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7 Small Towns In Maryland That Come Alive In The Fall- World Atlas

Oakland

Vibrant autumn photo taken in Swallow Falls state park in western maryland

As a small town with an idyllic setting, Oakland is tucked between mountains in Southern Garrett County near the Deep Creek Lake. There are many reasons to believe this town is the perfect fall destination in Maryland; from scenic mountain parks and wildlife adapting to fall leaves, like the Swallow Falls State Park and Bradford Park, to a vibrant art scene in the Oakland arts & entertainment district. Engage in park activities at Deep Creek Lake State Park overlooking the Deep Creek Lake and flanked by fall trees.

Take a walk or bike on the Oakland Heritage Trail or 88 Bridge walking/biking trail to observe the wonders of the changing season, red leaves, and refreshing air. While here, travel through time at the Garrett County Museum of Transportation and Oakland B&O Railroad Museum. Take part in the town’s annual Autumn Glory Festival, celebrating fall foliage with several musical performances and art for visitors. 

more towns that were featured:

Thurmont is a small town, 10 miles from the Pennsylvania border, with a picture-perfect view at Catoctin Mountain Park, with space for everyone to explore. You can hike or cycle through the Catoctin Mountains or learn about wildlife, observing about 600 wildlife animals at the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo.

Cunningham Falls State Park, which has the largest cascading waterfalls in Maryland, spans nearly 43 acres and is known for its picturesque landscape that shines even better in fall. The lake provides recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, hunting, and camping. Visit one of Thurmont’s orchards, like the Pryors Orchard or the Catoctin Mountain Orchard, which allows visitors to pick fruits while soaking in the classic fall foliage in the small town.

Chesapeake City

Chesapeake City Bridge at Sunset, Maryland USA, Chesapeake City, Maryland
Chesapeake City Bridge at sunset, Chesapeake City, Maryland.

This enchanting small town is registered on the National Register of Historic Places for its notable landmarks like the C&D Canal Museum, excellent 19th-century architecture, and historic sites like the Chesapeake City Historic District. The town also rests at the northern end of the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States. It has a working commercial canal and is laden with abundant natural paths that change with the season.

Chesapeake City offers visitors a relaxing walk or drive through the Ben Cardin Recreational Trail or Chesapeake Wine Trails — a taste of fun and wine. You can spend all day wowing about fall foliage or discover arts, antiques, trendy wear, and ornaments in these high-spirited downtown shops like Belle on Bohemia and Old Gray Mare and Chick’s.

for full article7 Small Towns In Maryland That Come Alive In The Fall – WorldAtlas

Experience the Best of Autumn Glory Weekend in Garrett County, Maryland

As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn. Garrett County, Maryland, is known for its breathtaking fall foliage, and Autumn Glory Weekend is the ideal occasion to enjoy everything this season has to offer. Here are some fantastic things to do during this autumn celebration:

1. Autumn Glory Turkey Dinners – Preorder Deadline

  • Location: Mary Browning Community Center, 104 E Center St, Oakland, MD
  • Date: Preorder for the weekend feast
  • Don’t miss the chance to savor mouthwatering Turkey Dinners from Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc. Preorder your delectable autumn feast and celebrate the season in style.

2. “Autumn Glory” Market at Deep Creek Lake

  • Location: Shabby Patina, 6936 Sang Run Road, McHenry, MD
  • Date: October 13 and 14, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Shop for fall and year-round home decor at the “Autumn Glory” Market. Explore unique items that capture the spirit of the season at Shabby Patina, open throughout the weekend.

3. Deep Creek Marina: Autumn Glory Weekend Open House

  • Location: Deep Creek Marina Club, 2010 Deep Creek Drive, McHenry, MD
  • Date: October 13 and 15, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
  • Boating enthusiasts, take note! Deep Creek Marina is hosting an Autumn Glory Weekend Open House with incredible deals on Friday and Sunday. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to score fantastic bargains.

4. Autumn Glory Parade with HART

  • Location: Downtown Oakland, Oakland, MD
  • Date: October 14, 1:00 PM
  • Join HART in the Autumn Glory Parade and be part of the celebration! Bring your friends and enjoy the festivities as the parade winds through downtown Oakland.

