Outdoor enthusiasts across Maryland’s Eastern Shore will gather this Saturday for an inaugural celebration of the region’s recreational traditions. The Explore the Shore Expo debuts February 21 in Cambridge, bringing together families for a day dedicated to the area’s hunting, fishing, camping and adventure culture.
The debut festival combines outdoor equipment displays, educational workshops, vendor booths, regional food and drink offerings, plus an official Bucks-Bears-Stags measuring event. This family-oriented gathering aims to unite outdoor companies, regional businesses and community members in honoring the Shore’s recreational heritage.
Cambridge’s renovated Packing House will serve as the venue for the expo. The historic structure dates back to 1920 when it operated as part of Phillips Packing Company, which became Dorchester County’s largest employer during the 1900s and significantly shaped Chesapeake Bay’s industrial legacy.
Multiple organizations are backing the event, including Cross Street Partners/The Packing House, Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Office of Outdoor Recreation, National Wildlife Refuge System, Bucks-Bears-Stags, Visit Dorchester, Waterfowl Festival, RaR Brewing, and J.J. McDonnell & Co.
“Explore the Shore is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of who we are on Maryland’s Eastern Shore,” said Amanda Fenstermaker, community manager at The Packing House. “This expo highlights our region’s love for nature, adventure and community, and showcases the local organizations and businesses that help people experience it.”
Maryland Department of Natural Resources staff from various divisions will attend, including representatives from Maryland Park Service, Wildlife and Heritage Service, Natural Resources Police, Watershed and Climate Services, and Fishing and Boating Services. These experts will provide information on hunting, fishing, camping fundamentals and environmental conservation practices.
“Outdoor recreation is such an important part of Maryland’s culture and economy, but it’s also unique to each region,” said Sandi Olek, director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation. “It’s been wonderful to work with the Packing House and local partners to highlight the businesses, organizations, tastes, and outdoor experiences of the Eastern Shore.”
The expo runs from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission costs $5 per person, while children 12 and younger enter free. Attendees can buy tickets online or pay with cash at the entrance.
Additional details are available at thepackinghousecambridge.com/outdoor-expo.
