The Town of North Beach has decided to pause its First Friday event series following a public disturbance at the May 1 event that led to the arrest of two minors.
According to the town, the May 1 gathering saw what law enforcement described as a “teen takeover,” creating an unsafe atmosphere and affecting public safety. Following an investigation by the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, two minors were arrested for delinquent acts connected to the incident.
Out of an abundance of caution, the town has canceled the June 5 First Friday event while it finalizes and implements enhanced safety protocols and operational procedures. The town expects to resume the event series on July 10, 2026, once the new measures are in place.
Mayor Michael Benton said safety remains the top priority and that the town took time to review the facts before making decisions about future events. He acknowledged that the pause will affect vendors, local businesses, and residents who support the series.
“First Fridays remains an important community event that supports local businesses, community engagement, and tourism,” the town stated. “The town remains committed to its safe and orderly return following the implementation of enhanced safety measures.”
The town said it will resume direct communication with vendors next week and plans to share updated safety and operational protocols with the public in June. It reserves the right to cancel future events if public safety concerns arise.
Details regarding the May 1 incident should be directed to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, which is leading the investigation.
The town’s beach remains open daily from 8 a.m. until dusk or 8 p.m., whichever comes first.