5. Deep Creek Farmers Market at the Autumn Glory Weekend

  • Location: Garrett College, 687 Mosser Road, McHenry, MD
  • Date: October 15, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  • After a successful second season, the Deep Creek Farmers Market returns for a special pop-up market during Autumn Glory Weekend. Explore fresh produce and local artisanal goods.

Autumn Glory Weekend in Garrett County, Maryland, is a time to embrace the beauty of fall, indulge in delicious meals, shop for seasonal decor, and enjoy outdoor activities. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, these events are sure to make your weekend memorable. Come and experience the magic of autumn in Garrett County! 🍁🍂

Deep Creek Farmers Market Returns for Autumn Glory Weekend!

As the vibrant leaves of autumn begin to cascade from the trees, and the crisp scent of fall fills the air, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than by immersing yourself in the charm of the Deep Creek Farmers Market. After a triumphant second season, we’re thrilled to announce that the Deep Creek Farmers Market is making a special appearance during Autumn Glory weekend! Mark your calendars for October 15, 2023, as the front parking lot of Garrett College transforms into a bustling hub of local goodness from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

What to Expect:

This one-of-a-kind Deep Creek Farmers Market event promises a delightful array of offerings from more than 25 local vendors. From farm-fresh produce to plump pumpkins, juicy fruits to savory meats, farm-fresh eggs to fragrant flowers, and mouthwatering baked goods to artisanal personal care products, there’s something for everyone. And that’s not all! You can also find locally made soaps, golden honey, and delectable prepared foods that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s worth noting that the market now accepts SNAP, ensuring accessibility for all members of our community.

Entertainment for All Ages:

It’s not just about shopping; it’s about creating cherished memories with your loved ones. To enhance your experience, we’ve lined up a day of entertainment and fun. Enjoy the soothing melodies of live music performed by the talented Scott Alexander. Your little ones can have their faces painted or unleash their creativity with sidewalk chalk. It’s a family-friendly affair that’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Support Local, Shop Local:

The Deep Creek Farmers Market isn’t just a place to shop; it’s a community gathering where you can soak in the autumn ambiance and connect with friends and neighbors. By supporting local vendors, you’re not only getting high-quality, fresh products, but you’re also contributing to the growth and sustainability of our community. There’s no better way to celebrate the spirit of Autumn Glory than by indulging in the richness of our local offerings.

Conclusion:

As the leaves turn to shades of amber and gold, and the air carries the promise of cooler days, join us at the Deep Creek Farmers Market on October 15, 2023. With an abundance of fresh, locally sourced products, live music, and activities for the whole family, it’s a perfect addition to your Autumn Glory weekend plans. Come and experience the vibrant tapestry of our community and discover what all the buzz is about!

Stay updated with the latest market news by following “Deep Creek Farmers Market” on Facebook and Instagram, or reach out to us at deepcreekfarmersmarket@gmail.com. We can’t wait to see you there!

Fall 2023 Trout Stocking to Begin Across Maryland

Fishing spots to receive trout allotments in October

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will begin fall trout stocking in early October. Department crews will transport thousands of state hatchery-raised brown, golden, and rainbow trout and release them in select creeks, rivers, lakes, and ponds across the state. 

Due to several variables that can alter schedules, stocking sites and times are not announced in advance, but are available immediately afterward. Anglers are encouraged to sign up for email updates to receive the latest stocking information. 

Starting in October, anglers can call the trout stocking hotline at 800-688-3467 on Fridays for a weekly update on all locations stocked. The department publishes daily stocking updates on its trout stocking webpage and posts them on Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter. 

Illustrations comparing brook trout and brown trout

As a reminder, regulations are in effect requiring catch-and-release fishing only for brook trout in all put-and-take trout areas and all waters east of Interstate 81. Anglers should take time to properly identify brook trout, which are not stocked by the Department of Natural Resources. Some stocked streams have seasonal restrictions so anglers should consult the current Maryland Guide to Fishing and Crabbing for all regulations and restrictions.

