PINEY POINT, Md. — Families across Southern Maryland are invited to step into history while making new memories at FamilyFest on the Potomac, happening Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum and Historic Park.
This annual community celebration brings neighbors and visitors together for live music, local food, children’s activities and free admission to one of the region’s most historic landmarks. Hosted by the Friends of St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Lighthouse Museum in partnership with St. Mary’s County Government’s Museum Division, the festival helps preserve the lighthouse and grounds for future generations through donations and memberships.
First built in 1836, Piney Point stands as the oldest lighthouse on the Potomac River. Once a beacon for mariners traveling between the Chesapeake Bay and Washington, D.C., the site now welcomes families to explore its restored museum and scenic park. During FamilyFest, visitors can enjoy the lighthouse’s maritime history alongside the vibrancy of today’s community with music, food, vendors and hands-on activities for kids.
What You’ll Find at FamilyFest
FamilyFest is about more than just entertainment — it’s about community. Stroll through rows of local vendors and artisans, grab a treat from one of the food stands, and let the kids dive into hands-on activities throughout the day.
- Live music by Sax Appeal sets the tone for a relaxing afternoon, filling the riverside grounds with smooth sounds that families can enjoy while browsing vendors, sharing a meal or simply soaking in the view.
- Children’s story time with the St. Mary’s County Library begins at 1 p.m.
- Food and sweets include Mzz Tee’s Sweet Treats, Crabby Corn Kettle Corn, Mimi’s Sweet Shop, Sweet Caribbean Bakery, Kona Ice and Mouth of the Bay.
- Local makers and vendors feature Courteau Vineyards, G’s Core Blend, Drayden Wood Studio, Handmade by Meg, Hooked with Love, Purple Frequencies, Precious Armour, Spin It Again, Farm.Fork.Soul and more.
- Community organizations like SMECO, the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail and the Chesapeake Chapter U.S. Lighthouse Society will be on hand with interactive displays.
Where Neighbors Come Together
FamilyFest has become a favorite end-of-summer tradition because it brings people together in a way that’s relaxed, affordable and fun for all ages. It’s a chance to see neighbors, meet local makers, support small businesses and enjoy the view of the Potomac River — all while the kids stay entertained and engaged.
Whether you’re coming for the lighthouse history, the live music or the food trucks, you’ll leave with memories made right here in Southern Maryland.
Parking & Getting There
Parking will be free at Piney Point Elementary School, 44550 Tall Timbers Road, Tall Timbers, MD 20690. A continuous shuttle service will run between the school and the museum, starting at 9 a.m. The final shuttle departs the museum at 4:30 p.m.
Please note, there is no public parking at the lighthouse itself, except for vehicles with handicap permits.
Know Before You Go
- The grounds are smoke-free.
- An ATM is available in the main museum building.
- Only service animals are allowed inside buildings.
- Admission: Free
- Date & Time: Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025 (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
- Location: Piney Point Lighthouse Museum, 44720 Lighthouse Road, Piney Point, MD 20674
- Updates: Facebook event page
Learn more about the museum at the official website or follow updates on the Piney Point Lighthouse Facebook page.
A Glimpse of History at Piney Point
First lit in 1836, Piney Point is the oldest lighthouse on the Potomac River. Built by master lighthouse builder John Donahoo, the 35-foot tower once guided ships traveling between Washington, D.C., and the Chesapeake Bay. Today, the site includes museum exhibits, the restored keeper’s quarters, maritime artifacts and even Maryland’s first historic shipwreck dive preserve — the German U-1105 submarine.
Learn more about the Piney Point Lighthouse Museum & Historic Park and its maritime history at the official website.
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