The Maryland Entomological Society (MES) was founded in November 1971, to promote the science of entomology in all its sub-disciplines; to provide a common meeting venue for professional and amateur entomologists residing in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and nearby areas; to issue a periodical and other publications dealing with entomology; and to facilitate the exchange of ideas and information through its meetings and publications.

Membership in the MES is open to all persons interested in the study of entomology. All members receive the annual journal, The Maryland Entomologist, and the monthly e-newsletter, Phaëton.

Meetings are held on the third Friday of October, November, February, March, April and May at 7:00 p.m. in Room 4 of the Biological Sciences Building, University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), or occasionally at another announced site. The MES is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, scientific organization.