Events from January 1 – July 26 – Boldly Discover!

Wisp Resort’s 70th Anniversary Season (Winter 2026)

Geoffrey N — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Throughout the 2026 ski season, Wisp is celebrating 70 years of Maryland skiing.

Insider Tip: Look for the “Platinum Wednesday” deals ($19 lift tickets) running through March 2026.

The Deep Creek Dunk (February 19–21, 2026)

Geoffrey N — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000

A Garrett County Tradition

The lake’s biggest winter party. Thousands gather to watch “Dunkers” plunge into the icy water for the Special Olympics. Great for a high-energy YouTube vlog!

Special Olympics MD Winter Games (February 22–24, 2026)

Geoffrey N — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Cheer on athletes at Wisp Resort for alpine skiing and snowshoeing competitions.

Tentative Schedule

Sunday, Feb 22: Time Trials (2:00 PM – 4:45 PM) & Opening Ceremonies (7:00 PM – 8:00 PM).
Monday, Feb 23: Finals (9:00 AM – 4:30 PM).
Tuesday, Feb 24: Finals (9:00 AM – 2:30 PM).

Geoffrey N — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000

Wisp Resort in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, often hosts Easter events like Easter Egg Hunts & Brunches, featuring kids’ hunts by age group (often with special prizes like season passes) and themed buffets with bunnies, typically in April; check their official events page or social media for the latest Wisp Resort Easter Events schedule as dates and details vary annually, but it’s a popular family activity in the area.

Deep Creek Lake Team Trivia (Thursdays in April)

Geoffrey N — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000

Local favorites like Ace’s Run host competitive trivia nights—a great way to mingle with the DCL community.

Event Details:

When: Thursdays in April (e.g., April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30).
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Where: Ace’s Run, Deep Creek Lake.
Focus: Questions centered on Deep Creek Lake history and area knowledge.
Prizes: Included a custom DCL100 award for weekly winners.

What to Expect:

Wagering rounds and a final question.
Half-time bonus questions.
“Answer of the Week” for free points on social media.
Food and drink available.

Garrett County Celtic Festival (June 6, 2026)

Geoffrey N — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 14:30:00 +0000

The annual Garrett County Celtic Festival celebrates the heritage, art, and culture of Appalachian immigrants from Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and Brittany. The day-long festival along the bonnie banks of the Youghiogheny River in the village of Friendsville is a fun event for the whole family! Activities include:

* Musical performances by IONA, Aurora Celtic, Lynne Dale, Greg Latta
* The Duffy School of Irish Dance, Potomac Highlands Scottish Country Dancers
* Multiple pipes and drums bands
* Highland Athletes
* Sheepherding demonstrations
* History and storytelling
* Glen of Clans
* Childrens’ activities
* Artisan Marketplace

Rain or shine! There are many covered areas throughout the park in the event of inclement weather. Free parking, facilities ADA accessible. Tickets $15 for adults, students 5-18 $5, children under 4 are free. Discounted advance tickets available at gccelticfestival.com.

Fire on the Mountain Fireworks (July 4, 2026)

Geoffrey N — Sat, 04 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

The “Fire on the Mountain” Fireworks for July 4, 2026, will be held at Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, launching from Wisp Resort over Marsh Mountain, offering spectacular views over the lake for this special 250th anniversary of American Independence, organized by the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. Expect a large-scale event, with fireworks lighting up the sky at the popular vacation spot.

Key Details:

Location: Deep Creek Lake, Wisp Resort, McHenry, MD.
Time: July 4, 2026 (specific time for fireworks usually starts after dusk).
Organizer: Garrett County Chamber of Commerce.
Viewing: Best spots are around McHenry Cove and the northern end of the lake.

This event celebrates America’s 250th birthday, so it’s expected to be a major celebration, drawing crowds to the area.

Victorian Chautauqua (July 11–12, 2026)

Geoffrey N — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

The Victorian Chautauqua is an annual heritage festival in Mountain Lake Park, Maryland, celebrating the late 19th-century Chautauqua movement with historical reenactments, live performances, lectures, music, carriage rides, and artisan crafts, with plans for the July 11–12, 2026, event already in motion, offering a glimpse into a bygone era with free admission and family-friendly activities.

Garrett County Agriculture Fair (July 25 – August 1, 2026)

Geoffrey N — Sun, 26 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

More than just a carnival and entertainment, the Garrett County Agriculture Fair is an exhibition for our local agriculture community. A showcase for our passionate local makers, gardeners, photographers, and various other skills and talents. An annual gathering that locals cherish, where friends and family come together, and new friendships are made.

Deep Creek Lake Art, Wine & Spirits Festival (September 11–12, 2026)

Geoffrey N — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 04:00:00 +0000

The perfect autumn weekend getaway in the mountains of Western Maryland in beautiful Deep Creek Lake, MD! The 22nd annual Deep Creek Lake Art, Wine & Spirits Festival features beautifully handcrafted works by local and regional artisans, 200 regional, national, and international wines to taste, craft bourbon, whiskey, tequila, and more, our popular Football lounge to watch college football games and purchase beer on tap, a cigar bar, live entertainment, food, wine & spirits store, lodging packages and more, all set in the beautiful mountains of western Maryland. All proceeds benefit HART for Animals.