Oyster Roast, Sock Burning Event Welcomes Spring In Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park hosted its oyster roast and sock burning last Saturday afternoon. The annual event bids farewell to winter and ushers in spring. Winter ended on Saturday, and spring started on Sunday.

“Say goodbye to winter, only deck shoes we wear!" says a poem recited at each year's gathering. "Though the socks we burn leave a stink in the air!"

Tickets sold out within two weeks of announcing the festivities.

“There is nothing more authentic and unique to Annapolis than the ritual of burning socks, started right here in Eastport,” museum President and CEO Alice Estrada said in a press release. “This beloved event brings the community together and raises funds for our important environmental education programs, which serve over 12,000 students annually.”

Gov. Larry Hogan attended the ritual with his wife, Yumi Hogan. He enjoyed the local seafood and shared the video above.

"The First Lady and I had a wonderful time at the annual Annapolis Oyster Roast and Sock Burning," the governor said on Facebook. "It was great to see so many Annapolitans and enjoy some Maryland oysters."

County Executive Steuart Pittman was also there. Pittman declared the day an unofficial holiday.

"Thanks to everyone who came out to burn your winter-worn socks and celebrate the warm weather," the county executive posted on Facebook. "I was glad to join you and to recognize this Annapolis tradition with a proclamation declaring today as Sock Burning Day in Anne Arundel County."

This was the first time the museum hosted its celebration since the pandemic started.

"Thank you to everyone who came out and made it a huge success, especially our incredible sponsors," the museum said in a Facebook post. "Your support helps propel our mission to educate youth and adults about the Annapolis area’s rich maritime heritage and the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay."

Residents can learn more about the Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park by visiting amaritime.org.

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