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RIDGELY — Ridgely Town Clerk Treasurer Stephanie Berkey said planning for the town’s annual Winterfest takes place all year ‘round. That was evidenced this month, as the Ridgely Town Commission voted Monday, August 3, to bring fireworks back to the celebration for a second year. Winterfest 2026 is currently on the books for Saturday, December 12, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Berkey said the decision followed conversations with residents and Commissioners about whether the fireworks should return. While there were some concerns after last year’s display – particularly about the volume and its effect on residents’ pets – Berkey said the majority of residents responded favorably to the fireworks.
The fireworks were a first for Winterfest last year, and their reach surprised town officials. Berkey said the cold winter weather and lack of leaves on the trees amplified the sound, with residents in places like Dover, Milford and Bridgeville reporting that they heard the explosions. She also heard that the fireworks could be seen from Chesapeake College and along Route 50.
For Berkey and many who look forward to Winterfest each year, she said the fireworks provide a much-needed bang for the event to go out on (pun intended). “A lot of people said it was a really nice way to actually end the festival,” Berkey said, comparing it to the way Denton’s Summerfest event concludes with a major fireworks display.
This year’s Winterfest will again feature a wide variety of vendors and food options, two ice-skating rinks, a beer and wine garden on one side of Town Hall, a DJ and karaoke, and more. Berkey said the festival is designed to provide an affordable opportunity for families to spend time together, as admission to the festival is free.
Ridgely is continuing to seek financial support for the event. While business sponsorships are alwa
ys nice, Berkey said she will accept any amount from anyone who wants to contribute, even if it is just five dollars. According to Berkey, the Winterfest event costs approximately $50,000 to put on. Sponsorship information and online donations are available through the Christmas in Ridgely website.
Funding has been a concern in previous years. Ridgely’s Commissioners ultimately decided to proceed with the event this year, but Berkey said the coming months will be important for determining the festival’s future. If the organizers cannot reach the $50,000 goal this year, she said, the town may have to reconsider whether it can continue holding the event in future years as town tax revenue cannot be used to fund it.
For now, Berkey’s focus is on alerting residents about the fireworks. She said the town is even printing a notice on residents’ water bills. “We’re trying to give people enough information in advance,” Berkey said. “Hopefully it will be enjoyed by everyone.”
