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April 21, 2026 In News, Special Events, Waterfowl

 Waterfowl Festival Announces 2025 Award Recipients Honoring Exceptional Volunteer Service

Easton, Maryland – The Waterfowl Festival is proud to recognize its 2025 award recipients, celebrating a remarkable group of volunteers whose dedication, enthusiasm, and leadership embody the spirit of this cherished Eastern Shore tradition. These individuals have each made meaningful contributions that ensure the continued success of the Festival and its mission of conservation, education, and community engagement.

 

Nancy Espenhorst is recognized for her extraordinary, wide-ranging service to the Festival. From coordinating Dock Dogs and serving as Volunteer Chair to supporting office staff in the critical weeks leading up to the event, Nancy’s impact is felt year-round. During the Festival, she can be found staffing key venues such as Art in the Avalon and Art in the Pavilion, while also leading efforts as Decorations Chair—both in preparation and behind the scenes after the event concludes. Her commitment extends beyond the Festival through service to numerous community organizations, reflecting a deep and enduring dedication to the Eastern Shore.

 

Theresa Harrison is honored for her 37 years of steadfast volunteerism. A cornerstone of Art at the Armory since its inception in 2011, Theresa has reliably anchored multiple sales desk shifts each year. Known for her calm demeanor, good humor, and ability to expertly manage busy and complex sales operations, she brings confidence and consistency to one of the Festival’s most important touchpoints.

 

Sian Kelly has been a vibrant and engaged volunteer at Art at the Armory since 2015. Her enthusiasm and connection with both artists and patrons create a welcoming and energetic environment. Sian’s commitment extends beyond her own service, as she has inspired family members—including her daughters traveling from out of town and even internationally—to volunteer. Her passion for the Festival is further reflected in her support as an art collector.

 

Kathie Middleton is recognized for her unwavering dedication and positivity. Working tirelessly behind the scenes throughout the year, Kathie plays a vital role in organizing and preparing for the Festival. Her steady presence, strong work ethic, and uplifting attitude help guide the team through even the most demanding moments.

 

Tom Lane is celebrated for his essential contributions to the Festival’s operations. Responsible for designing and executing the layouts of all art venues, Tom’s work is foundational to the Festival experience. His year-round commitment and attention to detail ensure that each space comes together seamlessly, creating an environment where artists and visitors alike can fully engage.

 

Joshua Cherry is honored for his longstanding and spirited involvement as part of the Festival’s Information Guide program. Having grown up with the Festival, Joshua continues to bring energy, personality, and a welcoming presence to Easton’s streets each year. Known for encouraging others to participate, he represents the next generation of volunteers carrying forward the Festival’s traditions.

 

Betsy Griffin is also recognized for her valuable contributions and ongoing support of the Waterfowl Festival through her positive attitude, can-do team spirit, and a great love of community that spills over into her volunteer work.  Her team at APG media is also recognized for their extraordinary participation in the 2025 festival. 

 

“These award recipients represent the very best of what makes the Waterfowl Festival so special,” said Executive Director Deena Kilmon. “Their generosity of time, enthusiasm, and commitment to our mission ensure that we continue to inspire appreciation for wildlife, art, and the traditions of the Eastern Shore. We are deeply grateful for their service and proud to celebrate their impact.”

 

The Waterfowl Festival invites the community to join the flock and volunteer with us throughout the year! Each volunteer receives a free weekend pass for the 2026 festival. Student volunteers qualify for community service hours and can apply for festival scholarship for secondary education. For more info:  

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April 16, 2026 In News, Uncategorized, Waterfowl

Sammie Adams-Mercer named to Shore Leadership Class of 2026

Sammie Adams-Mercer, Assistant Director of the Waterfowl Festival, has been selected to participate in the Shore Leadership Class of 2026. Adams-Mercer is among 24 professionals chosen for this highly regarded, nine-month experiential program dedicated to strengthening leadership capacity across Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

 

Founded in 1997, Shore Leadership convenes monthly sessions in a different Eastern Shore county, each centered on a key regional issue. The curriculum is delivered in partnership with facilitators from the United States Naval Academy’s James B. Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership. Through direct engagement with community leaders, industry experts, and regional institutions, participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the economic, social, and environmental factors shaping the Shore. The program fosters meaningful dialogue and collaboration, equipping participants with the insight and skills necessary to address the region’s interconnected opportunities and challenges.

