Maryland Day
Did you know that Maryland Day is a special day celebrated every year in the springtime? This day is set aside to honor Maryland's history and heritage!
Activate local heritage tourism and educational programming around Maryland's colonial founding story with experiential activities and themed dining.
- Step into 1634: Historic St. Mary's City costumed tours and colonial craft demonstrations
- Taste History: Maryland restaurants feature 17th-century-inspired menu specials
- Family Adventure: Replica Dove ship tours and scenic heritage trail hikes across Maryland state parks
- DIY Colonial Crafts: Community centers host Maryland flag painting and ship-building workshops
Maryland Day marks a significant event in the state’s history as it’s the anniversary of when the first European settlers’ arrival in Maryland, on March 25, 1634. These settlers, led by the Calvert family, landed on St. Clement’s Island in the Potomac River. They held a ceremony to give thanks for their safe journey, which laid the foundation for the state of Maryland.
In 1916, the celebration became an official state holiday after a declaration by the Maryland General Assembly. This move was part of an effort to foster an appreciation of the state’s historical significance and its contributions to American history. Yet, it had been observed in schools as a day to learn about the state’s history since 1903, as a day dedicated to teaching children about the history of their state!
Dive into History
Why not start with a splash into the past? On Maryland Day, one can visit Historic St. Mary’s City, where costumed actors bring 1634 to life. Imagine chatting with a blacksmith or watching colonial cooking demonstrations. It’s not just educational; it’s like stepping through a time portal!
Set Sail on a Learning Adventure
Hop aboard a replica of the Dove, one of the original ships that carried settlers to Maryland. These tours offer a gust of fresh bay air and tales of high-seas adventure. Who knew learning could feel like a pirate voyage?
Feast Like a Colonist
Indulge in some 17th-century cuisine with a modern twist. Restaurants across Maryland might feature menu specials that include dishes inspired by the state’s rich history. With every bite of these thematic treats, one can taste history, literally!
Trek the Scenic Routes
Grab those hiking boots and explore the scenic trails winding through Maryland’s state parks. Each step is an opportunity to discuss Maryland’s natural beauty and its role in the state’s history. Keep an eye out for historical markers!
Arts and Crafts Festivities
Get those hands busy with Maryland-themed arts and crafts sessions available in many community centers. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike to create something unique while soaking in the state’s pride. Craft a mini Dove ship or paint the Maryland flag! Each of these suggestions offers a unique way to connect with Maryland’s history and culture, ensuring Maryland Day is not just another date on the calendar but a lively celebration of heritage! Maryland Day Timeline1632Charter Created the Province of MarylandKing Charles I granted a proprietary charter on June 20 to Cecilius Calvert, establishing Maryland as a vast, semi-autonomous English colony named for Queen Henrietta Maria. [1]1633–1634Voyage of the Ark and the DoveAbout 140 English colonists sailed from Cowes in November 1633 and landed at St. Clement’s Island on March 25, 1634, founding the first permanent European settlement in Maryland. [1]1634Founding of St. Mary’s CityUnder Governor Leonard Calvert, settlers established St. Mary’s City as the capital of the new colony, making it one of the earliest planned towns in English North America. [1]1649Maryland Toleration ActThe colonial assembly passed the Act Concerning Religion on April 21, granting legal protection of worship to Trinitarian Christians and marking an early step toward religious liberty. [1]1692Maryland Becomes a Royal ColonyAfter the Glorious Revolution, the Crown revoked proprietary control and made Maryland a royal colony, reshaping its government and curtailing Catholic influence. [1]1776From Province to StateMaryland adopted a state constitution on November 11 and transitioned from a British province to an independent state, later becoming the seventh state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. 1904Black-Eyed Susan Named State FlowerThe Maryland legislature designates the Black-Eyed Susan as the official state flower, linking the golden petals and dark centers to the colors of the Calvert family heraldry. [1]
Charter Created the Province of Maryland
King Charles I granted a proprietary charter on June 20 to Cecilius Calvert, establishing Maryland as a vast, semi-autonomous English colony named for Queen Henrietta Maria. [1]
Voyage of the Ark and the Dove
About 140 English colonists sailed from Cowes in November 1633 and landed at St. Clement’s Island on March 25, 1634, founding the first permanent European settlement in Maryland. [1]
Maryland Toleration Act
The colonial assembly passed the Act Concerning Religion on April 21, granting legal protection of worship to Trinitarian Christians and marking an early step toward religious liberty. [1]
Maryland Becomes a Royal Colony
After the Glorious Revolution, the Crown revoked proprietary control and made Maryland a royal colony, reshaping its government and curtailing Catholic influence. [1]
From Province to State
Maryland adopted a state constitution on November 11 and transitioned from a British province to an independent state, later becoming the seventh state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
Black-Eyed Susan Named State Flower
The Maryland legislature designates the Black-Eyed Susan as the official state flower, linking the golden petals and dark centers to the colors of the Calvert family heraldry. [1]