It’s one of the Bay’s time-honored traditions, bringing national attention to Talbot County, Maryland. The 54th Annual Waterfowl Festival returns to Easton November 14–16, 2025, celebrating art, culture, and conservation of the Chesapeake Bay region. A mecca for wildlife art collectors and outdoor sport enthusiasts alike, the Waterfowl Festival is one of the only places you’ll find world-class duck callers alongside internationally acclaimed sculptors.
Chesapeake Bay Magazine is a proud media sponsor of the Waterfowl Festival again this year, as the festival continues to expand with new offerings. Seven art venues will feature exceptional works inspired by the natural world, joined by new exhibits from Guyette and Deeter, Copley Fine Art, Red Fox Fine Art, and The Sportsman’s Gallery.
Premiere Night (Thursday, Nov. 13) offers VIP guests exclusive access. 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.
Festival highlights on Saturday and Sunday include the World Waterfowl Calling Contest att 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.
New this year is the Ducks Unlimited Landing at the Sportsman’s Pavilion, a showcase of the latest outdoor gear, innovations, and products from Ducks Unlimited partners.
The Dock Dogs jumping competition is a popular spectator sport. There are retriever demonstrations on land and in water. You can shop for anything needed for the outdoor lifestyle. The Tasting Pavilion and the new Delmarva Craft Beer Wetlands Tent feature regional food and drinks.
Families will enjoy the Quackin’ Trail, raptor shows, art activities, and the children’s calling contest. The Chesapeake Mermaid will make an appearance, as will the Waterfowl mascots Willa, Webster, and Winston.
With six live music stages, 20+ food trucks, and free parking and shuttles, this beloved event remains a must-visit celebration of art and the outdoors. Festival hours are Friday, Nov. 14 and Saturday Nov. 15, 2025 10am- 5pm, Sunday, Nov. 16, 10am- 4pm. For tickets, visit waterfowlfestival.org or call 410-822-4567.
