Maryland Board Sets New Guidelines for Festival Permits and Local Brewing Sales

The Board of License Commissioners for Caroline County convened on August 27, 2025, to discuss the regulations and logistics surrounding festival permits for the sale of alcoholic beverages. The meeting focused on the number of permits available, the types of beverages allowed, and the specific conditions under which festivals can be held.

The board outlined that the number of festival permits allotted each year can range from one to three, typically scheduled during weekends in the summer months. It was emphasized that festivals must not conflict with existing annual events in Maryland, with a list of such festivals provided for reference. For example, Washington County allows a maximum of 26 days for its beer and wine street festival, highlighting the variability in regulations across jurisdictions.

The discussion also covered the scope of authorization for festival permits, which generally allows for the display and sale of beer and wine produced in any state but distributed in Maryland. Specific requirements vary, with some jurisdictions mandating that beer must be brewed by breweries producing fewer than 60,000 barrels annually. Additionally, counties like Garrett, Howard, Somerset, and Wicomico have specific regulations regarding the sale of locally produced beverages.

The board noted that most jurisdictions permit license holders to hold multiple licenses of different classes. Eleven jurisdictions require that festivals primarily promote Maryland-made wine and beer. The cost of festival permits was also addressed, ranging from $15 to $200, with some jurisdictions imposing daily fees.

A significant point of discussion was the requirement that festival locations must not already be licensed for similar events. This stipulation was highlighted in relation to potential festivals at venues like Calaborn, which already holds a license. The board acknowledged the need for Caroline County to establish clear provisions for hosting festivals, particularly in light of requests from local farmers interested in hosting events.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the distinction between festivals and fairs, noting that fairs often operate as non-profit organizations on county-owned property, while festivals may vary in their profit status. The board recognized the importance of understanding local zoning requirements for festivals, particularly in municipalities like Denton.

Overall, the meeting underscored the need for clear guidelines and regulations to facilitate the hosting of festivals in Caroline County, ensuring compliance with state laws while promoting local agricultural and tourism initiatives. Further steps will be taken to develop these provisions in the coming months.