The Poe Toaster is a man (or woman) who, on the birthday of Edgar Allan Poe, January 19, visits Poe's grave wearing all black, carrying a black and silver tipped cane, and toasts with Martel cognac. This individual also leaves three roses, supposedly symbolizing Poe, his wife Virginia Poe, and his mother-in-law Maria Clemm. The tradition has been carried on for over 50 years.

There is a theory that the original died, only to have the spot taken over the next year, by two or three other people, most likely his sons. He left a note at one occasion saying, "The torch will be passed."

This theory has never been completely proven, and the person has never been unmasked. The city of Baltimore, in fact, has shown respect for the Poe Toaster's privacy and no one has made inquiries into his identity.