Information on fishing licenses, trout stamps, and other related products are available on the COMPASS online licensing portal or the Department of Natural Resources Licensing and Registration Services website.

GLENDALE ROAD IS EXPECTED TO BE REOPEN TO TRAFFIC FRIDAY, 9/29/23 AND ZEDDOCK MILLER ROAD IS TEMPORARILY CLOSED

The Department of Public Works – Roads Division has been advised that Glendale Road is planned to be re-opened to traffic  on Friday, September 29, 2023.

Zeddock Miller will be temporarily closed for approximately four weeks for the purpose of completing tie in to the Glendale Road realignment. 

Alternate routes of traffic during the closure will include Paradise Point Road and Paradise Heights Road.

56th Annual Autumn Glory Festival

Enjoy the beauty of the fall season in the mountains as Garrett County celebrates the 56th anniversary of the annual Autumn Glory Festival, which features two large parades, live music, band competition, antique and craft shows from Oct. 11-15. Team One GMC is the title sponsor of the festival.

Take in the breathtaking views of the spectacular fall foliage by driving or biking one, or both, of the county’s Autumn Glory Fall Foliage tours. Head to visitdeepcreek.com/autumnglory or the Garrett County Visitors Center in McHenry to pick up the full map and directions.

On Oct. 11, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce’s annual Autumn Glory Kickoff Dinner, sponsored by UPMC Western Maryland, features networking, dinner and a recognition of the annual Autumn Glory golden ambassador.

Oct. 12 features a fireman’s parade and the week continues with the town of Oakland’s Autumn Glory Carnival, Turkey Trail dinners, royalty court, Autumn Glory sales, corn maze, farmers markets and craft and antique shows.

The Official Maryland State Banjo, Fiddle & Mandolin Championships are slated for Oct. 13 at 6 p.m. at Southern Garrett High School and will feature banjo, fiddle and mandolin contestants of all ages competing for top honors.

On Oct. 14, the town of Oakland’s annual Autumn Glory Grand Feature Parade, sponsored by First United Bank & Trust, begins at 1 p.m. Over 100 entries include floats, clowns, bands, antique vehicles and more. Saturday will also feature the Western Maryland Tournament of Bands at 6 p.m. at Southern Garrett High School with a high school field show competition.

Antique and craft shows continue throughout the county on Oct. 15 along with the Autumn Glory Festival Car Show by Mountain Top Cruisers in downtown Oakland from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more details, please log onto visitdeepcreek.com/autumnglory or call 301-387-4386.

County Commissioners Announce Public Meeting Agenda

PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
Monday, October 2, 2023
Agenda Session Times are Approximate


Meeting will also be Live Streamed at https://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/
Agenda Session Times are Approximate

The Board of County Commissioners may close a portion of this public meeting and move into Executive Session to comply with a specific constitutional, statutory, or judicial requirement that may prevent public disclosure about a particular proceeding or matter.

*To comment on agenda items – please send to comments@garrettcounty.org

3:00        Administrative Session

  • Discussion – Letter from Garrett County Planning Commission requesting amendment to the Deep Creek Watershed Zoning Ordinance prohibiting the use of shipping containers as dwelling units
  • Board Appointments
  1. Garrett County Health Planning Council – 2 Members – Three Year Terms
  2. Garrett County Mental Health Advisory Council – 1 replacement
  3. Garrett County Police Accountability Board – 1 member – Three Year Term
  • Mr. Null will review a number of administrative and managerial matters under his authority and jurisdiction with the Board of County Commissioners

4:00       Call to Order of Public Session, Invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance

               County Administrator – Additions/Deletions to Public Meeting Agenda

               Approval of Public, Administrative, and Executive Meeting Minutes

4:05       Proclamations:  I Can Swim Month – October 2023
                                       National Digital Inclusion Week – October 2-6, 2023

4:10        Recognition – Sunrise Sanitation – 45th Anniversary

4:15        Garrett County Department of Financial Services – Purchasing Division

  • Contract Award – Request for Proposal #23–0815 – Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Reports Chestnut Ridge & Jennings Sewer Collection System

4:20       Public Commentary

4:25       John H. Frank – Recognition of Director Frank’s Retirement

Adjournment of Public Session

Public Issues or concerns that are to be presented to the Board of Garrett County Commissioners during any Public Meeting should be scheduled with Carol A. Riley–Alexander, Executive Assistant to the Board of County Commissioners/County Administrator.     

