A new Chesapeake Bay tradition is coming to the West River this fall as the inaugural Galesville Maritime Heritage Festival launches on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the historic waterfront village of Galesville. Presented by the Galesville Heritage Society, the free, family-friendly festival will celebrate the rich maritime traditions, boatbuilding heritage, and waterfront culture that have shaped the village for generations.
Festival activities will take place throughout Galesville and along the waterfront, featuring:
- Narrated boat tours on the West River
- A midday parade of classic and antique boats
- Watermen’s demonstrations and traditional fishing exhibits• Children’s maritime discovery activities at the West River Sailing Club
- Live music on the waterfront
- Maritime exhibits and author talks at the museum
- Local food, farmers market, specials at our local restaurants
The festival will also highlight Galesville’s unique role in Chesapeake history. A port of entry since 1672, the village became known for its working waterfront, seafood industry, boatbuilding traditions, and connections to the Chesapeake Bay sailing community. “We want people to experience Galesville not just as a destination, but as a living waterfront village with deep roots in Chesapeake culture,” Kathy Bergren Smith, festival chair said. “This
festival is about celebrating the people, traditions, and stories that make this place special.” The event will include opportunities for visitors to explore historic sites connected to the region’s
maritime past, including the legacy of the Hartge family boatyard and the contributions of black watermen.
For updates and additional information, visit galesvillemaritimefestival.org or follow the GHS on Facebook.
