little getaway. From cultural, to historic, to food-focused fun, there’s enough to fill the whole spring with the unique flavor of Annapolis and the Yard. There is SO MUCH going on, so we’re picking a small sampling. Here are some of our favorite goings-on to kick off the early part of spring:

April 3rd
The Erik S. Kristensen Memorial Lecture—Ambassador Roger D. Carstens

McDowell Great Hall, St. John’s Annapolis Campus

60 College Ave, Annapolis, MD 21401

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Presented by St. John’s College, this special talk features Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, Ambassador Roger D. Carstens, who will deliver the Erik S. Kristensen Memorial Lecture. The event is open and free to the public. Seating is based on a first-come, first-served basis.

April 4th - 7th

The 12th Annual Annapolis Film Festival 

107 Annapolis Street — Suite J

Annapolis, MD 21401

info@annapolisfilmfestival.com

Various Times

This cherished event is more than a festival. According to the organizers, it’s “not just a showcase of cinema; it's a powerful catalyst for change, a mirror that reflects our world, and our shared humanity…. It fosters empathy, sparks dialogue, and empowers all of us to make a difference.” One must-see film is Unfurling the World, which chronicles the adventures of Irving and Electa Johnson, who sailed to rarely visited places like Easter Island and Bali from 1933-1956 with a crew of young, inexperienced sailors aboard two schooners, both named Yankee. Narrated by world-class sailor and film producer, Gary Jobson, it features fascinating original footage shot by Captain Johnson and the Yankee crew. They made maritime history when they raised the anchor of the HMS Bounty on Pitcairn Islands. Come experience these magnificent travels to other lands, from the sea-faring place where adventures begin.

April 6th
A Maryland Wine Experience
Graduate Annapolis
126 West St.
Annapolis, MD 21401
info@marylandwine.com
11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Presented by the Maryland Wineries Association, this three-part event highlights the best of Maryland wine, featuring winemakers, winery owners, and expert winery staff who are happy to discuss their wines and explain the passion behind their purpose. You can choose from three components throughout the day, including four Master Classes, a Maryland Wine Bottle Shop, and a Grand Tasting with dozens of Maryland-grown wines and wines from abroad in sparkling, white, red, and rose varietals. Classes include: Oysters & Wine, Wine Cocktails, Creating a Bordeaux Blend, and a Stroll Thru Italy via Maryland. While you’re here, don’t forget to wander over to the historic and elegant Naval Academy Club, which has exclusive membership offerings like special wine tastings, pairings and specialty cocktails that you can enjoy throughout the year—and a beautiful bar at The Alley at the Naval Academy that serves up libations to visitors with their lunch. 

April 6
Maryland Chicken Wing Festival

Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds
1450 General's Highway
Crownsville, MD 21032
(443) 699-3158
info@abceventsinc.com

11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Welcome to the 10th Annual Maryland Chicken Wing Festival, showcasing wings from some of the best in the business, with more than 30 flavors. Enjoy kids activities, arts and crafts, face painting, music on two stages, contests, and more! And did you know that the midshipmen’s all-time favorite sandwich at the Academy is the Buffalo chicken sandwich that is served at King Hall? Join in tradition and enjoy some great wings flavored this way at the festival!

April 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 27th, 28th, and more
Scenic Severn River Cruise and Thomas Point Lighthouse Cruise

1 Dock Street
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 268-7601
info@watermarkjourney.com

Times Vary

After you have toured the U.S. Naval Academy on foot, it’s another whole experience to see it from the water. Watermark Tours, Charters, Cruises - Annapolis presents two popular tours throughout the year that are especially fine in the spring. Join them for a spectacular 6-mile narrated Scenic Severn River Cruise and take in the historic Annapolis Harbor, including views of the U.S. Naval Academy, as well as the gorgeous banks, wetlands, and impressive waterfront homes of the region along the protected waters of the Severn River. They also offer the Thomas Point Lighthouse Cruise, spotlighting the most iconic lighthouse in Maryland. See this National Historic Landmark on the narrated cruise that goes deeper into the Chesapeake Bay. It’s a uniquely unforgettable Annapolis experience!

Spring to It!

As we said earlier, this is a tiny sampling of the happenings in Annapolis. Take your pick and check visitannapolis.org often for new events and old favorites. We’re excited to welcome you to this wonderful town. And make sure you explore the Yard and take a Naval Academy tour when you’re here. You’ll take in the awe-inspiring Memorial Hall, expansive T-Court, and all the places that make the Yard extraordinary. Proceeds from the tours, dining, and shopping on the Yard help fund the Brigade’s extracurricular activities, like cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more. You give back to the midshipmen when you visit! Come see us soon.

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