 

“Sammie is a vital part of the Waterfowl Festival organization,” said Executive Director and Shore Leadership alumna Deena Kilmon. “Community interconnectedness has been central to our fifty-five years of success, and Shore Leadership provides an exceptional opportunity to develop the skills needed to strengthen those connections. We congratulate Sammie and all members of the Class of 2026 on this achievement.”

 

Adams-Mercer’s selection reflects her ongoing commitment to community engagement and professional growth. Her participation in Shore Leadership will further enhance the Waterfowl Festival’s mission to celebrate and conserve the cultural and natural heritage of the Eastern Shore while fostering strong partnerships throughout the region.

 

About the Waterfowl Festival

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships,  and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

 

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen.  The 2026 festival will be held on November 13-15. For more Info: waterfowlfestival.org or email . 

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March 26, 2026 In Conservation Projects, Festival Highlights, News, Special Events, Uncategorized, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival Donates $5,000 to Talbot Retriever Club, Strengthening Shared Commitment to Conservation and Sporting Heritage

The Waterfowl Festival is proud to announce a $5,000 grant to the Talbot Retriever Club in support of its ongoing efforts to promote responsible sporting traditions, conservation, and community engagement across Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Funds from the Samuel H. Shriver, Jr. Sporting Heritage Endowment were used to fulfill this request.

 

This contribution reflects a longstanding relationship between the two organizations, both of which share a deep commitment to preserving the region’s rich waterfowling heritage and the natural environments that sustain it. The Talbot Retriever Club plays a vital role in training and showcasing skilled retrievers, advancing ethical hunting practices, and fostering appreciation for working dogs as essential partners in the field.

 

“For decades, the Talbot Retriever Club has worked with the festival to educate festival attendees by hosting retriever demonstrations downtown, showcasing the amazing bond between these highly-trained pups and their humans,” remarked festival Vice-President Charles Wrightson. “Consistenly their demos are noted as a favorite event attended by generations of families throughout the years. We are proud to support their efforts.”

Funds from the donation will help support the Club’s training programs, events, and outreach initiatives, which bring together sportsmen and women of all ages to learn, compete, and connect through a shared passion for retrievers and the outdoors. 

 

As the Waterfowl Festival continues its mission to inspire environmental stewardship through art, education, and community programming, partnerships like this remain essential in ensuring that the legacy of the Eastern Shore’s sporting culture endures for future generations.

 

Image: Waterfowl Festival presents $5K check to Talbot Retriever Club (pictured) Danny Callahan (Talbot Retriever Club Vice-President)( Phyliss McGinn and Butch Chambers (Talbot Retriever Club Board Members), Deena Kilmon, Waterfowl Festival Executive Director; Winston Chance (Talbot Retriever Club President), Candace Bartolowits (Talbot Retriever Club Treasurer)

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About the Waterfowl Festival

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships,  and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen. 

 

About The Samuel H. Shriver Jr. Sporting Heritage Fund

The fund was established in the memory of long-time Festival supporter and volunteer, Samuel H. Shriver, Jr. The Fund was established by members of the Shriver family in honor of Mr. Shriver’s love of the annual Waterfowl Festival and its sporting heritage foundation.

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March 11, 2026 In Art, Artists, Carvers, Featured Art, Painters, Sculptors, Uncategorized, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival 55 Announces Three Featured Artists — A First in Festival History

Waterfowl Festival 55 Announces Three Featured Artists — A First in Festival History

Easton, Maryland — The Waterfowl Festival proudly announces an historic milestone for its 55th anniversary celebration: for the first time in the Festival’s history, three distinguished artists have been selected as Featured Artists.

