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.  The MES was incorporated in April 1982 and is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, scientific organization.

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.  Institutions may subscribe to The Maryland Entomologist but may not become members.

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.  Each meeting features a guest lecturer speaking on a topic of current entomological research or a related general interest subject.  Meetings also provide an opportunity to discuss current topics in the field of entomology and often feature displays of various taxa.