Rural Maryland Council to Host Rural Maryland Day in Annapolis

Annapolis, MD – The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) is pleased to announce its return to Annapolis for Rural Maryland Day on Thursday, February 12, 2026. This free, special event provides legislators with the opportunity to engage directly with rural constituents and stakeholders, fostering meaningful discussions on initiatives and opportunities that impact rural communities across Maryland.

“Celebrating Rural Maryland Day gives us a chance to highlight the incredible work happening in our rural communities,” said Susan O’Neill, Chair of the Rural Maryland Council. “From local partnerships to innovative projects, these communities are driving progress and showing what’s possible when people work together for a stronger Maryland.”

“Rural Maryland is the heart of our state’s heritage and economy,” said Kevin Atticks, Maryland Secretary of Agriculture. “On Rural Maryland Day, we honor the farmers, producers, and rural families whose dedication, stewardship, and hard work keep our communities thriving and our state strong.”

In recognition of the importance of Maryland’s rural regions, Governor Wes Moore has issued an official proclamation designating February 12, 2026, as Rural Maryland Day. The proclamation acknowledges the vital role that agriculture, forestry, and seafood industries play in supporting rural economies; highlights the collaborative efforts of local governments, agencies, institutions, nonprofits, and private businesses to address challenges facing rural communities; and commends the Rural Maryland Council for its 25 years of distinguished service advancing rural development partnerships and improving quality of life across the state.

Rural Maryland Day will begin with a welcome and briefing from RMC staff at the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum, located at 84 Franklin Street, Annapolis, from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM. Participants will then take part in scheduled legislative appointments throughout the morning and early afternoon.

From 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, attendees are invited to observe the Maryland General Assembly Floor Session for both the House and Senate. Additional legislative meetings will follow from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The day will conclude with lunch and a debriefing at the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.

Rural Maryland Day is free to attend and open to invited participants. Media representatives are encouraged to attend and cover the event.

For more information, please contact the Rural Maryland Council at (410) 841-5772 or [email protected].