Maryland Traditions
The Maryland Traditions Heritage Awards recognize and support outstanding long-term achievement in Maryland’s traditional arts, honoring individuals, places, or practices that sustain living cultural traditions.
Funder: Maryland State Arts Council
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026 (Heritage Award nomination deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to six awards annually; each award is $10,000 (unrestricted grant).
Summary: Recognizes and supports long-term achievement in Maryland’s traditional arts through annual, unrestricted awards to individuals, places, or traditions.
Key Information: This is a forecasted grant; all deadlines are projected and subject to annual cycle updates.
Description
This program recognizes and celebrates significant, long-term achievement in Maryland’s traditional arts, defined as living cultural traditions passed down within communities by example or word of mouth. Each year, up to six Heritage Awards are given in three categories—Person/People, Place, and Tradition—to honor individuals, locations, or practices that demonstrate sustained excellence and impact in the traditional arts. Awardees receive a $10,000 unrestricted grant, and their achievements are documented in the Maryland Traditions Archives. The program is administered by the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) and is part of the broader Maryland Traditions initiative, which also includes grants, events, and archival activities.
