Sandy Spring Strawberry Festival

Sandy Spring Strawberry Festival

The Sandy Spring Strawberry Festival is one of those local Maryland traditions that just works perfectly for families. It takes place once a year in early June, and the whole event is centered around strawberries, community, and giving kids a full day of things to do outdoors. There's a petting zoo where little ones can get close to goats, rabbits, and chickens. There's live music playing all day on the main stage. And there are over 50 craft vendors set up across the grounds selling handmade goods, pottery, jewelry, and local art. My kids spent most of their time bouncing between the kids' activity area and the food booths, which is exactly how I hoped the day would go. The vibe is small-town festival, not overcrowded carnival, and that's what makes it so enjoyable.

The big thing to know is that they cap attendance at 5,000 people, so you really need to buy tickets ahead of time. Once they sell out, they sell out. Tickets run between $8 and $12 depending on age, which is pretty reasonable for a full day of entertainment. The strawberry shortcake eating contest is the signature event and it's hilarious to watch. Kids and adults compete separately, and everyone ends up covered in whipped cream. Beyond the contest, there are face painting stations, sack races, and craft tables where kids can make their own strawberry-themed projects. The food options go well beyond strawberries too, with local food trucks and stands serving everything from barbecue to lemonade to kettle corn.

Sandy Spring is about 30 minutes north of DC in Montgomery County, so it feels like a real getaway without a long drive. The festival grounds are grassy and open, which is great for toddlers who need room to run. Bring a blanket if you want to stake out a spot near the music stage. The event runs from 10am to 5pm, and we found that arriving around 10:30am gave us plenty of time to see everything without feeling rushed. By mid-afternoon the crowds pick up, so morning is the sweet spot for families with younger kids. Pack sunscreen and hats because there's limited shade, and wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty. The fields can get muddy if it rained during the week. This is one of those events where the whole family ends up having a great time, and you drive home tired in the best way.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Buy tickets online before you go. They cap attendance at 5,000 and it sells out. Don't wait until the day of.
• ✓Arrive by 10:30am. Morning is the least crowded and best for families with young kids. Crowds build through the afternoon.
• ✓Pack sunscreen and hats. There's limited shade on the festival grounds and you'll be outside all day.
• ✓Wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty. The fields can be muddy if it rained recently. Sneakers or boots work better than sandals.
• ✓Bring cash for vendors. Some craft booths and food stands are cash-only, though many now take cards too.
• ✓Bring a blanket for the music stage area. Spread out on the grass and let the kids run while you listen to live music.