Springtime in the four-state region means plenty of weekend festivals and outdoor events that take advantage of the area’s warmer weather.  Here is just a sampling of some of the featured activities, but make sure to check your local paper or internet for other celebrations and happenings throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. 

Fort Frederick 18^th Century Market Fair

Now in its 25^th year, the 18^th Century Market Fair at Fort Frederick is a unique and immersive look at early American colonial history.  It’s an informative and entertaining glimpse at our nation’s early past, preserved and passed on for future generations.  There are lots of period craft vendors, food, and strolling entertainers.  It’s a fascinating look at everyday colonial life.

When: April 25^th – April 29^th, 2019

                Thursday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m.

             Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Where: Fort Frederick State Park

             11100 Fort Frederick Road

             Big Pool, MD  21711

Cost:      Adults – $5.00

             Children (6-12) – $2.00

             Children (under 5) – Free

Website:  https://friendsoffortfrederick.info/market_fair.htm

Flip-Flop Festival

Now on its 5^th year, this festival celebrates all things for the active outdoors enthusiast, featuring workshops on hiking, trail etiquette, rock climbing, bicycling, and other outdoor activities.  The festival also includes music, food, and beer tastings.

When:  April 27^th – April 28^th, 2019

Where: Harpers, Ferry, WV

Cost:      Seminars and workshops are free!  Bring cash for the various food, drink, and merchandise vendors.

Website: http://www.flipflopfestival.org/

Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival Grand Feature Parade

Now in its 92^nd year, this multi-day festival celebrates spring.  There are parties, carnivals, princesses, and many other events (forty in all) that take place over the ten-day festivities, held this year from April 26^th – May 5^th, culminating in the Grand Feature parade on Saturday, May 4^th.  Take part in any or all of the wide variety of outdoor and indoor activities.

When:  May 4^th, 2019

Where: Winchester, VA.

Multiple chair locations (for purchase) are available all along the parade route.

Cost:      Chair reservations range from $8.00 – $13.00 (or bring your own and pick out a free spot)

Website: https://thebloom.com/event/grand-feature-parade/

Blues, Brews, and Barbeque

This parking lot party brings together live blues music, food vendors, and beers for a memorable springtime Saturday event in Pennsylvania.

When:  Saturday, May 4^th, 2019

Where: The Capitol Theatre

             159 South Main Street

             Chambersburg, PA 17201

Cost:      Adults – $12.00

             Designated Drivers – $9.00

Website:  www.thecapitoltheatre.org

Don’t just sit around on a Saturday next weekend – get out and enjoy what the area has to offer!