EAT
Aug. 30-Sept. 2: Maryland State Fair
Maryland State Fair and Timonium Fairgrounds, 2200 York Rd., Lutherville-Timonium. 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Prices vary.
For the past 137 years, the Maryland State Fair has been summer’s last hurrah before the leaves begin to change. While fairgoers look forward to the Midway rides and thoroughbred races, the fair’s wide array of eats—from farmers’ market finds to deep-fried delicacies—are just as much of a draw. During its final weekend, indulge in tons of nostalgic carnival treats like cotton candy, deep-fried Oreos, and funnel cake, as well as riffs on Old Line State favorites like the Crabby Patty sandwich and the Maryland pulled pork sundae at the Maryland Foods Pavilion.
DRINK
Aug. 30: My Thai Mai Tai
El Tigre Tiki Bar, 1640 Aliceanna St. 4-11 p.m. Free.
Seventy-five years ago, the owner of a California tiki restaurant mixed the very first Mai Thai, and the world of tropical drinks hasn’t been the same since. To celebrate the anniversary of this beach-party staple, Broadway Market’s outdoor tiki bar will be serving up variations of the classic drink and pairing each cocktail with a recommended dish from fellow tenant Thai Street. We highly recommend chowing down on crab fried rice or drunken noodles in between mai tais to offset a sugar-induced hangover.
SEE
Aug. 23: Baltimore Comedy Festival
Locations, times, and prices vary.
Laugh your way through Labor Day weekend with Baltimore Comedy Festival’s killer lineup of more than 20 events scattered throughout the city’s top stand up venues. This third-annual festival boasts everything from panel discussions and podcast recordings with rising comedians to stand-up showcases at spots like Motor House and Zissimos. Whether you stop in to catch a set or make a full weekend out of it, don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy some of Baltimore’s best comedians.
HEAR
Aug. 31-Sept. 1: Lower Dens
Rituals, 12 W. North Ave. 8 p.m. $15.
This veteran indie-pop duo is celebrating the final days before the official release of their new album, The Competition, with two nights of hometown shows in Station North. Pack the Rituals (formerly the Windup Space) dance floor to hear standout singles like “I Drive” and “Young Republicans” come alive with Jana Hunter and Nate Nelson’s synth-laced beats and unmistakable energy and send the band off on their month-long tour with an encore or two.
DO
Aug. 31-Oct. 20: Maryland Renaissance Festival
1821 Crownsville Rd. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. $8-20.
Let’s face it: We could all use a break from modern political chaos and the impending climate crisis, and what could be a better distraction than entering a world of medieval make-believe? This Sunday, embrace ye inner lord or lady and experience this weird and wonderful Maryland tradition among thousands of other mead-swilling attendees. Spend the day chomping on turkey legs, cheering on your favorite knight in the jousting competition, and watching zany takes on The Bard’s greatest plays. If you can’t make it this weekend, don’t worry, the Crownsville festival runs through mid-October.