Banneker Birthday Market Fair in Catonsville, November 7
29 October 2026
Benjamin Banneker's Birthday Market Fair is Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, 300 Oella Avenue in Catonsville. It is free, family friendly and open to everyone, with historical vendors, music, games, crafts, cooking demonstrations and food trucks.
When and where is the Banneker Birthday Market Fair?
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, November 7, 2026 |
| Time | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
| Where | Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, 300 Oella Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228 |
| Cost | Free |
| Host | Baltimore County Recreation and Parks |
The fair is part of Baltimore County Recreation and Parks' fall festival lineup. You can find the details on the county's Banneker Birthday Market Fair event page.
What is there to do at the market fair?
The county says to expect:
- Historical vendors
- Games
- Music
- Cooking demonstrations
- Crafts
- Food trucks
- Plenty of family fun
It is the kind of day where kids can run around outside while the grown-ups browse and learn a little history. Bring a bit of spending money for the food trucks and vendors.
Who was Benjamin Banneker?
Benjamin Banneker was born in Baltimore County in 1731 and is often considered the first African American man of science, according to Baltimore County's Banneker museum page. He taught himself astronomy and mathematics, accurately predicted a solar eclipse in 1789, built clocks that lasted for decades and published almanacs, as The Baltimore Banner has written.
The fair celebrates his birthday month, and it is a wonderful way to teach kids that a world-class scientist came from right here in our corner of the county.
What else is at the Banneker park?
The Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum is a 142-acre site with a museum, trails and nature programs. The county lists it as open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on county holidays.
The park also offers programs on Banneker's life, beekeeping and pollinators, and stream critters, with scout programs on weekends. For group programs, call the park at 410-887-1081.
How can I make a day of it from Arbutus?
The park is a short drive from Arbutus, and Catonsville makes it easy to turn the fair into a full Saturday. Before or after, stroll Frederick Road to see the new Signs of People public art walk, or head to Relay to see the Thomas Viaduct, another piece of local history that still stands.
November mornings can be chilly in the Patapsco valley, so dress in layers and wear shoes you can walk in on grass and trails.
What does this mean for people moving here?
Free events like this one are a big part of why I love this area. Between the county parks, Patapsco Valley State Park and the history tucked into every town around us, there is always something to do that does not cost a thing. If you are thinking about a move, my Moving to Arbutus guide is a good place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Benjamin Banneker Birthday Market Fair in 2026?
It is Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fair is held at the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum in Catonsville.
Is the Banneker Birthday Market Fair free?
Yes, admission is free and the event is open to the public. Bring spending money if you want food truck treats or vendor goods.
Where is the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum?
The park is at 300 Oella Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228. It is a short drive from Arbutus.
What happens at the market fair?
Baltimore County lists historical vendors, games, music, cooking demonstrations, crafts and food trucks. It is designed as a family-friendly day for all ages.
Who was Benjamin Banneker?
Benjamin Banneker was a self-taught scientist born in Baltimore County in 1731. He is often considered the first African American man of science.
Disclaimer: Event details come from Baltimore County Recreation and Parks, including its September 17, 2026 fall festival announcement and the event page, with background from Baltimore County's Banneker museum page and The Baltimore Banner, as of 29 October 2026.
Looking for a Home Near Arbutus?
From history-filled parks to quiet streets, I would love to help you find your spot in southwest Baltimore County. Call or text me at 443-421-6855.
Join our Discovering Arbutus Facebook group
for local news and events