SOLOMONS, Md. – The Calvert Marine Museum is kicking off the new year with a variety of engaging programs for all ages this January. Families can enjoy returning favorites like First Fossil Friday and hands-on early childhood programs, while history enthusiasts can dive deeper through special tours and educational experiences.
The museum will also commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a special Black Watermen & Oystermen program highlighting the stories and legacy of Black watermen along the Chesapeake.
The month wraps up with the exciting launch of this season’s Maritime Performance Series, featuring the Ken Kolodner Quartet. For the full calendar of January events, visit our website www.calvertmarinemuseum.com
Thursday, Jan. 1 – New Year’s Day
The Calvert Marine Museum and Museum Store will be closed on New Year’s Day. We will reopen at 10 a.m. on Friday, January 2.
Friday, Jan. 2 – First Fossil Friday! | 1 to 4:30 p.m.
Fossil hunters, bring your fossil finds from Calvert Cliffs or other local areas to be identified! This service is provided for free; however, admission fees apply for access to CMM exhibits.
Thursday, Jan. 8 – Sea Squirts | 10:15 and 11:15 a.m.
This month’s theme is Lighthouse. Children 18 months to 3 years, with an adult, are invited to discover the museum together through music, stories, and special activities. Join us for story time and a craft, available while supplies last. Sessions are 25 to 40 minutes. Cost is free with museum admission. Sign up at the Admissions Desk when you arrive. Sea Squirts | Calvert Marine Museum, MD – Official Website
Sundays, Jan. 4, 11, 18, and 25 – Beyond the Displays: Artifact Stories | 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Join museum educator Lori to explore the museum’s artifacts, uncovering their origins and significance. Hear how World War II shaped Solomons and discover hidden details in the museum murals. Learn something new every tour. Included with museum admission.
Sunday, Jan. 11 – Creature Feature | 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.
Meet a mystery animal not normally on display at the museum. Each month, the CMM Education team highlights a different creature found in local estuaries. Take-home coloring pages available. Included with museum admission.
Thursdays, Jan. 15 & 22 – Little Minnows | 10:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.
This month’s theme is Lighthouse. For preschoolers ages 3–5, with an adult. This program focuses on one of the museum’s three themes. Join us for story time and craft, available while supplies last. Sessions are 25 – 40 minutes. Sign up at the Admissions Desk when you arrive. Included with museum admission. For more information, visit: Little Minnows | Calvert Marine Museum, MD – Official Website
Monday, Jan. 19 – Black Watermen & Oystermen of the Chesapeake | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Join us as we share the stories of Black Oystermen and Watermen along the Chesapeake. Learn about the Eastern Oyster, Chesapeake boat types, and what it was like to make a living working on the water or in a historic oyster packing house. Make your own oyster craft and take away a bit of inspiration on this annual Day of Service. Included in museum admission.
Tuesday, Jan. 20 – CMM Members Save 20% in the Museum Store | 10:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
CMM members enjoy a 20% discount in the Museum Store today and on the 20th of every month. Purchases can be shipped via USPS, Priority Mail, or held at the store for curbside pickup. For more information, visit: Museum Store | Calvert Marine Museum, MD – Official Website
Sunday, Jan. 25 – Fossil Club Meeting & Free Public Lecture | 1:30 & 2:30 p.m.
Join us in the museum’s Harms Gallery for the CMM Fossil Club meeting at 1:30 p.m., followed by a free lecture at 2:30 p.m. Dr. Briana Pobiner of the Smithsonian Institution will present “The Role of Scavenging in Human Evolution.”
Friday, Jan. 30 – Maritime Performance Series: Ken Kolodner Quartet | 7 to 9 p.m.
Experience the acclaimed father-son duo Ken and Brad Kolodner as they blend hammered dulcimer and clawhammer banjo into a fresh take on old-time bluegrass and American roots music. Joined by bassist Alex Lacquement and multi-instrumentalist Rachel Eddy, the quartet delivers a driving, innovative acoustic sound. Doors open at 6 p.m. with beverages available for purchase. Tickets are $20 online up to one day in advance, and $25 online or at the door on concert day. Maritime Performance Series ’26 Ken Kolodner
Explore how the prehistoric past, natural environments, and maritime heritage come to life and tell a unique story of the Chesapeake Bay. The Calvert Marine Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $11 for adults, $9 for seniors, military, and veterans with valid I.D, AAA and AARP members, $6 for children ages 5 – 12, children under 5 and museum members are admitted free. Proud participant in Museums for ALL. For more information about the museum, upcoming events, or membership, visit the website at www.calvertmarinemuseum.com