Frostburg First header. Sunset image of an uphill road with building on either side.

Frostburg A&E District

Downtown Frostburg is a thriving arts, cultural, and business community in the midst of Appalachian beauty with a mission to develop a prosperous, vibrant, sustainable, and resilient community.

About this A&E District

Cradled in the stunning and wild Allegheny mountains of the Appalachians is Frostburg, a thriving arts, cultural, and outdoor recreation destination. Less than three hours from Pittsburgh, Washington DC, and Baltimore, and a trail town on the Great Allegany Passage, Frostburg is Mountain Maryland’s hidden gem. The walkable historic downtown is stacked with retail, restaurant, and nightlife options to make any trip memorable.

Frostburg was officially designated as the State of Maryland’s eighteenth Arts & Entertainment (A&E) District in July 2009. Frostburg has also been a Maryland Main Street Program since 2001. From modern music venues to historical performing spaces, Frostburg thrives on the creative spirit. Local businesses dedicate their wall space to works by local artists, creating a community-driven love for the arts. Full of painters, potters, jewelry crafters, designers, and fiber artists, the Frostburg arts scene ranges from traditional Appalachian to modern works. The community comes together for our district's bi-annual Arts Walks, Small Business Saturday, and summer events like the Lemonade Stroll and Derby Day, as well as a variety of regular weekend events and showcases.

FrostburgFirst catalyzes economic development and facilitates collaboration and cooperation throughout the community. As a designated Maryland Main Street Community and state-designated Arts & Entertainment District, we strive to make Frostburg “cooler” by enhancing economic vitality and quality of life. FrostburgFirst emphasizes providing resources and promotional assistance to our small businesses and local artists while providing free events and regular updates to the general community, and engaging in projects that contribute to Frostburg's economic development.