All 50 States to Compete for America’s 250th Anniversary Bragging Rights at the 79th Annual National Hard Crab Derby Governor’s Cup Crab Race

Crisfield, MD — This Labor Day Weekend, September 3–6, residents of Maryland have a unique opportunity to rally behind their very own state-themed racing crab as the 79th Annual National Hard Crab Derby welcomes competitors from all 50 states for the Governor’s Cup Crab Race, taking place Saturday, September 5, at 2:30 p.m. in beautiful Crisfield, Maryland—the Seafood Capital of the World.

Each state will be represented by a specially named blue crab celebrating its home state. “No More Mr. Nice Claw” will race on behalf of Maryland, competing not only for victory but also for statewide bragging rights during America’s 250th Anniversary celebration.

The winning state will earn the distinction of having the fastest crab in America, giving its residents a fun and memorable title to celebrate throughout the nation’s historic semiquincentennial year.

State-themed racing crabs will be officially introduced on the National Hard Crab Derby’s social media channels leading up to the event and announced live during race day festivities. Organizers encourage residents, alumni, civic organizations, businesses, tourism officials, elected leaders, and anyone with state pride to assemble a cheering section and make the trip to Crisfield to support their home state’s crab.

“This is a lighthearted competition that brings together every corner of the country while celebrating one of Maryland’s most beloved traditions,” said LeeAnn Linton, Derby Chair. “Whether you’re traveling from Maryland or another state, everyone can cheer for their state’s crab as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary together.”

For nearly eight decades, the National Hard Crab Derby has been one of the Eastern Shore’s signature festivals, drawing thousands of visitors each Labor Day Weekend to celebrate the Chesapeake Bay’s rich seafood heritage, family traditions, and community spirit. Since its founding in 1947, the Derby has grown into one of Maryland’s longest-running festivals, featuring crab races, crab picking competitions, boat docking competitions and watch parties, pageants, live entertainment, carnival rides, a parade, local seafood, arts and crafts vendors, and activities for all ages.  New this year are exhibits that share the history and heritage of the festival along with the world’s largest inflatable National Hard Crab Derby crab!

Among the festival’s most anticipated attractions is the Governor’s Cup Crab Race, where carefully selected blue crabs sprint down a specially designed racing platform in front of enthusiastic crowds. The race has become a fan favorite, combining friendly competition, hometown pride, and plenty of laughs as spectators cheer their favorite crustacean toward the finish line.  The overall crab race winner is pardoned by Chief Lee and thrown back into the Bay to race another day.

This year’s all-50-state Governor’s Cup race adds a patriotic twist, inviting every state to join the celebration during America’s 250th anniversary and creating a national contest unlike any in Derby history.

Residents of each state are encouraged to:

Will Maryland become home to America’s fastest crab?

There’s only one way to find out.

Join us Labor Day Weekend in Crisfield, Maryland, and help cheer “No More Mr. Nice Claw” to victory.

79th Annual National Hard Crab Derby

Dates: September 3–6

Governor’s Cup Crab Race: Saturday, September 5, 2:30 p.m.

Location: Crisfield, Maryland

Additional event schedules, tickets, lodging information, and festival updates are available through the National Hard Crab Derby’s official website nationalhardcrabderby.com and social media channels.

Founded in 1947, the National Hard Crab Derby is one of Maryland’s premier Labor Day traditions, celebrating the Chesapeake Bay’s blue crab industry, the hardworking watermen who helped build the region, and the community spirit that has made Crisfield famous around the world. Now in its 79th year, the Derby welcomes thousands of visitors annually for four days of family-friendly entertainment, seafood, music, competitions, and the legendary Governor’s Cup Crab Race.  Hosted by the Crisfield Area Chamber of Commerce with races run by the members of Stanley Cochran American Legion Post 16.