September is International Underground Railroad Month in Maryland, honoring the brave men, women, and children who fought for freedom. It’s the month when Harriet Tubman (born here in Dorchester County) made her first attempt to escape slavery (Sept. 17) and when abolitionist Frederick Douglass self-liberated himself in Baltimore (Sept. 3).

To mark the month, reserve your spot for “Footsteps to Freedom: The Historic Link Between Sacrifice, Triumph, and the Modern-Day Civil Rights Movement” Sept. 13 and 14. This event also pays tribute to the 50th anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the annual Harriet Tubman Emancipation Day. Join in for reflection, education, and inspiration with highlights including "Steal Away" (a puppet/live actor production), seed work artists from the Caribbean islands, workshops to make a Harriet Tubman Emancipation Doll, ranger programs, children’s discovery zone, workshops, performances, and conversations.

There will also be Underground Railroad guided walking tours led by the Harriet Tubman Museum at 10am both Sept 13 and 14. Free, but register for the walks in advance.

Another way to mark International Underground Railroad Month is to take the road trip known as the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway. This self-guided, scenic driving tour includes more than 30 sites, including the well-known “Take My Hand” mural and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center. Enrich your experience with the free audio guide.

Get ready for some beautiful cycling this September and October! Dorchester County is home to flat and quiet country roads and beautiful landscapes and waterscapes. Exploring on two wheels gives you time to appreciate the stunning views in and around the 30,000-acre Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and to look for wildlife such as eagles, herons, and egrets (like the ones in the video here captured at Blackwater).

Explore on your own using our Dorchester Cycling Guide with suggested routes from 10 to 55 miles.

Don't have your own bike here? Join Blackwater Adventures, which provides bikes for rent – with or without a guide to share stories of the land and history.

NEW THIS YEAR: Rent an e-bike from River Dogs Outfitters! Located at 452 Race St., Cambridge. Rent cruiser, cargo, and fat tire models by the hour or daily.

The tall ship Pride of Baltimore II is coming to Cambridge for a port visit! There will be day sails, evening sails, and free deck tours at Long Wharf (all weather permitting). Find day/evening sail tickets and info. (The video here shows the Pride heading to Cambridge, shot from the deck of the Skipjack Nathan – two boats full of heritage!)

Jon Boat Docking at 11am followed by Raft Races. Plus vendors, food, and games. Boat ramp on Temple Street in Secretary.

Tom Bradshaw talks about the life of this Dorchester County native and life at Henry's Crossroads. Part of the South Dorchester Folk Museum lecture series. At the Dorchester County Historical Society. Free.

Emily's Produce hosts a Harvest Celebration with the opening of their corn maze and pumpkin patch, fall treats, fall decor, and fun. Watch for their Sunset in the Stalks series – a monthly evening event with live music, special themes, extended hours.

Watch these iconic Chesapeake Bay oyster dredging boats as they take to the water and compete in a race on the Choptank River. (The skipjack is Maryland’s state boat!) Parade of boats at 9am followed by the race at 10am. Great, close-up views from Long Wharf Park in Cambridge. Free.

This year, a new route will take this art walk and street festival into Cambridge's historic downtown Arts & Entertainment District. Still featuring art and food vendors, nonprofit organizations, and live music and dance.