Set on the edge of the Chesapeake Bay region, Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center offers an uncommon blend of natural beauty and artistic expression. Every year, ArtsFest transforms this vast outdoor venue in Lusby, Maryland, into a lively gathering where sculptures meet spirited creativity among tranquil woodland trails. The event carries an air of adventure, inviting everyone from casual families to dedicated art enthusiasts to engage with art in the fresh air.

The site spans nearly 30 acres of forested paths, open meadows, and waterfront edges. The terrain is mostly gentle with short elevation shifts that encourage exploration rather than challenge. Expect well-maintained gravel and dirt trails winding past massive sculptures that seem to have their own personalities—trees that lean in as if to observe, ponds that shimmer knowingly in the sun, and sculptures that dare you to consider creativity beyond canvases.

ArtsFest typically runs during a weekend in early fall when weather leans cool and dry—ideal for walking with a light jacket. Art vendors, live music, interactive workshops, and food trucks bring an active, buzzing pulse to the garden without overwhelming the natural calm. Local artists exhibit hand-crafted works, offering visitors the chance to purchase unique pieces or witness the creative process firsthand.

For those planning your visit, waterproof walking shoes are advised as some trails skirt wetlands where the earth holds brief puddles from recent rains. Bring a refillable water bottle—hydration stations appear but carry water if you plan to linger. Arriving early in the day helps avoid crowds and lets you fully absorb the fresh air, the scent of pine and hardwood, and the occasional flutter of local birds.

This isn’t just a walk in the woods—it’s a two-way conversation between visitor and environment. Sculptures invite your imagination, while the garden’s natural features—sheltering oaks, a whispering creek, and open skies—push you toward reflection and discovery. ArtsFest allows you to engage sights, sounds, and even textures, rewarding active observers with a balanced day of cultural engagement and outdoor time.

Whether you’re here to buy a piece of art, get outdoors, or take family photos in a creative setting, Annmarie Sculpture Garden's ArtsFest offers a grounded adventure. It’s accessible, exhilarating, and sized to allow time for a picnic, a hike, and maybe a quiet moment watching a sculpture catch the light as the sun starts to dip. Understanding both the space and the event helps you get the most from your visit—this is a celebration of art that, like any worthy adventure, demands respect, preparedness, and curiosity.