Maryland and blue crabs go together like summer and sunshine. The Chesapeake Bay’s pristine waters produce some of the most coveted crustaceans in America, drawing seafood lovers from across the country.
Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, these crab festivals and restaurants showcase the very best of Maryland’s most famous culinary treasure.
1. Maryland Seafood Festival – A Waterfront Crab Paradise
Set against the stunning backdrop of Sandy Point State Park, this Annapolis tradition brings seafood lovers together every September.
The 2025 festival (September 13-14) features crab-picking contests, cooking demonstrations, and mountains of steamed crabs dusted with Old Bay seasoning. Live music and Chesapeake Bay views make this crab feast unforgettable.
2. Crab Fest – Baltimore’s Downtown Crab Celebration
The heart of Baltimore transforms into crab heaven during this annual downtown celebration. Crab enthusiasts flock to sample creative dishes from dozens of vendors.
From traditional steamed crabs to innovative crab tacos and crab mac-and-cheese, this festival showcases Maryland’s favorite ingredient in both classic and surprising ways. Local breweries provide the perfect pairings for your crab feast.
3. Maryland Crabcake Festival – Farm Country Meets Seafood
Carroll County Farm Museum hosts this unique festival where rural charm meets maritime flavor. Mark your calendar for October 25, 2025!
Compete in the crabcake eating contest or watch professional chefs battle for the title of best crabcake in Maryland. The festival’s rustic setting provides a charming contrast to the coastal cuisine, with hayrides and farm tours between crab courses.
4. Mike’s Crab House – Where Locals Go for Waterfront Feasts
Perched on the South River near Annapolis, Mike’s has been a local institution since 1958. Families gather around paper-covered tables on the sprawling deck overlooking the water.
The all-you-can-eat crab feasts feature massive, meaty jimmies (male crabs) steamed to perfection. Wooden mallets crack in unison as conversations flow, creating the soundtrack of Maryland summer that keeps generations returning.
5. Schultz’s Crab House – Old-School Essex Crab Excellence
This no-frills Essex landmark has been serving spectacular crabs since 1950. Winner of the James Beard Foundation’s “American Classic” award, Schultz’s proves simplicity is the secret to perfection.
Their jumbo crabs arrive piping hot, heavily seasoned, and bursting with sweet meat. The paneled walls covered with Baltimore memorabilia tell stories of decades past, while the recipe for their crab soup remains unchanged.
6. Cantler’s Riverside Inn – The Watermen’s Secret Spot
Hidden down a winding road in Annapolis, Cantler’s feels like a delicious secret despite its national fame. Founded by a waterman family in 1974, they serve crabs caught fresh daily.
The waterside deck puts you right in the middle of Mill Creek, where you might spot the boats that delivered your dinner hours earlier. Their crabs are legendary for size and sweetness, seasoned with Cantler’s proprietary spice blend.
7. Harris Crab House – Kent Narrows’ Seafood Landmark
Crossing the Bay Bridge to the Eastern Shore leads you to this Kent Narrows institution where watermen deliver crabs directly to the dock. Family-owned for generations, Harris combines stunning water views with authentic Chesapeake flavor.
Their crab soup, featuring both Maryland and cream-based versions, has won countless awards. The sunset view from their deck, with boats gliding through the narrows, creates dining memories that last a lifetime.
8. The Crab Claw Restaurant – St. Michaels’ Maritime Treasure
Nestled in historic St. Michaels, The Crab Claw has served Chesapeake classics since 1965 in a setting that feels quintessentially Maryland. The restaurant sits directly on the harbor with the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum as its neighbor.
Watching boats dock while cracking crabs on their waterfront deck feels like stepping into a postcard. Their soft shell crabs, available seasonally, showcase these delicacies at their freshest and most flavorful.
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