Honored for 2026 are nationally acclaimed graphite artist Ray Brown of California, master sculptor Paul Rhymer of Maryland, and award-winning decoy carver Randy Conner of New York. Each artist will create new, original works debuting exclusively at Waterfowl Festival 55.

Celebrating Excellence Across Mediums

Ray Brown is internationally recognized for his hyper-realistic graphite renderings of wildlife. A multiple “Best in Show” recipient at major wildlife art exhibitions, Brown’s meticulous detail and mastery of light have earned him widespread acclaim among collectors and conservationists alike. His featured piece for the Festival will showcase the dramatic beauty and precision that define his celebrated style.

Paul Rhymer, a Maryland-based sculptor known for capturing motion and anatomical accuracy in bronze, has received numerous national awards for his wildlife sculpture. His works are held in private and public collections across the country. For Waterfowl Festival 55, Rhymer will debut a newly conceived sculpture inspired by his love of the Chesapeake region, with a nod to America’s 250 celebration. 

Randy Conner, one of the nation’s most respected contemporary decoy carvers, has earned top honors at prestigious carving competitions throughout the Northeast. Revered for his blend of traditional craftsmanship and refined artistry, Conner will unveil a new hand-carved piece created specifically to commemorate the Festival’s 55th year.

A Historic First

For more than five decades, the Waterfowl Festival has honored singular artistic excellence. Selecting three Featured Artists for the 55th Festival reflects both the depth of talent within the wildlife arts community and the Festival’s commitment to celebrating diverse artistic traditions — from fine drawing and sculpture to heritage carving.

Each artist’s newly created work will be formally unveiled during Festival weekend, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire debut pieces tied to this milestone year.

Waterfowl Festival 55 will continue its legacy of advancing conservation, celebrating sporting heritage, and showcasing world-class wildlife art in the heart of Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

For more information, visit waterfowlfestival.org or follow updates on social media.

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About the Waterfowl Festival

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships,  and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen. 

Images: Ray Brown, “Bonnie and Clyde” graphite on board 40×40

Ray Brown: Self Portrait

Paul Rhymer, kayaking in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay 

Randy Conner, Owl Carving

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December 17, 2025 In Artists, Festival Highlights, News, Special Events, Uncategorized, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival Announces 2025 Hall of Fame Members

Each year since 1992, the Waterfowl Festival Hall of Fame Awards have been given in recognition of the commitment and impact that individuals have made on the Festival and in turn our community. We proudly honor these people who have had a significant hand in shaping our event into one of the premiere wildlife and waterfowl art shows in the country. On November 13, 2025, three new honorees were inducted during the 54th Annual Premier Night ceremonies in the iconic Crystal Room at the Tidewater Inn. 

 

Hall of Fame members have offered at least 10 years of significant support as a community volunteer, Festival leader, collector, artist or innovator.  Over the years, these individuals have poured their heart and soul into our community and we are deeply grateful for their contributions. 


This year, we proudly honor Pat Crane, Judy Knight, and Ken Miller,  all of Talbot County, MD. 

 

For over 22 years, Pat Crane has been a dedicated volunteer, including 13 years on the Board of Directors. Pat has been a member of the Art Committee for over 20 years and the scholarship committee for 9 years. Year after year Pat has worked hard to ensure that the artists feel at home when they come to visit from all over the world. Pat has also supported the Festival through countless hours of administrative work and served as co-chair for Art at the Avalon for 22 years. We are deeply grateful for her commitment and enthusiasm to the Festival.

 

Judy Knight has volunteered with the Festival since 1914, delivering over 30 years of dedicated service. She served on the board for six years and was an active member of the scholarship committee for 2013-2020 as well as a volunteer for the Elks Gallery and a co-chair of the Crystal Room. Judy has been a co-chair and volunteer coordinator for Art at the Armory since its inception and has served on the Art Committtee since 2000, helping with decision-making, organization, and operations. Her leadership and unwavering commitment have been instrumental to the festival’s success. 

