The Victorian Chautauqua Festival

The Victorian Chautauqua Festival is a free weekend celebration of Mountain Lake Park, Maryland's first Chautauqua resort community built along the B&O Railroad in 1881.

The weekend is an immersive experience filled with live performances of historical figures, music, and lectures on fascinating topics. You'll also enjoy browsing Artisan Row's hand-made goods, touring the Historic District's original cottages in the Town Trolley, and capturing yourself or your family in an authentic tintype photograph. Make time for a stroll through The Park to enjoy the full Victorian era. 

RIDES FOR FREE
Saturday will feature authentic Ford Model-Ts and rides, as well as a vintage car show. Sunday features horse-drawn carriage rides pulled by impressive black Percheron horses. 

KIDS RULE
Bring the entire family! Kid-Tauqua is running full steam all day with activities like face painting, tie-dying, make 'n' take, music, puppet making, dress-up, bubble making, Punch & Judy Shows, and guitar lessons. The little ones can also bring their swimsuits and play on the beloved Splash Pad for hours of fun in the sun. 

CONTESTS
Don't forget to bring your competitive spirit. Saturday's renowned Beard & Mustache Contest and Women's Victorian Hat Competition invite contestants to win the 2025 coveted trophy cups. Watch out for those defending champions!

BETHEL CENTER
New this year! Bethel Center, the restored African American Church, will be open to the public. Two performances will take place including Maryland's Poet Laureaut, Lady Brion. And don't forget Vaudeville In The Street, which has an incredible lineup of music and unusual acts. Two street performers include our Victorian embellished stilt-walker and Lars, the contact juggler of Instagram fame. Be sure to wave to the high-wheel cyclist as he passes by. 

TICKET OFFICE MUSEUM
Make time to visit the Ticket Office Museum, which is housed in the octagonal original building. It was initially used to sell tickets to performances at the former Bashford Amphitheater. The opulent collection of photos and objects includes a timeline, influential people, and the lifestyle of early Mountain Lake Park. 

Each year, the festival grows with additions and improvements. Leo Martin Memorial Park has brand new permanent restrooms, which will be open throughout the weekend.