Annapolis Wins 28th Eastport Tug of War
Annapolis beat Eastport 5-2 in the annual tug of war on Second Street, reclaiming bragging rights after last year's loss.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Civic
Annapolis defeated Eastport 5-2 in the 28th Annual Eastport vs. Annapolis Tug of War on Saturday, November 7, 2026. The win reversed last year's 4-3 Eastport victory, which had ended a three-year losing streak for Annapolis.
Why it matters
The competition is a long-running local rivalry that also raises money for community causes, with the Maritime Republic of Eastport reporting more than $900,000 raised for local charities through the event and others. The contest for Annapolis residents reflects a tradition tied to the community's history.
The 5-2 result follows Eastport's 4-3 win in 2025 and an Annapolis three-year losing streak that ended with that loss. The event has run for 28 editions and included seven themed heats this year.
The players
Maritime Republic of Eastport
The Maritime Republic of Eastport is the local group that hosts the Tug of War and has raised more than $900,000 for local charitable causes through the event and other activities.
The details
The competition featured seven themed heats between teams representing local firefighters, police supporters, military groups, bars, schools, community organizations, women, and athletes. For the second consecutive year, it took place on Second Street rather than across Spa Creek because of construction at City Dock.
Timeline
1997: Temporary closure of the Spa Creek Bridge for repairs cut off Eastport from downtown Annapolis, sparking the rivalry.
Last year (2025): Eastport defeated Annapolis 4-3.
Saturday, November 7, 2026: 28th Annual Tug of War held; Annapolis won 5-2.
Next November: Next Tug of War expected to take place.
Civic Tradition
The Tug of War traces its origins to the 1997 closure of the Spa Creek Bridge, which temporarily separated Eastport from downtown Annapolis. The 2026 event, held on Second Street for a second year, continues that rivalry in a new location.
Residents can attend the annual event on Second Street, where the competition has been held for the second consecutive year due to construction at City Dock. The event's fundraising also supports local charities through the Maritime Republic of Eastport.
The takeaway
The Tug of War shows how a local infrastructure event can become a lasting community tradition. Its fundraising record demonstrates the civic value of an event born from a practical disruption.
What happens next
The next Eastport vs. Annapolis Tug of War is expected next November, when Eastport will have its next opportunity to compete.
Further reading
For more on local civic traditions, see Civic coverage across the region.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Eye On Annapolis.
