Upcoming & Recent Events

Maryland FIRST hosts events year-round for students, mentors, and volunteers. Below are key dates from recent seasons. Subscribe to the iCal feed to keep your calendar in sync.

FRC Events

FTC Events

FLL & Jr.FLL Events

Maryland FIRST events bring together students, mentors, and families from across the state to celebrate the spirit of robotics and STEM education. These gatherings are where months of hard work, creative problem-solving, and teamwork come to life on the competition field. From lively kickoff events that launch the season to championship tournaments that showcase the best of the best, each event is designed to inspire young minds and build a strong sense of community. Volunteers and coaches play an essential role in making these experiences memorable, and the energy at every venue reflects the dedication of everyone involved in the Maryland FIRST network.

The competition season includes a variety of events tailored to different age groups and program levels. For younger participants, there are expos and festivals where teams demonstrate their Lego-based robot designs and share what they have learned about science and engineering. Older students take part in more advanced challenges that require sophisticated programming, strategy, and collaboration. Qualifiers lead up to regional championships, giving teams multiple opportunities to compete, improve, and advance. Each event is carefully organized to provide a safe, supportive, and exciting environment where every participant can grow and succeed.

Beyond the competitions themselves, Maryland FIRST hosts training days and workshops designed to equip teams with the skills they need to thrive. These sessions cover topics such as robot design, programming fundamentals, judging preparation, and effective teamwork. Coaches and mentors also benefit from dedicated training that helps them guide their teams more effectively. These educational events are held throughout the year, often at community centers or school locations, and they are open to both new and experienced participants. The goal is to ensure that every team, regardless of background or resources, has access to the knowledge and support needed to compete confidently.

Volunteer opportunities are woven into every event hosted by Maryland FIRST. From referees and judges to pit crew assistants and registration volunteers, there are many ways for community members to contribute. Volunteers receive orientation and support, making it easy for anyone to get involved, even without a technical background. The organization relies heavily on this network of dedicated individuals to run events smoothly and safely. Volunteering also provides a rewarding way to connect with local schools, meet inspiring students, and witness firsthand the impact of hands-on STEM learning. Many volunteers return season after season, becoming an integral part of the Maryland FIRST family.

Maryland FIRST events are also a celebration of the broader STEM community. They serve as a meeting ground for educators, industry professionals, alumni, and families who share a passion for innovation and education. These gatherings often feature demonstrations, exhibits, and opportunities to explore advanced technologies beyond robotics. The sense of camaraderie is palpable as teams cheer for one another and share strategies and stories. For many participants, these events become cherished annual traditions that build lasting friendships and spark lifelong interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The calendar is always full of meaningful experiences waiting to be discovered.