Sadly, concerts are among the most beloved summer staples that were scrapped this year due to COVID-19. And WTMD’s annual concert series, First Thursdays, is one of the music festivals locals miss most.

In accordance with social-distancing guidelines, the Towson radio station made the decision to cancel the monthly shows—which are typically attended by thousands at Canton Waterfront Park.

But, on June 4, WTMD presented its first-ever virtual First Thursday festival. Viewers tuned into the radio station’s Facebook page to watch performances by soulful singer Allen Stone, multi-genre band Chicano Batman, and our own DJ Landis Expandis.

The station partnered with Baltimore-based photography and videography production company, Human Being Productions, to handle the technical side of the concert, and WTMD’s program director Scott Mullins says it went off without a hitch.

Because the event received so much positive feedback, the station has decided to continue the virtual concerts for the rest of the summer. The next livestreamed show is scheduled for July 2, featuring performances from renowned singer-songwriter Grace Potter, Americana darling Sarah Jarosz, British folk singer Laura Marling, alternative country and rock musician Katie Pruitt, Maryland native Michael Nau, and homegrown rapper and hip-hop artist Eze Jackson.

“None of us are under the illusion that this is taking the place of a real, live musical event,” Mullins says. “It’s making the best of a bad situation.”

As the series features artists from all over the country, most of the performances are pre-recorded. During the first show, WTMD’s afternoon drive host, Carrie Evans, introduced the acts while broadcasting live from the studio.

Mullins says the station modeled the virtual concerts off of the old MTV VJs, where DJs would tie broadcasts together by airing various music videos. The first show included skits, promos, and short appearances from local artists along with the musical performances.

“One of the things we decided when putting this together was that it did not need to be a straightaway concert performance,” Mullins adds.

One of the bonuses of planning a virtual series was the ease Mullins had in booking the musical acts. He’s found that performers are much more likely to commit to a virtual concert, rather than a live performance: “While the virtual First Thursdays had its limitations,” he says, “it also offered up some opportunities that you don’t have with a live event.”

Pre-coronavirus, WTMD organized a total revamp of its annual outdoor festival, planning to partner with Baltimore childcare network, Napp, to create a Saturday Morning Tunes Kids’ Corner for children to engage in themed arts and crafts while listening to the music with their parents. In collaboration with Made in Baltimore, the station also planned to create a market featuring more than 20 local makers, selling everything from apparel to personal care products. True to the festival’s musical roots, the market would also boast a DJ area for up-and-coming spinners to mix tracks.

“Our disappointment in not being able to do it is huge,” Mullins says. “We hope to be able to pursue those changes for next season.”

There are so many things to love about the annual Baltimore Seafood Festival at Canton Waterfront Park. The end-of-summer tradition, which returns on Saturday, September 15 from 12-7 p.m., offers a blend of live music (this year’s headliners include local favorites The Scotch Bonnets and Honey Extractor), cooking demonstrations, crafters, and family-fun activities against the backdrop of the sparkling harbor. But, at the heart of the five-year-old fête is its wide array of seafood specialties.

With more than 35 area restaurants and food trucks participating this year, the event will have plenty of diverse dishes paying homage to the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay. Among the purveyors returning is The London Chippy—a can’t-miss food truck (just look out for the massive Union Jack logo) that specializes in authentic fish and chips. Owner Anthony Robinson, who was born and raised in London, says that he was pleasantly surprised by the adventurous palates at the Seafood Fest last year.

“Typically, we get a lot of customers who stick with fried catfish or trout, but at the festival last year people were like, ‘No we want the cod and the traditional fish and chips,’” Robinson remembers. “It was a great feeling knowing that people really understood who we are and what we do.”

Despite potential cloudy skies, Robinson is looking forward to serving up his authentic delicacies to festival-goers rain or shine: “Fish and chips in the rain is very London,” he says with a laugh. “We welcome every single drop.”

Whether you prefer fish, crab, oysters, shrimp, lobster or a sampling of them all, here are a few highlights on the menu this weekend.

CRAB

Flash Crabcake Co.: This mobile crab company prides itself on peddling its signature six-oz. cakes at an affordable price ($10 with saltines and $11 as a sandwich on a potato roll). Flash will also be selling its classic cream of crab soup—an ideal snack to warm your soul in the potentially soggy weather.

Jimmy’s Famous Seafood: No Bawlmer seafood event is complete without hard-shell crabs. This Dundalk favorite—which has been particularly vocal about its love of crabs in response to the controversial PETA billboards that recently sprouted up in the city—will be slinging half-dozen orders of premium males while supplies last. Jimmy’s will also feature steamed shrimp and crabby fries for attendees who are down to get their hands dirty.

