[Maryland State Arts Council](https://www.msac.org)

June 2026 (Heritage Awards nomination deadline)

Typically $5,000 per Heritage Award; non-renewable, recognition-based

Annual award recognizing outstanding long-term achievement in Maryland’s folk and traditional arts.

Nominees must be Maryland residents or organizations with significant impact on Maryland's traditional arts.

--- ## Description The Heritage Awards, part of the Maryland Traditions program administered by the Maryland State Arts Council, annually honor individuals, groups, or organizations for outstanding, sustained contributions to Maryland’s folk and traditional arts. The program seeks to identify, document, support, and present the state’s living cultural traditions, emphasizing those passed down through generations by word of mouth or example. Awardees are recognized not only for artistic excellence but also for their impact on community heritage and the preservation of Maryland’s diverse cultural expressions. --- ## Due Dates - June 2026 (Heritage Awards nomination deadline; anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Each Heritage Award typically provides a $5,000 cash prize. - Awards are one-time, non-renewable, and intended as recognition rather than a project grant. --- ## Eligibility - Open to individuals, groups, or organizations who have made significant, sustained contributions to Maryland’s folk and traditional arts. - Nominees must be Maryland residents or organizations whose work has had a major impact within the state. - Awards are intended for those demonstrating long-term achievement, preservation, and transmission of traditional arts. - Self-nominations are permitted, but third-party nominations are encouraged. --- ## Application Process - Nominations are required and typically must include: - A completed nomination form (available via the program page). - A narrative describing the nominee’s achievements and impact on Maryland’s traditional arts. - Supporting materials such as photographs, recordings, press clippings, or letters of support. - Applications are submitted online through the Maryland State Arts Council’s grant portal. - Detailed instructions and current nomination forms are posted annually on the [Heritage Awards program page](https://www.msac.org/programs/maryland-traditions/heritage-awards). --- ## Additional Information - The Heritage Awards are part of a broader suite of Maryland Traditions opportunities, including Folklife Apprenticeships and Folklife Network grants. - Awardees are celebrated at a public event and may be featured in the Maryland Traditions Archives. - The program aims to represent the full diversity of Maryland’s communities and traditions. --- ## External Links - [Maryland Traditions – Heritage Awards Program Page](https://www.msac.org/programs/maryland-traditions/heritage-awards) - [Maryland Traditions Main Program](https://www.msac.org/programs/maryland-traditions) - [Maryland State Arts Council Homepage](https://www.msac.org) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | Web Contact | |--------------|--------------------------------------|---------------|----------------------------------| | Maryland State Arts Council | msac.commerce@maryland.gov | 410-767-6555 | [Contact Form](https://www.msac.org/contact) | ---

Maryland Traditions

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