The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC), a division of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, is excited to announce the launch of Maryland’s Buy Local Week, running from July 17 to July 27, 2026.
This statewide initiative encourages all Marylanders to make a simple commitment: buy at least one local product every day for the duration of the challenge. By choosing locally grown and produced foods, residents can directly support Maryland agriculture and celebrate the state’s vibrant farming community.
From roadside farm stands and bustling farmers’ markets to wineries, breweries, distilleries, dairies, creameries, local grocery stores, and eateries, the campaign highlights Maryland’s incredibly diverse, farm-fresh offerings.
How to Participate & Take the Pledge – To join the movement, residents are encouraged to visit the official Buy Local Challenge Website to make their pledge today. The website serves as your go-to hub offering:
- Pledge Certificates & Media Kits: Downloadable certificates and social media resources to show off your local pride.
- Tips, original recipes, and access to “In a Cook’s Kitchen”—a series of online cooking classes demonstrating how to prepare meals using fresh, local ingredients.
Snap, Share, and Win: The #BuyLocalChallenge26 Contest – Participants can turn their local shopping trips into prizes! To enter the photo contest, simply take a picture of your locally sourced purchases and post it to Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #BuyLocalChallenge26.
What to feature in your photos:
- Produce & Florals: Fresh fruits, veggies, herbs, and cut flowers.
- Dairy & Meats: Local cheese, milk, ice cream, yogurt, meat, and poultry.
- Chesapeake Seafood: Crabs, oysters, finfish, and wild-caught Chesapeake Blue Catfish.
- Beverages: Maryland-grown wines, craft beers, and spirits.
- Artisanal Goods: Jams, jellies, pickles, salsas, and fresh baked goods or desserts.
The Prizes: Ten (10) lucky winners will receive a special ‘Buy Local’ insulated tote bag packed with local goodies, and their winning photographs will be showcased on SMADC’s and Maryland’s Best social media platforms.
Other Ways to Celebrate
- Dine Out Local: Looking to grab a bite? Check out Maryland-approved restaurants that prioritize sourcing from local farms by visiting the Maryland’s Best EAT WELL, BUY LOCAL Blog.
- Join the Festivities: Attend the in-person Buy Local Challenge Celebration hosted at Lyon Family Farms in Mechanicsville, MD.
About the Program – Created by the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC), a division of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland, the Buy Local Challenge is promoted in partnership with the Maryland Department of Agriculture. Together, these organizations aim to elevate, celebrate, and financially support Maryland’s hard-working food producers.
Stay connected throughout the week by following the Maryland Buy Local Challenge on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates, resources, and inspiration.
