Discover Easton Director’s Report

October 2019- In case you hadn’t noticed the harvest decorations, busy landscapers, public works, and utilities teams, and the bubbling hum throughout town, the 49th annual Waterfowl Festival is upon us. This celebration of all things Eastern Shore has put a positive spotlight on Easton now for generations, and we are so excited to kick off another wonderful weekend of people from across the globe shopping, dining, and experiencing all that Easton has to offer.

In addition, we’ll be bringing back the Waterfowl Windows contest, a friendly competition among our local retailers and businesses to dress up their storefronts for the weekend and earn the title of the best decorator for the 49th annual Waterfowl Festival. Be sure throughout the weekend to visit the participating shops and vote for your favorite by posting a picture to social media with the hashtag #WaterfowlWindows.

While you are out and about, be sure to stop by the corner of Dover and Harrison Sts. where we will be showcasing a live ice carving in preparation for the Chesapeake Fire & Ice Festival from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Saturday, November 9. This carving by the professionals from Ice Lab will feature a Waterfowl-themed design in the garden of the Bullitt House and will be a wonderful display for visitors both young and old to see how the carvings are constructed. Also, a special thanks to our presenting sponsor for the upcoming Chesapeake Fire & Ice Festival, Preston Automotive Group, who will also have a presence near the sculpture on Saturday.

Finally, in other news, we are happy to announce that we have been selected to receive a $25,000 wayfinding grant from the State of Maryland. This money will go toward necessary improvements in pedestrian signage in the downtown commercial area. More details on this project will be disseminated as it progresses.

So bring out the new products, refreshments, and get ready for what is sure to be another wonderful Waterfowl Festival in historic Easton!