The Board of Garrett County Commissioners next scheduled Public Meeting will be Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at the Garrett County Courthouse beginning at 4:00 PM.

Maryland’s Foliage makes Top ‘Hidden Gems’ list

Each Fall, images appear online showcasing some of the most stunning examples of foliage. However, many Americans are perhaps unaware of alternative ‘hidden gems’ to see Fall’s foliage.

Mixbook, a #1 rated photo book brand, carried out a survey of 3,000 respondents, asking them which under-the-radar destinations they would most like to visit to see fall foliage this year.

Maryland made the list a whopping three times. Sitting at #20 nationally is MD’s Swallow Falls State Park.

#20 Swallow Falls State Park:

Tucked away from the bustling city, its ancient hemlock and hardwood forests burst into a mesmerizing array of reds, oranges, and yellows during autumn. This off-the-beaten-path sanctuary offers not only stunning waterfalls but also a serene escape to witness the seasonal transformation.

Other locations within the state that were cited were:

#117 Gambrill State Park:

The park’s mix of oak and maple trees burst into a captivating array of red, orange, and gold hues during the autumn months, creating a picturesque contrast against the rolling hills and panoramic vistas. Its relatively undiscovered status ensures a more peaceful and authentic encounter with the changing leaves, making it an ideal destination to relish the stunning colors of fall while hiking its trails.

#150 Green Ridge State Forest:

Its vast expanse of diverse deciduous trees, from maple and oak to hickory and birch, erupts into a symphony of vibrant hues during autumn. A kaleidoscope of colors against the backdrop of the Allegheny Mountains creates an unforgettable and often overlooked seasonal spectacle.

GC Diversity and Inclusion Committee Meeting Announced

The Garrett County Diversity and Inclusion Committee is having a meeting on Wednesday September 20, 2023 from 3 PM until 4:30 PM at Garrett College in the Offutt STEM Building in Room 211. 

for more information GC Diversity and Inclusion Committee Meeting Announced – Board of Commissioners – Garrett County Government

Maryland Fall Foliage Forecast 2023

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources presents its fall foliage report as the first day of autumn approaches on the 23rd.

As autumn ushers in a boom of vibrant colors across the landscape, it’s a season that captivates our senses. The changing leaves, with their shades of orange, yellow, and red, have long been a subject of fascination and wonder. But what exactly causes this breathtaking transformation?

For years, scientists have dedicated their efforts to unraveling the intricate process behind the mesmerizing autumn foliage. According to the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service, three primary factors orchestrate this dazzling display: leaf pigments, the length of night, and the weather. Let’s dive into the science behind this natural spectacle.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources State Forest Manager, Melissa Nash, provides valuable insights into the role of leaf pigments. She explains that during the warm summer months, leaves don a vibrant green hue, courtesy of the chlorophyll pigment. However, hidden beneath this dominant green are pigments like xanthophylls and carotenes, which impart yellow to orange tones to the leaves. These are the same pigments responsible for the vibrant orange color of carrots.

The transition from the lush green of summer to the warm autumnal hues is a result of the interplay between the length of daylight and temperature. As autumn approaches, the days grow shorter, and temperatures begin to drop. These environmental cues signal to the trees that it’s time to prepare for the winter months.

Nash elucidates this process further, stating that as fall takes hold, the changes in daylight duration and decreasing temperatures disrupt the process of photosynthesis. This disruption leads to the breakdown of chlorophyll, causing the green color to fade away, revealing the underlying yellow and orange pigments. Simultaneously, some trees produce pigments called anthocyanins, which contribute to the striking red and purplish hues we associate with autumn.

for more information Maryland Fall Foliage Forecast 2023