SOLOMONS, Md. — The Calvert Marine Museum will host SHARKFEST on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., celebrating the ocean’s apex predators with a day of family-friendly activities, live shark displays, and educational presentations. The annual event, one of the museum’s most popular, will offer hands-on learning, crafts, and new attractions focused on sharks at its Solomons campus.
Visitors can view live sharks up close at the outdoor Corbin Nature Pavilion and engage in activities across the museum grounds. New features this year include a shark fin puzzle, a shark skin learning station, and an exploration of shark parasites. Children can participate in free face painting, search for fossils outdoors, and create shark-themed crafts to take home. The Discovery Room will be closed, but the event will provide ample opportunities for all ages to explore marine life.
Three presentations are scheduled in the Harms Gallery: “A Shark’s Tooth Journey” with the book’s author, “Meet the Aquarist” detailing the care of marine animals, and “The Meg Talk” by Dr. Victor Perez on prehistoric sharks. The museum will also welcome Tanya Griffin Houppermans, an internationally acclaimed underwater image maker and shark naturalist, who will share her expertise through stunning imagery to promote ocean conservation.
Food vendors, including Dan D’s Catering and Rita’s Italian Ice, will be on-site to provide meals and refreshments. The Museum Store will offer shark-themed toys, books, and souvenirs, with a 10% discount for members. Guests can also play “Guess How Many” to win a shark-themed prize.
Admission is free for museum members, but complimentary passes will not be accepted, and strollers or wagons are prohibited during the event. Advance tickets are recommended for non-members to secure entry. For membership details, visitors can stop by the membership table during SHARKFEST or visit the museum’s website.
SHARKFEST highlights the museum’s mission to educate the public about marine ecosystems, with sharks as a focal point due to their critical role in ocean health. The event draws families and marine enthusiasts to explore exhibits showcasing the Chesapeake Bay’s ecological and historical significance, including fossil displays and aquariums. Houppermans’ participation underscores the museum’s commitment to conservation, aligning with its ongoing efforts to protect regional waterways.
The Calvert Marine Museum, established in 1970, serves as a cultural and educational hub in Southern Maryland, housing artifacts, aquariums, and maritime history exhibits. SHARKFEST, a staple since its inception, continues to grow, adding new activities each year to engage younger audiences and foster appreciation for marine science. The 2025 event is expected to attract a diverse crowd, from residents to tourists visiting Calvert County.
Organizers advise early ticket purchases due to high demand. The event’s schedule, from mid-morning to late afternoon, allows ample time to explore the grounds and enjoy the presentations. With a mix of interactive stations, expert talks, and family activities, SHARKFEST aims to provide an informative and entertaining experience for all attendees.
