Annapolis, Md.—Governor Wes Moore hosted the 2025 Governor’s Buy Local Cookout on July 18 at the Maryland Department of Agriculture, marking the start of Maryland Buy Local Week, running from July 17 to July 27. The event promotes the Buy Local Challenge, encouraging Marylanders to include at least one locally grown, produced, or harvested product in their daily meals to support the state’s agriculture and seafood industries.
Celebrating Maryland’s Agricultural Heritage
The Buy Local Challenge, launched in 2006 by the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission, has grown into a statewide initiative. It highlights the importance of supporting local farmers, producers, and watermen. “There is no Maryland without Maryland agriculture. Our incredible chefs, farmers, producers, and watermen keep us fed, protect the environment, and grow our economy,” said Governor Wes Moore. “When we buy local, we aren’t just investing in small businesses. We’re uplifting our shared heritage and securing the future of our state for generations to come”.
Maryland’s agriculture and seafood sectors are economic powerhouses, contributing over $16 billion annually, according to a 2022 Salisbury University study. The state’s 12,550 farms span 1.9 million acres, with poultry as the top commodity, per the 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture. The seafood industry supports more than 2,000 jobs, particularly on the Eastern Shore.
Highlights of the Buy Local Cookout
The 2025 Governor’s Buy Local Cookout featured eleven chef’s tents showcasing dishes made with local ingredients, representing restaurants from across Maryland. Guests enjoyed oyster samples, fresh BBQ chicken, and farm-fresh ice cream from the Maryland’s Best Ice Cream Trail. Live music and exhibits from Maryland Department of Agriculture programs added to the festive atmosphere, emphasizing the Buy Local Challenge’s role in connecting consumers with local producers. “Making the conscious choice to eat and drink locally keeps our economy humming,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks.
Engaging Marylanders in the Buy Local Challenge
The Buy Local Challenge encourages Marylanders to incorporate local products into their meals during the 10-day celebration and beyond. To participate, residents can shop at farmers’ markets, grocery stores, wineries, or breweries for Maryland-grown products. A contest invites participants to share photos of their Buy Local Challenge purchases on Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #BuyLocalChallenge for a chance to win an insulated tote and social media feature.
Supporting Local Economies Year-Round
The Buy Local Challenge fosters long-term support for Maryland’s agricultural community. “Our goal is to reach every person in the state and encourage them to support our farmers, growers, and watermen by enjoying Maryland’s Best food and beverage—not only during our 10-day celebration, but over the course of a lifetime,” said Secretary Atticks. Resources to find local products and farmers’ markets are available at https://marylandsbest.net, supporting the Buy Local Challenge’s mission to strengthen Maryland’s economy and heritage.
