River Days Festivals Provide Free Water Access

Anne Arundel County River Days are festivals that provide free water access opportunities through fun recreational and educational activities on county rivers.

2025 River Days Festivals

This summer, the Anne Arundel County Executive’s Office will host four River Days festivals at four different waterfront locations throughout the county.

“The goal of these events is to provide public water access and inspire our residents to become stewards who will protect the health of our local waterways,” said County Executive Pittman. “River Days provide families an opportunity to get out on the water and fall in love with that place that they live.”

River Days Festivals are hosted by the County Executive’s Office. All events are free and open to the public. Each festival will feature fun activities for all ages, including boat rides, water activities, environmental educators, live music, games, crafts, food trucks, and more. Boat rides are free, but capacity is limited and tickets will be available first come, first served to festival attendees beginning one hour before each scheduled boat ride departure. The dates and locations for the 2025 festivals are listed below.

River Days Festival in Edgewater, Saturday, May 17, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater
Enjoy live music, food trucks and plenty of hands-on science activities on the shore with Smithsonian researchers and educators. You’ll also be able to explore the 1735 Woodlawn History Center, the oldest building at the Smithsonian still in its original spot, and meet the archaeologists unearthing discoveries about the past. The event will include free hay rides and boat rides on the Rhode River.

The River Days Festival is free and open to all—no advance signup required! Boat tickets are also free but space is limited. Tickets for boat rides will be available at the festival on a first-come, first-served basis.

River Days Festival in Annapolis Saturday, June 14, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Annapolis Maritime Museum Park, Annapolis in partnership with Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating

River Days Festival at Quiet Waters Park, Saturday, July 26, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Quiet Waters Park, Annapolis
Fun activities for all ages, including boat rides, live music, food trucks, games, crafts, face painting, environmental educators, exhibitors, and more.