In the heart of Worcester County, Maryland, lie Berlin, Snow Hill, and Pocomoke—towns that blend the nostalgia of small-town life with vibrant opportunities for growth. These communities, enriched by history and enlivened by forward-thinking projects, each offer unique experiences for visitors and residents alike. With Ocean City’s sandy shores just minutes away, these communities offer a place where you can truly live, work, and play—all against a scenic and historical backdrop that feels like home.
Berlin: America’s Coolest Small Town and Beyond
Berlin, Maryland, isn’t just America’s Coolest Small Town; it’s a nationally recognized example of historic charm meeting modern growth. This year, Berlin’s commitment to revitalization earned it a semifinalist spot for the 2025 Great American Main Street Award (GAMSA). Recognized by Main Street America, Berlin serves as a model of preservation and economic innovation, balancing respect for its storied past with a vibrant present that draws visitors and sustains local businesses.
Historic Charm and Community-Focused Growth Berlin’s Main Street is a charming blend of Victorian architecture and modern commerce, where storefronts adorned with unique signage and vibrant window displays invite visitors to stroll, shop, and stay a while. Iconic spots like Victorian Charm, the historic Atlantic Hotel, and Rayne’s Reef Diner embody why Berlin, MD is more than just a cool small town—it’s a place where community meets creativity, making it a desirable destination to visit or call home.
A Year-Round Calendar of Events Berlin’s lively event calendar brings people together, fueling both the community spirit and the local economy. Events like:
- Annual Bathtub Races: Where locals race down Main Street in decorated bathtubs, bringing the community together with laughter and creativity.
- Ice Ice Berlin and Tree Lighting: A festive winter event with ice sculptures, cozy fire pits, and a magical tree-lighting ceremony.
- Berlin Fiddlers Convention: A three-day celebration of bluegrass and traditional music that fills the streets with melody, drawing musicians and fans alike.
- Berlin Farmers Market: A vibrant weekly gathering where locals and visitors alike enjoy fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts, creating a lively community space that supports small businesses and fosters a connection to local agriculture.
These events add vibrancy to Berlin, attracting visitors from afar and supporting local businesses throughout the year.
Hollywood Appeal and Ongoing Recognition Berlin’s historic charm has even caught Hollywood’s eye, serving as the backdrop for films like Runaway Bride and Tuck Everlasting. Winning accolades and the hearts of visitors, Berlin’s evolution from a historic small town to a celebrated destination is a testament to the power of community-led revitalization.
Snow Hill: History and Arts in Harmony
Just a short drive from Berlin, Snow Hill, MD combines its rich history with a vibrant creative arts scene that brings its unique character to life. Though Snow Hill is still growing, it boasts a welcoming atmosphere and a community spirit that values tradition, artistic expression, and local connection.
Bank Street Promenade: A Community Gathering Space The upcoming Bank Street Promenade exemplifies Snow Hill’s community-centered revitalization efforts. This pedestrian-friendly area will feature tree-lined paths, story walls celebrating local legends, and ample seating, creating an inviting space for gatherings and relaxation. With plans to become a hub for events, exploration, and local commerce, the promenade will bring new foot traffic to support Snow Hill’s shops and artisans.
Honoring Tradition with the Oyster Festival and Blessing of the Combines
Snow Hill celebrates its heritage through annual events that bring the community together around local traditions and agriculture:
- Annual Oyster Festival: Attracting visitors who savor locally sourced oysters from nearby Chincoteague Bay, this festival celebrates Snow Hill’s seafood legacy. With shucking contests, tastings, and live music, the event showcases Eastern Shore flavors and supports local businesses.
- Blessing of the Combines: Celebrating 25 years in 2025, this cherished event pays tribute to Snow Hill’s farming roots and the families who sustain them. Featuring a parade of combines and farming equipment, food vendors, and activities, the event unites the community in appreciation of local agriculture.
These annual traditions unite the Snow Hill community and highlight its distinctive blend of history, culture, and celebration.
A Thriving Arts Scene
Snow Hill’s dedication to the arts is at the heart of its small-town charm:
- Monthly Art Walks: Artists and visitors gather for live music, gallery displays, and artisan stalls, transforming the town into an open-air gallery.
- Artisan Events and Workshops: These gatherings foster a thriving creative community, attracting people from across the region to experience Snow Hill’s artistic spirit.
- Furnace Town Renaissance Faire: This annual event invites visitors to step back in time, with costumed performers, artisans, and medieval games, crafts, and live music. It’s a unique celebration of local heritage and community spirit that brings history to life.
With its commitment to the arts and Eastern Shore traditions, Snow Hill offers a distinct experience for those who appreciate a close-knit community enriched by creativity and cultural heritage.
Pocomoke: Nature, Community, and Sustainable Growth
Pocomoke City, MD’s charm flows along the tranquil Pocomoke River, offering scenic beauty and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Known as the “friendliest town on the Eastern Shore,” Pocomoke is in the early stages of revitalizing its Main Street, but its warm hospitality and commitment to eco-friendly initiatives make it a delightful stop for anyone exploring Maryland’s Coast.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives for a Resilient Future Sustainability is at the core of Pocomoke’s approach to growth. Through the Green Streets, Green Jobs, and Green Towns initiative, Pocomoke has implemented rain gardens and permeable paving to manage stormwater and reduce flooding. The town’s new, light-filled library on Market Street adds to this eco-friendly vision, creating a civic space designed for learning, gathering, and community connection.
Project Restore 2.0: Revitalizing Downtown An exciting part of Pocomoke’s growth is its participation in Project Restore 2.0, an initiative focused on activating vacant buildings and boosting the local economy. Through this program, Pocomoke is restoring two long-vacant properties, creating new spaces for women-owned businesses to bring fresh energy to Main Street. This blend of sustainable practices and entrepreneurial support highlights Pocomoke’s commitment to an inclusive, forward-thinking future.
A Promising Future for Worcester County, MD’s Main Streets
In Worcester County, MD, the revitalization of Berlin, Snow Hill, and Pocomoke is about more than beautifying Main Streets—it’s about strengthening community connections, supporting local businesses, and fostering a resilient economy. As these towns continue to thrive, the county remains committed to preserving their authenticity while embracing sustainable growth.
Strategic investments—like Berlin’s thriving Main Street, Snow Hill’s community promenade, and Pocomoke’s eco-friendly initiatives—show how progress and tradition can work in harmony. Local leaders are exploring ways to expand infrastructure, promote sustainable tourism, and encourage small business development, ensuring that these communities retain their unique charm for years to come.
Whether you’re strolling through artisan markets, attending a lively festival, or enjoying a riverside walk, Worcester County, MD’s towns offer something for everyone, blending history, creativity and opportunity at every turn.
Connect with Our Economic Development Directors For those interested in learning more about opportunities in Worcester County, MD, our Economic Development Directors are here to help. Connect with Ivy Wells in Berlin, Lorissa McAllister in Snow Hill, or Karah Lacey in Pocomoke to explore each town’s unique vision and potential.
Berlin, MD: Ivy Wells – Phone: 410-629-1722, Email: [email protected]
Snow Hill, MD: Lorissa McAllister – Phone: 410-632-2080, Email: [email protected]
Pocomoke, MD: Karah Lacey – Phone: 410-957-1333, Email: [email protected]
