Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC) a division of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, is inviting farms, wineries, and established agritourism venues in Southern Maryland to apply to host the 2025 Buy Local Challenge (BLC) Celebration. This annual event aims to celebrate the region's agricultural community and foster connections between consumers and local farms.
Event Background
The Buy Local Challenge Celebration complements Maryland’s Annual Buy Local Challenge Week, initiated by SMADC to encourage consumers to support local farms and consume locally produced foods throughout the week. This week-long initiative has evolved into a statewide effort in collaboration with the Maryland Department of Agriculture. The celebration concludes the week with an open event for the public, following a special 'invitation only' cookout hosted by the Governor for food industry representatives.
Event Details
Traditionally held on the last Monday of July from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the BLC Celebration features a vibrant farmers’ market festival with around 50 vendors showcasing Maryland-grown products, including offerings from local wineries, breweries, distilleries, artisans, and agricultural organizations. Guests can enjoy raffles, food trucks, musical entertainment, carriage rides, and activities for children. The event has gained popularity, attracting over 1,100 attendees, including VIPs from the state legislature and local government.
Call for Host Venues
SMADC aims to rotate the event among the five Southern Maryland counties, providing each the opportunity to host within the first five years of the celebration's inception. With all counties having previously hosted, SMADC is now reopening the bidding process for potential locations.
Agritourism venues in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s counties that can accommodate large public events and meet the outlined criteria are encouraged to apply, including those that have hosted in the past.
Application Details
Host applications are due by Tuesday, April 1st.
For full details and host site selection criteria visit 'What's New, News and Announcements' at www.SMADC.com, or email info@smadc.com.
VIEW THE HOST SITE APPLICATION FORM AND CRITERIA HERE