Heritage Days Festival Begins Saturday

The 15th annual Montgomery County Heritage Days festival takes place this weekend, with free events that offer visitors historic, cultural and nature adventure opportunities.

On Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., visitors are invited to more than 30 open houses and events across the county. Check out this list for events near Gaithersburg. A full list of events can be found on the Heritage Days website here.

Gaithersburg Community Museum
When: Saturday, opens at 10 a.m.
Where: S. Summit Avenue, Gaithersburg          
Why: Visit the restored 1884 B&O railroad station complex and participate in "Train Day at the Museum." Visitors can view the model train display and tour a caboose filled with local train history. See the 1918 steam locomotive, general mercantile store, as well as interactive displays of a bank and schoolroom.

Gaithersburg Latitude Observatory
When: Saturday
Where: 100 Desellum Avenue, Gaithersburg
Why: Tour the restored building and newly opened History Park. The building and its surrounding property were built by Rockville astronomer Edwin Smith. This site played an important role in efforts of scientists to determine the “wobble of the earth”.

Pleasant View Historical Society
When: Saturday only
Where: 11810 Darnestown Road, Gaithersburg
Why: Tour the historic church, school and cemetery at 12 p.m. Join “Kinderman” from 1–2:30 p.m. as he educates, entertains and inspires the imaginations of children and parents through an interactive experience. Gospel music performed by the Lyles Singers and the Royal Harmonies start at 2:30 p.m.

Edwards Ferry and Lockhouse 25
When: Saturday Only
Where: River Road and Edwards Ferry Road, Poolesville
Why: Costumed historians and local residents will guide visitors through the site's history during the Civil War. Music, lockhouse tours and information on hiking, biking and water trails will also be available. For more information call 301-972-3452 or visit sugarloafregionaltrails.org.

Editor's Note: "Why" attend descriptions from Heritage Montgomery.