The St. John’s Croquet Match is one of Annapolis’s most unique spring events. It combines a historic rivalry with a fun outdoor party. The match is famous for its elegance and relaxed vibe, and a lot of people come to enjoy a day of croquet, music, and chatting on the beautiful college lawn. It gives a unique look into the fun side of two extremely prestigious institutions, the U.S. Naval Academy and St. John’s College.
Event Checklist:
• Date: in the middle of April most of the time (exact date for 2026 to be announced)
• Time: Gates usually open at 10 a.m., and the match starts around 1 p.m.
• Venue: St. John’s College Front Lawn, Annapolis, Maryland
About St. John’s Croquet Match
In the spring, the St. John’s Croquet Match, also called the Annapolis Cup, brings a bit of style and friendly competition to Annapolis. Every year, this event takes place on the lovely front lawn of St. John’s College, and the United States Naval Academy and St. John’s serve croquet. The day is more than just a sports battle; it is a beloved social event that draws over 4,000 people dressed in traditional spring clothes. The match blends intellectual and disciplined traditions in a specifically Annapolitan style.
What Is St. John’s Croquet Match?
The croquet match began in 1983 as a friendly competition between friends from St. John’s and the Naval Academy. It has since become a beloved tradition in the community. Following the rules set by the U.S. Croquet Association, the match is a mix of skill, fun, and ceremony. Picnics, drinks, live music, and mallets striking brilliant balls over groomed lawns are fun. As a spring event for alumni and locals, it showcases sportsmanship, school pride, and community harmony.
Top Tips for Enjoying St. John’s Croquet Match 2026
To make your time at the 2026 match more fun, here are some things you can do ahead of time:
• Dress well: the event is known for having attractive people. Bright spring colors, vintage accessories, and classic styles come to mind. There is not an official dress code, but getting dressed up is a tradition.
• Arrive Early for the Best Spots: The gates open at 10 a.m., and people who reach there early get the best spots for picnics and viewing.
• Bring a Picnic Basket: People often bring gourmet snacks, fruit, finger sandwiches, and fizzy drinks in a picnic basket. It is best to bring reusable containers and picnic blankets.
• Follow the Rules: The rules say that you cannot bring tents or grills, and you can only have open containers of alcohol in certain areas.
• Watch the Match and Learn: The social aspect is important, but do not miss the match itself—it is fun and competitive, and there is usually live commentary.
• Join the Crowd: Talk to other people who are there; a lot of them come back every year. It is a great chance to meet people in the area and former students.
Where to Stay in Annapolis for St. John’s Croquet Match
Finding the right place to stay on the weekend makes it more fun. Annapolis has a range of places to stay, including
• Historic Inns of Annapolis: There are three beautifully renovated historic inns in downtown Annapolis that are close to the event and full of character.
• Graduate Annapolis: This hotel is great for young workers, college graduates, and couples who want a cozy vibe. It is stylish and friendly.
• Annapolis Waterfront Hotel: This high-end choice is right on the bay and has beautiful views. It is also easy to get to city sites.
• Local Bed & Breakfasts: There are dozens of charming B&Bs spread out in the historic district that offer a cozier, more personalized stay.
• Airbnb Options: There are private rentals close by that might work for families or larger groups going to the game.
Because the event always has a lot of people, it is best to book your stay several months in advance.
Who Won the Annapolis Cup in 2025?
It was a close game in 2025, but St. John’s College came out on top due to precision, calm strategy, and a deep understanding of the game. The win made St. John’s already impressive record in the series even better, and it made things even more friendly between the two institutions. Fans cheered loudly as the final hit with the club sealed the win, adding another unique part to the long history of the event.
Is Croquet a College Sport?
Most colleges do not accept croquet as a major or NCAA-sanctioned sport. However, clubs and people at institutions like St. John’s play it for fun. In fact, the Annapolis Cup is one of the few college croquet tournaments in the U.S. that gets so much attention from the public. This Annapolis Festival honors croquet as a sport and culture, mixing history, splendor, and community spirit in a manner seldom seen on college campuses.