 

Ken Miller served as president of the Waterfowl Festival in 2022. He has been a dedicated volunteer for over a decade, contributing in many significant ways. The most outstanding contribution was throughout 2022 when he assumed many of the administrative duties of the festival while the organization searched for a new executive director. He was a member of both the Waterfowl Festival and Waterfowl Chesapeake boards; co-chair of Art at the Avalon exhibit, chair and member of the Scholarship Committee, and continues as a member of the Art and Conservation Committees. 

 

“Every year, it is a fantastic moment we share with the community when we recognize such extraordinary people that give so much to our town’s biggest event of the year,” said Executive Director, Deena Kilmon. “Pat, Judy, and Ken have worked tirelessly, side by side, to make our festival an outstanding event for our community. The scholarships to hundreds of students, the nurturing of hundreds of artists, and the support of conservation projects their work made possible will impact generations of Eastern Shore residents.”

The 55th annual Waterfowl Festival is planned for November 13-15,2026. For vendor or sponsor inquiries, please contact: . 

Image credit: Cal Jackson/Cal Jackson Photography

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About the Waterfowl Festival

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships,  and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

 

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen. 

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December 8, 2025 In News, Uncategorized, Waterfowl

In Memoriam: Tony Kern

Tony Kern was named to the Waterfowl Festival board in 2022, but has been active in many downtown initiatives supporting not only the festival, but all downtown events and initiatives. On the Waterfowl Festival board, he served as Vice-President and chairman of the Facilities committee. Kern was integral to the management of the festival over the past few years, and was particularly effective at spearheading projects involving our capital assets including the Waterfowl Festival Building (the old Easton Armory) supervising grants by the Maryland Historic Trust to help preserve the integrity of the building for generations to come. Tony believed strongly in partnerships, and helped the festival work within our community to build bridges, supporting projects that benefitted the entire community.

 

Read more on Tony’s vision for the Waterfowl Buidling restoration: Chestertown Spy

 

When and where he could, Tony lent his considerable expertise in finance and real estate to help support many local economic development initiatives as well as other non-profit causes.

Tony served on several boards including Qlarant Inc. , Chairman of the Board,  and Chair of Finance; Easton Economic Development Corporation/Vice-Chair,;Chair of Downtown Easton; Chairman  the of Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center, and was an active member of the executive committee of the Talbot County, Maryland, Ethics Commission.

 

Tony Kern was a retired Senior Managing Partner with global accounting and consulting firm Deloitte & Touche. His experience encompasses a broad range of industries with a concentration in technology, media, telecommunications, and finance. He provided a wide range of management advice and counsel, including business strategy, corporate finance, new product and service development, innovation strategies, corporate compliance, enterprise re-structuring and operational optimization, corporate governance, and ethics, as well as M&A planning and integration. He was Deloitte’s US Deputy Managing Partner for Technology, Media and Telecoms, the firm’s Americas Managing Partner for Media & Entertainment, the Global Managing Partner for Innovation and Senior Advisory Partner for a number of integrated tech, telecom, and media companies.

 

Tony is a recognized expert by U.S. Federal Courts in matters of business management, transactions, corporate finance, technology, media, and telecommunications. He was a frequent speaker at industry meetings and has been interviewed by The Wall Street Journal, National Public Radio, CNBC, MSNBC, The New York Times, Dow Jones, Fortune Magazine, and other media outlets.

 

Prior to joining Deloitte Tony was Global Managing Partner of Technology & Infocom financial services at PricewaterhouseCoopers and Regional Managing Partner of Economic & Financial Consulting at Arthur Andersen.

 

As an avocation Tony has restored multiple historic properties for his own portfolio and that of outside investors including property in Easton, Maryland and Montgomery County, Maryland.

