25th Blessing of the Combines
Snow Hill, Md. — This Saturday marks the 25th anniversary of the Blessing of the Combines.
The event offers the community a chance to celebrate local farming and agricultural heritage while recognizing farmers for their hard work throughout the year.
“Becky Payne and her family have been hosting this event in town since 1999,” said Brianna Dix, communications and marketing manager for Worcester County Government. “So her family has really just had this vision to celebrate all the farmers here locally.”
Local business owner Hillary Brandt said this is a “must-go” event and has become even more popular than the Fourth of July.
“It was a really, really busy event — one of the busiest events that I’ve probably experienced in downtown Snow Hill outside of maybe the Fourth of July. But it definitely draws more people than the Fourth of July,” she said.
Brandt added that the event includes fun animals, festive decorations and a great atmosphere. Dix agreed.
“It’s a full festival event that takes place all day in Snow Hill on Aug. 2,” Dix said. “You can expect food vendors, a petting zoo, and lots of kids’ activities.”
She also said it’s special to see families from around the Shore return year after year.
“It’s a really fun, family-friendly activity. You can expect lots of things to do — from here all the way down to the river. Come ready to spend the day, shop in town and enjoy this experience,” she said.
As fun as the event is, a special blessing ceremony is held for farmers.
“There is going to be a blessing ceremony over the farmers and their crops and the harvest, and the Snow Hill ministry staff hosts that and offers a prayer service,” Dix said.
“You have so many farms on the way to downtown Snow Hill and throughout Worcester County and surrounding areas,” Brandt said. “So the Blessing of the Combines is really big for families, communities and churches.”
Dix noted that it has been fascinating to see how horses and buggies have given way to tractors over the years.
The parade begins at 11 a.m., and the blessing ceremony will take place at 3 p.m. Saturday in Snow Hill.
