Crisfield’s 71st annual Crab Derby and festival rings in summer’s send off

CRISFIELD, Md. – The 71st annual Crisfield Crab Derby and festival is home to many traditions and the people 47 ABC spoke to say it’s the that small town feel that keeps them coming back year after year.

Robin Rayford, a local said, “I left Crisfield when I was 12 years old but I’ve been coming back home every year at Labor Day.  You get to see friends and family and it’s just a really awesome time.”

As the summer season winds down, many choose to spend their Labor Day weekend in the Crab Capitol of the World,”  celebrating the decades old tradition that is the Crisfield Crab Derby and Festival.

Gary Swain another visitor said,  “They’ve got steamed crabs for us, why not be here! What a way to celebrate, I hate to say, the end of summer!”

Robin also said,  “I remember being at the crab house when I was a little kid watching the ladies pick crabs.”

Crab cracking, old-fashioned family values, and the escape from the hustle and bustle make the derby festival such a hit.

Swain also said,  “It’s a relaxing and that’s why we come here. To celebrate America.”

Some wait all summer for the delicious seafood, vendors, and other fair festivities.

Stan Rayford, another visitor said, “This is absolutely where you wanna be. Nothing better nothing better than being here and enjoying the seafood.”

Mason Ignaccolo, a younger festival goer said, “My favorite part is all the rides. I love the swing thing!”

Locals and visitors from all walks of life tell 47 ABC, aside from the festival, its the people that truly make Crisfield one of a kind.

Robin also said, “People here love one another. You can go anywhere and get help from anyone. It’s a piece of heaven here.”