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October 2, 2025 In Conservation Projects, Festival Highlights, News, Special Events, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival and 1623 Brewing Co. Unite in Support of Conservation


Delmarva Craft Distributing to bring “Goose Sweat Hazy IPA” to the Shore

Easton, MD – October 2, 2025- The Waterfowl Festival is thrilled to announce a special partnership with 1623 Brewing Co. and Delmarva Craft Distributing to create a one-of-a-kind craft beer for the 2025 Festival. This collaboration will bring festivalgoers the limited-edition “Goose Sweat Hazy IPA”, brewed to celebrate Eastern Shore traditions, conservation, and community. The beer will be served at the Festival’s annual premier night on November 13, 2025. 

 

“Each year, we look for new ways to connect people to the spirit of the Festival, and this collaboration with 1623 Brewing Co. is a perfect fit,” said Deena Kilmon, Executive Director, Waterfowl Festival. “Goose Sweat Hazy IPA is fun, flavorful, and 1623 is rooted in the same heritage and sense of community that has defined the Festival for more than fifty years. We had a great time with our volunteers picking the flavor profile!”

 

Thanks to a partnership with Delmarva Craft, Goose Sweat Hazy IPA will be available not only at Festival events, but also in select retailers, bars, and restaurants throughout the Delmarva Peninsula. The beer will give supporters a chance to raise a glass to waterfowl, conservation, and the unique culture of the Shore.

 

“We’re proud to partner with the Waterfowl Festival and Delmarva Craft on this release,” said Mark Evans. “The Festival represents the best of Maryland’s traditions, and we are honored to create a beer that complements the celebration.”

 

Proceeds from the release of Goose Sweat Hazy IPA will help support the Waterfowl Festival’s mission of conserving waterfowl and their habitats while promoting the heritage and traditions of the Eastern Shore. For more information on purchase locations, please contact Rick Carter, Delmarva Craft, 443-666-0110.

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October 1, 2025 In Art, News, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival Announces Free Parking and Shuttle Stops for 54th Annual Event

 

Waterfowl Festival Announces Free Parking and Shuttle Stops for 54th Annual Event

EASTON, MD –October 1, 2025 – The Waterfowl Festival is gearing up for its 54th annual celebration of wildlife art, conservation, and the Eastern Shore’s sporting life, taking place November 14-16, 2025, in historic Easton, Maryland. To ensure a smooth experience for all attendees, the festival is highlighting its free parking and shuttle bus system. Bus service is complimentary for festival ticket holders. 

Free Parking Locations: The Festival offers free parking at several key locations with easy access to the shuttle bus routes. Free Parking is available at the following sites:

  • Easton High School
  • Easton Elementary School
  • Easton Middle School
  • Molly’s Place / Old Pier One (located within the Kohl’s parking lot area)
  • Easton Town Lots 5,6,7, 9, 11, 12  are open and have additional ADA parking available for the festival weekend (Easton town map: https://www.eastonmd.gov/255/Parking)

Complimentary Festival Shuttles: Festival Ticket holders can ride complimentary shuttle buses to all attractions. The buses will run continuously, connecting the free parking lots to the various downtown venues. Buses will run thirty minutes prior to opening and closing festival hours.

The festival shuttle buses for 2025 are the Blue Line and the Orange Line

  • Starting Point: Both the Blue Line and Orange Line routes begin and end at the Historical Society parking lot (off of N. West St.), which serves as a central stop for Downtown and a transfer point to all routes.
  • The Blue Line: Historical Society, Waterfowl Buidling (Armory), Easton MIddle School, Sportsman’s Pavilion (Easton Elks Lodge), Easton High School, back to Historical Society.
  • The Orange Line :Historical Society, Easton Elementary, Bay Street Ponds, Molly’s Place, Easton Farmer’s Market, Country School 

To purchase festival tickets, a full schedule of events, and event map please visit: waterfowlfestival.org 

About the Waterfowl Festival: 

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships,  and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen. 

