Water Ways: Mid-Atlantic Maritime Communities celebrated the coastal region stretching from Long Island, New York, through New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia to the Outerbanks of North Carolina. Maritime workers and artisans from 15 communities in these states came together to demonstrate their skills and share their stories. Development, pollution, and population shifts all have had their effect on the region's distinct identity. The Festival program is working to increase public understanding and appreciation of the contributions that Mid-Atlantic maritime traditions have made to America's artistic and cultural heritage--and help to encourage their preservation.

Master craftsmen demonstrated boat building and restoration. River pilots and ferry boat captains related their experiences, and commercial fishermen showed the many techniques and skills necessary to bringing delicious seafood to the table. The Festival featured regional styles of waterfowl decoy carving and maritime music. Visitors were able to see an authentic 70 foot Chesapeake Bay skipjack up close and also learn about water safety, rescue, and weather prediction.