Carnivals in Maryland offer unforgettable experiences, bringing the Maryland community together and blending endless fun of entertainment, vibrant cultures, traditions, diverse cuisines, and thrilling rides. Maryland, a state known for its strong community connections where people come up to celebrate the cultural diversity through different events, festivals, fairs, and carnivals.  No matter in which state, county, or city you are living, these top 10 Carnivals in Maryland open heartedly welcome all visitors and locals to connect and experience the non-stop fun and collect cherishing memories.

1- Baltimore Washington one Carnival

An annual grand celebration, garnering hundreds of visitors from Baltimore, Washington DC, and other neighborhoods, Baltimore Washington One Carnival is a one-of-a-kind festival in Maryland. Furthermore, for those looking for free things to do in Maryland, this carnival offers an immersive and joyous experience, making it a most anticipated festival in the region. Besides, you can look into all updates and detailed information on its official website. The key highlights of the carnival to look forward are:

A rhythmic Caribbean-themed parade is the most exciting highlight of the carnival, brimming the streets of Baltimore with dynamic energy.

Caribbean cuisine

steelband performances

Caribbean music and concerts

Caribbean-styled costumes

Arts and Craft

Family-friendly activities




2- Maryland State Fair

Another beloved annual gathering, Maryland State Fair is one of the biggest carnivals in Maryland. Entertainment spectators and participants with various world-class competitions and an assortment of fun things to do and see, this grand event offers an adventurous and delightful getaway. Additionally, exciting highlights of the fair involve;

Thrilling carnival rides including Kiddie Land Rides

Seven days horse racing by expert athletes

Live Concerts featuring top class musicians and artists (Taylor Swift performing last season)

Great food and drinks selection, highlighting Maryland's specialities

Pulse-pounding motor races

Educational and fun experience of feeding birds in Pretty Bird Paradise

Cutting-edge technology Robocars

Wolves of the World Show

Cowgirl Barrel Racing and Bull Riding competition

Picture Credits: NCB Washington

Picture Credits; Maryland State Fair

There is a long list of activities and entertainment at Maryland State Fair, making it a hard choice for attendees what to see and what to miss. Moreover, other details include:

Carnival Dates: 21 August 2025 to 24 August 2025, 28 August 2025 to 1st September 2025, and 4 September 2025 to 7 September 2025

Venue: Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium, Maryland




Admission Tickets information: $15 for adults (12-61 years), $10 for kids (6-11), $12 for 61+ seniors

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3- Catoctin Colorfest

Featuring the largest crafts fest of East Coast Maryland, Catoctin Colorfest captivates thousands of visitors and locals from the state. To boot, it is one of the best free events in Maryland for all arts and craft lovers, offering them opportunities to interact with like-minded artists and find inspiration. Unlike traditional carnivals including rides, this festival has been ranked among the list of top 35 festivals in America by Sunshine Artist Magazine. Exciting attractions the the event include:

A great community gathering of around 125,000 people across Maryland

Exclusive food menu and homemade food products

A multitude of around 300 vendors all over the United States

Extensive display of local artwork, wooden work, pottery, and home decor

Vibrant display of hand-crafted jewelry

 Stunning fall foliage

Family-friendly activities and interactive exhibits for kids

A major fundraiser for charities and non-profit organizations






4- Marketplace CDC Spring Carnival

Annual community event in Baltimore, Marketplace CDC Spring Carnival is among the most joyful family-friendly carnivals in Maryland. Organized by Market Center Community Development Corporation, the festival invites people of all ages to join the non-stop entertainment in a lively atmosphere. To boot, things to look forward at the event include:

Carnival rides for all ages

Exciting games with win prizes

Live entertainment

Food stalls

Fundraising and donation for charities and non-profit organizations

Venue: Parks and People, Liberty Heights Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland

Admission Tickets Information: $7-$20 (tentative, not finalized yet)