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September 15, 2025 In Conservation, Conservation Projects, Special Events, Waterfowl

Waterfowl Festival Invests $70,000 in Maryland  Wetland Restoration Projects

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Waterfowl Festival Invests $70,000 in Maryland  Wetland Restoration Projects

Easton, MD – [Insert Date] – The Waterfowl Festival announced today a $70,000 conservation investment to support DU’s Conservation for a Continent Campaign in partnership with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These projects will restore wetlands on publicly accessible lands—ensuring that Maryland residents, sportsmen and women, birdwatchers, and future generations have access to natural and wild open spaces.This funding will directly benefit waterfowl, wildlife, water quality, and outdoor recreation at three high-priority sites: Browns Branch Wildlife Management Area (Queen Anne’s County), LeCompte Wildlife Management Area (Dorchester Co), and Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (Dorchester County).

For more than 50 years, the Waterfowl Festival has celebrated the rich traditions of the Chesapeake Bay while advancing habitat conservation. This year’s gift, funded by the proceeds from the festival’s annual and iconic Premiere Night event,  underscores the Festival’s renewed commitment to protecting the landscapes that sustain both wildlife and the way of life that makes the Shore unique.

“Supporting meaningful, strategic, and shovel-ready  projects of this size ensures that our investment in conservation has lasting impact,” said Julie Susman, Board President, Waterfowl Festival. “These projects improve waterfowl habitat in some of the most important areas of the Atlantic Flyway while also enhancing public access, recreation, and the health of the Chesapeake Bay.”

The $70,000 contribution will help fund three major projects:

  • Browns Branch Wildlife Management Area (Queen Anne’s County) – $20,000 will restore 16.2 acres of marginal farmland into shallow emergent wetlands, improving habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds while reducing an estimated 826 pounds of nitrogen and nearly 39,000 pounds of sediment from entering the Bay each year. 
  • LeCompte Wildlife Management Area (Dorchester County) – $20,000 will support the conversion of 16.6 acres of agricultural land into managed wetlands, enhancing habitat for migratory waterfowl and reducing more than 1,100 pounds of nitrogen and 59,000 pounds of suspended solids annually in the Nanticoke watershed. 
  • Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (Dorchester County) – $30,000 will leverage federal funding to restore 23 acres within the Refuge’s core 250-acre managed wetland complex. This work will sustain one of the most important wintering grounds for migratory waterfowl and improve water quality by reducing 1,800 pounds of nitrogen and more than 160 tons of sediment annually. 

 

“The Chesapeake Bay’s wetlands are irreplaceable for waterfowl and people alike,” said Taylor Deemer, DU Director of Development/Maryland-Delaware. “The Waterfowl Festival’s investment is a powerful example of how conservation and community come together to make a lasting difference.”

Projects are expected to be completed by June 2026.

About the Waterfowl Festival
 The Waterfowl Festival, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Easton, Maryland, is dedicated to wildlife conservation, the celebration of waterfowl art, and the preservation of Eastern Shore heritage. Since its founding in 1971, the Festival has raised millions for habitat restoration and community programs across the Chesapeake Bay region. Learn more at www.waterfowlfestival.org.

 

Image: Waterfowl Festival Board of Directors present check to DU Conservation for a Continent program. In order from left to right: Deena Kilmon, Executive Director, Waterfowl Festival; Jake McPherson, Ducks Unlimited Managing Director of Development- Great Lakes/Atlantic Region; Julie Susman, President, Waterfowl Festival 2025, Austin Durrer, Waterfowl Development Committee Chairman; Chip Heaps, Waterfowl Conservation Committee Chairman; Ernest Burns& Jonathon Rondeau, Waterfowl Board of Directors; Taylor Deemer, DU Director of Development/MD-DE; Colin Perry, Amy Horne, and Kim Newcomb, Waterfowl Board of Directors. 

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September 2, 2025 In Art, Artists, Featured Art, Festival Highlights, News, Waterfowl

New Venues, new Artists, and Champion of Champions at Waterfowl Festival 54!

