National Hard Crab Derby returns this holiday weekend, bonus for local economy

CRISFIELD, Md.- “The backbone of this event is the town,” Ritchey said.

Crisfield holds the title of the crab capital of the world, which makes it no surprise that for 75 years the town has been home to the National Hard Carb Derby. “It’s really an event that just kind of shows the tradition of the town. Its a waterman town and its to celebrate what we do as a town,” Crisfield Area Chamber of Commerce President Stevie Ritchey said.

The 3-day event includes everything from crab races to the governors cup.

Crisfield Area Chamber of Commerce says the 10-legged staple brings thousands to town which is a bonus for the local economy. “Our businesses have to bring in extra employees over the weekend. Especially the restaurants because it brings in so much foot traffic and people just experiencing our town,” Ritchey said.

The Miss Crustacean Pageant is one of the kickoff events to the weekend.

We caught up with previous crown holder Colbi Sayre who tells us she’s been apart of the beauty pageant now for 12 years. She adds it’s more than just a crown, it’s a legacy. “This community the Ms. Crestation pageant is like a right of passage. If you know anyone here there mother competed, their sister, or someone in their family has taken part in it,” Sayre said.

“My sister and I both competed and it just really holds a special place in our hearts.”

From a crab cooking and picking contests to a variety of vendors selling the town delicacy, organizers are looking forward to this years event and hope it will be a reason for visitors to keep coming back. “It’s really a wonderful event for our local economy and for people to discover our area as well as to support us locally,” Ritchey said.

The event kicks off Friday with a cooking contest.

To find out more about the events, click here