Salisbury’s Historic Poplar Hill Mansion to Host Annual Festival This May

The acclaimed Poplar Hill Mansion Festival returns to Salisbury on May 3, 2026, featuring War of 1812 reenactors, live music, and historical demonstrations. The free event will include a special bacon celebration honoring the mansion's 1828 inventory records that documented 1,400 pounds of bacon on hand.

SALISBURY, Md. — History enthusiasts and families will have the chance to step back in time at the highly anticipated Poplar Hill Mansion Festival on Sunday, May 3, 2026, running from noon until 4 p.m.

The annual celebration will transport visitors to Salisbury’s Federal Period past with War of 1812 historical reenactments, musical performances by the Chesapeake Independent Blues, and Bill Alexander showcasing the mansion’s authentic 1810 Joshua Thurston pianoforte. The Dover Dancers will provide traditional entertainment, while local historical organizations will present educational exhibits about the area’s heritage. Young visitors can participate in hands-on crafts, games, and activities, plus enjoy traditional May Day festivities around a decorated Maypole.

A unique highlight this year centers on bacon, drawing inspiration from fascinating mansion records. Historical documents from 1828 show the household maintained an impressive 1,400 pounds of bacon in storage, reflecting the agricultural and food preservation practices of that time period.

Paying tribute to this intriguing historical detail, the Big Bad Wolf Bacon Truck will serve tasty bacon-themed treats available for purchase during the festival.

Attendees can explore Market Square’s artisan vendors offering handmade goods and participate in mansion tours led by costumed interpreters throughout the afternoon.

“This festival is a wonderful way to connect with Salisbury’s heritage while enjoying a fun, family-friendly experience,” said Sarah Meyers, Poplar Hill Mansion Curator.

Admission to the festival costs nothing, with parking provided at Bethesda Methodist Church located at Division Street and Isabella Street in the historic Newtown Neighborhood.

Festival organizers will temporarily close Elizabeth Street between Route 13 and Division Street from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to accommodate the celebration. Motorists should expect detours and plan alternate routes during these hours.

Additional details are available at https://poplarhillmansion.org/events/.