 

[Easton, MD] – August 29, 2025 – The Waterfowl Festival, one of the nation’s premier events dedicated to the celebration of waterfowl and the natural environment, returns to Easton, Maryland, on November 14-16, 2025. Celebrating its 54th year, the event offers a diverse range of activities that highlight the art, culture, and conservation of the Chesapeake Bay region. 

This year, seven art venues will be filled with spectacular sculptures, paintings, carvings, photography, and mixed media featuring the art of the natural world. New this year, attendees will be welcomed to two new additional venues to see world-renowned collections by Guyette and Deeter (St. Michaels, MD) Copley Fine Art Auctions (Pembroke, Mass.)  Red Fox Fine Art (Middleburg, VA) and the Sportsman’s Gallery/Paderewski Fine Art (Charleston, SC). 

Premiere night continues to evolve and surprise and this year is no exception! The “Eastern Shore” sporting party of the year shines with indoor and outdoor venues. The festivities will begin in the historic Tidewater Inn’s Crystal room with the opening ceremonies and the iconic gavel drop! Sip exclusive bourbons in the PNC Pavilion while enjoying a first look at Featured Artist Al Barker’s paintings commissioned especially for Waterfowl Festival 54. VIP’s will enjoy a fantastic cocktail reception in each venue while they meet the 2025 artists. The popular outdoor oyster bar will feature Madhouse oysters. Mill outside and inside while enjoying live music, carriage rides, photo booths, and the first look at Waterfowl festival attire by Brackish Life – exclusively designed for this year’s festival by local artists. 

Not to be missed this year, the World Waterfowl Calling Contest will be held at Easton High School, featuring the Champion of Champions round, only held every five years. This prestigious contest has been running continuously since 1976 and features the world’s best in goose and duck calling battling it out for cash and prizes. 

Favorite attractions at the festival will include the iconic Dock Dogs jumping competition, retriever demonstrations on land and in water, and numerous venues for shopping for everything needed for the outdoor lifestyle from cars to boats, accessories and clothing. Featured attractions include the famous Tasting Pavilion where attendees sample locally distilled spirits, wine, food, and beer from around the region. Additionally this year, festival goers can enjoy local beer in the Delmarva Craft Beer Wetlands tent at the Bay Street Ponds. 

Children will be entertained by the many stops on the Quackin’ Trail including two different raptor exhibitions, educational presentations by The Chesapeake Mermaid, interactive art activities by the Ward Museum and local artist/writer Tim Young, the children’s calling contest sponsored by Sean Mann, the fishing derby, and many interactive conservation displays from community partners. The Waterfowl mascots Willa, Webster, and Winston will be on hand for great family photo opportunities. 

During the festival, enjoy live music of all genres on six music stages. Food trucks will be spread throughout the festival, including crowd favorites Smith Island Cake, crab cakes, oysters, and more. Over twenty food trucks will be on hand in addition to the wonderful local restaurants downtown, many of whom feature special Waterfowl menus. 

New this year is the Ducks Unlimited Landing at the Sportsman’s Pavilion  Step inside and explore a showcase of conservation, community, and the very best in the outdoors. This year, the tent will be filled with DU partners featuring the latest outdoor gear, innovations, and products.

VIP ticket packages and General Admission are available. Children ten and under are free with a ticket holding guardian/parent. Parking is free at all local public schools, numerous town lots, and free street parking throughout the downtown area. Bus Transportation to all attractions is complimentary with a festival ticket. Accessible parking is available at all school lots and accessible buses will be running continuously. 

Festival Hours and Times:

November 13, 2025 4:30-8:30 PM, Premier Night -VIP Ticket holders only 

Friday, Nov. 14 and Saturday Nov. 15, 2025 – All venues open 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM

Sunday, November 16 – All Venues open 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

For tickets please visit: https://waterfowlfestival.org/festival-tickets/ or call 410-822-4567. Corporate partners are encouraged to email for more information. 

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About the Waterfowl Festival

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships,  and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen. 

For more information about the Waterfowl Festival, including ticket sales and a full schedule of events, please visit www.waterfowlfestival.org.

 

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