Upcoming Events

Annual Events

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Camp David, the Presidential Retreat, is located in the Catoctin Mountains of Frederick County, near Thurmont. Camp David became the official Presidential Retreat in 1942, when President Franklin Roosevelt approved the site which he named Shangri-La. Among the important historical events that have occurred here were the 1979 meetings that resulted in the Camp David Accords.

Listed below are events that the Historical Society of Frederick County hosts and/or participates in throughout the year. Events are subject to change.

Roger Brooke Taney House Recognition Luncheon
The Roger B. Taney House Recognition Luncheon fundraiser is offered each spring. Past keynote speakers include the late Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist, retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, and NPR legal commentator David Cole. Each year an honor or tribute is offered to a special volunteer who has been instrumental in the historic site’s preservation and operation. Tickets go on sale about one month prior to the luncheon.

Jazz in the Garden
The Jazz in the Garden event is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy live jazz music, dancing, delicious hors d’oeuvres and desserts, cash bar, and great fun in the Historical Society’s beautiful Heritage Garden. Past themes include the 1920s and 1940s, and a highlight of the event is the costume contest (costumes are not required). The annual fundraiser is usually held in late July with advance tickets going on sale in early June.

Old Time Ice Cream Social
The Historical Society’s annual Ice Cream Social in August has become a popular summer tradition. Root beer floats, Dusty Road sundaes, and other sweet treats are served up in the Heritage Garden by the Society’s own “soda jerks.” Music, special exhibits, and crafts and activities for children also are offered. The event is absolutely free and all are invited to attend.

Treasured Heirloom Event
Each November for the past seven years people have gather up their family keepsakes, cherished collectibles, and mysterious yard sale finds and come out for the Historical Society’s annual Treasured Heirloom Event. The event is the region’s biggest and best antiques and collectibles evaluation event. Experts are on hand to offer information and a verbal estimation of value of objects including clocks, folk art, fine art, furniture, jewelry, militaria, quilts, paper items, photographs, toys, vintage clothing, general antiques, and more. Tickets for evaluations may be purchased at the event.

Museums by Candlelight
The Historical Society’s Museum and Roger B. Taney House participate in the annual Museums by Candlelight event sponsored by the Frederick Historic Sites consortium. The themes change each year, and past themes include Holidays by Candlelight, Christmas in the 20th Century, Holiday Customs from Around the World, and 19th Century Christmas. The free event is held in mid-December.