HONfest - STEVEN R. TABOR

HONfest

What does it mean to feel nostalgic?

These photos were taken at the 26th Annual Baltimore HONfest on June 8, 2019. To quote the organizers: “HONfest symbolizes all the charm and goodwill that lies within the hearts of those who live, work, and play in Bawlmer.”

The expression “Hon” is short for “honey” and is the traditional way in which the working women of Baltimore would greet friends, family and even strangers. The HONfest celebration is in honor of the hard working women of Baltimore.

For the Hons and Honettes, the celebration begins in the beauty tent, where the women and their daughters get their hair done and have their makeup applied. After parading around the stalls, enjoying some live music and washing down crab cakes with a stiff drink, they retreat to the main stage for the Ms. Honette and the Baltimore’s Best Hon contests.

If you'd like to see the full series, download the PDF catalogue by clicking here.