In 1989, Maryland officially designated the blue crab, Callinectes Sapidus Rathburn as it's state crustacean. It's scientific name translates to "beautiful swimmer that is savory" which is an apt description of this delicious crab.
Some of the most popular seafood festivals include the Maryland Seafood Festival, which takes place in Annapolis every September, and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum OysterFelt held in St. Michaels in October.
The National Hard Crab Derby and Fair held in "Maryland's Crab Capital of the World," Crisfield, during Labor Day weekend has been a tradition for the past 75 years.
Nothing says "Maryland" quite like an "all you can eat" crab feast. While some restaurants offer these throughout the year, they are specially popular during the summer months.
These feasts typically include steamed crabs and a variety of seafood dishes. Many restaurants also offer beer specials so that guests can wash down their meal with a cold brew.
Maryland natives know how fun and delicious a good old-fashioned crab picking party can be. For crab lovers, the sight of bushels of crabs is an absolute delight.