join us on the shore.
Discover. Taste. Explore.
Step inside the beautifully restored Packing House and dive into a full day of outdoor adventure, hands-on learning, and Eastern Shore tradition. This high-energy, family-friendly expo brings together the region’s best in hunting, fishing, conservation, outdoor recreation, and local culture—all under one historic roof.
Stroll through dynamic exhibits, talk with outfitters and conservation groups, learn new skills from seasoned pros, and enjoy a day filled with music, food, and family-friendly fun. From wild game tastings to hands-on demonstrations, every corner of the Expo invites you to explore something new.
Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman, a casual explorer, or bringing the kids for a day of discovery, this immersive event offers something for everyone.
A DAY OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE FEATURING:
Outdoor gear exhibits, vendor booths, and hands-on demos
Hands-on demos, workshops & clinics
Wild game culinary experience - Taste of the Shore
Local food & craft beverage vendors
Entertainment and family activities
Networking with outfitters, guides, and community organizations
Bucks, Bears & Stags official measuring event
Start your Explore the Shore day early with a scenic spin around Cambridge!
Join the Chesapeake Cycling Club for a flat, 16-mile guided ride through the historic downtown and along the scenic Choptank River.
Bring your own bike and meet at the Packing House at 8:45 AM. The ride rolls out at 9:00 AM.
Sign up by messaging ridec3.org or emailing ericgriffioen@icloud.com.
The first 10 riders to register will earn FREE entry to the Explore the Shore Outdoor Expo!
Bring the Family - Let the Outdoor Fun Begin!
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Program Schedule (Tentative)
9:00 AM: Scenic Spin around Cambridge / C3 Biking
Join the Chesapeake Cycling Club for a flat, 16-mile guided ride through the historic downtown and along the scenic Choptank River. Bring your own bike and meet at the Packing House at 8:45 AM. The ride rolls out at 9:00 AM.
Sign up by messaging ridec3.org or emailing ericgriffioen@icloud.com. The first 10 riders to register will earn FREE entry to the Explore the Shore Outdoor Expo!
All Day (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM): Bucks, Bears, and Stags Official
Measuring Event
Bring your Maryland Whitetail Deer, Black Bear or Sika Stag from any season to be measured for Maryland's Record Book. If your entry qualifies, you’ll receive recognition in the newest edition of “Maryland's Finest: The Records and the Legacy.”
All Day - every hour on the hour
Become a Birdwatcher on the Shore - This 10-minute comprehensive session, hosted by The Friends of Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and Refuge staff, will take place every hour, on the hour at the Friends of Blackwater table. It is designed to encourage beginners to become confident birders by providing an introduction to the history and fundamentals of birdwatching. Stop by to receive hands-on demonstrations on essential equipment, techniques for field identification, and methods for tracking observations. The session also explores specialized topics such as bird photography, the economic impact of birding in America, and the vital role the National Wildlife Refuge System plays in conserving migratory birds, including the local Blackwater NWR. Attendees will also learn about key organizations dedicated to bird conservation, offering a clear path for those looking to engage further with Maryland’s natural heritage and outdoor recreational opportunities for friends and family.
10:00 AM: Learn to Hunt: Where to Start?
Interested in hunting but not sure where to begin? This session offers a quick overview of how to get started. Learn how to connect with Maryland’s hunting community and take your first steps with confidence.
11:00 AM: Wild Game Cooking: Beyond the Crockpot
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) will show you how to turn Maryland’s wild harvests into delicious meals. Learn tips and techniques for preparing local wild game while discovering how BHA works to protect public lands, waters, and wildlife habitat for future generations.
12:00 PM: Local Celebrity Chef Wild Game Cook Off!
Watch regional chefs putting their own creative spin on Maryland’s wild harvests! Enjoy the excitement as they showcase unique recipes, bold flavors, and local ingredients while celebrating the connection between field, forest, marsh, and table.
1:00 PM: Foraging 101: The Buffet in Your Backyard
Join local experts for an introduction to identifying and safely harvesting wild edible plants and fungi found right in your own backyard. Learn how to recognize seasonal favorites, practice responsible foraging, and discover the delicious possibilities nature provides, no grocery store required!
2:00 PM: Lure Crafting and Fishing Demo
Get hooked on the art of fishing! In this hands-on demo, you’ll learn how to craft your own fishing lures and pick up practical tips for casting, bait selection, and local fishing spots. Perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike, this session will help you reel in new skills and inspiration for your next day on the water.
3:00 PM: Intro to Camping with Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW)
Camping is in-tents, but it’s not too hard once you know the basics! This one-hour session, presented by Becoming an Outdoors Woman (BOW), will offer a hands-on overview of tent camping - including how to set up a tent and campsite, what to bring, and where to go - as well as a brief exploration of alternative options, like backpacking and car camping.
BOW is a program that helps participants gain confidence and skills in outdoor recreation. Open to everyone, this hands-on session offers a taste of the fun, supportive learning environment BOW is known for, no experience needed!
Additional Activities:
Archery - Learn the basics of archery safety and technique, then put your skills to the test on the range!
Scales & Tales - Get up close and personal with live animals and discover their stories with naturalists from Tuckahoe State Park!
Fishing Trailer - Discover your inner angler with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ mobile fishing trailer! Staff will demo fishing equipment and provide guidance to help you cast, reel, and learn the basics of angling.
Maryland Park Service Table - Stop by the Maryland Park Service table to explore hands-on activities, pick up fun giveaways, and learn about outdoor recreation opportunities in Maryland’s state parks.
Got questions? Ready to sponsor or join as a vendor?
Fill out the form and our team will get you in on the fun!