FISH

The London Chippy: The regional food truck, which makes stops everywhere from Northern Virginia to North Baltimore, will be frying up its signature cod and haddock and serving it alongside crispy “chips” and creamy coleslaw. Specials for the day will include mini lobster rolls, crab fries, and hush puppies.

RA Sushi: Harbor East diners are probably familiar with the colorful rolls at this dimly lit sushi spot. Catch RA at the festival to sample the Rainbow Roll (a classic California roll topped with tuna, yellowtail, shrimp, and salmon) and the Tootsy Maki, which mixes crab, shrimp, cucumber, and crunchy tempura bits and tops it in a sweet eel sauce.

OYSTERS

The Local Oyster: Head to the red, white, and black tent to slurp oysters from this fan-favorite seafood spot headquartered at Mount Vernon Marketplace. The Local Oyster will be shucking Skinny Dippers on the half shell from partner True Chesapeake Oyster Co. farmed in Southern Maryland.

The Urban Oyster: Swing by this local pop-up to visit chef Jasmine Norton, who will be hawking her oysters prepared three ways. Sample them raw, chargrilled, or fried and tucked into a taco with cilantro and lime.

SHRIMP

Nick’s Fish House: At this Port Covington staple, regulars typically start their meals off with an order of the chef’s famous “Boom Boom Shrimp”—crispy fried shrimp in a spicy Sriracha aioli. Try it at the festival alongside Nick’s crab balls and soft shell crab bites.

Southern Provisions: This Canton Square bar will be showcasing its Lowcountry influences with a warm shrimp gumbo over rice. Get your barbecue fix by pairing the gumbo with SoPro’s one-bite pulled pork sliders.

LOBSTER:

Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls: Chow down on mounds of Maine meat from this Annapolis favorite, which is widening its Baltimore footprint with a new stall in Belvedere Square and a yet-to-open Inner Harbor location. The brand will feature its classic rolls (chilled lobster salad with mayo and lemon), warm Connecticut-style rolls with butter, New England clam chowder, and signature “lobstah” bisque.

SNACKS

Alexander’s Tavern: Crab tots are an essential part of the Seafood Fest experience, and Alexander’s has some of the best in town. Dig in to the orders of crispy tots smothered in cheesy crab dip, or go handheld with a classic crab pretzel from the Fells Point pub.

Dessert Fantasies: If you happen to save room for dessert, local baker Tosha Williams will have plenty of cupcakes to satisfy sweet tooth cravings. Her Locust Point bakeshop highlights flavors ranging from to classic strawberry shortcake to chocolate fudge cakes topped with Berger cookie bits.

For many city dwellers, stopping by a neighborhood farmers’ market has become a part of the weekend routine. But what happens when you run out of farm-fresh vegetables and herbs in the middle of the week?

Merritt Dworkin, the mastermind behind the Fells Point Farmers’ Market, has launched a new producers-only bazaar that allows locals to restock their bounty on Wednesday afternoons through October. Featuring more than 20 vendors, the Canton Waterfront Farmers’ Market runs Wednesdays from 3:30-7:30 p.m. at Canton Waterfront Park.

“Finding the right location was so key,” Dworkin says. “Initially we wanted to do it on [O’Donnell] Square, but logistically we would have to shut down the street and it would really limit the number of vendors we could get in there. The waterfront seemed like a more natural fit—the view and the background are perfect.”

Aside from the sparkling backdrop, Dworkin says that the park’s location on Boston Street makes the market convenient for people running errands around Canton Crossing, or headed toward I-95 on their commute home.

The neighborhood was previously home to a farmers’ market on South Ellwood Avenue that ended in 2014. Since then, various groups, including the Canton Community Association, have been pushing for a family-friendly market on a consistent basis.

In only two weeks since it began, Dworkin has expanded the event’s footprint from 19 to 24 vendors. Many of them—including Ekiben, Gundalow Juice, One Straw Farm, and Boordy Vineyards—are regulars of the Saturday-morning market in Fells Point. (There will also be live acoustic music in Canton, similar to Fells Point.) But Dworkin has brought in a few newbies and amped up the number of prepared-food purveyors.

Looking ahead to next season, Dworkin hopes to extend the market’s run past October, giving patrons more opportunities to shop local year-round.

“With more farms now having greenhouses and hot houses, we’re hoping it will make it easier to expand our dates,” she says. “For me, it’s all about providing an event to help people support local whenever it’s available.”

Whether you’re heading over for an afternoon treat, or grabbing ingredients to whip up dinner at home, here are a few vendors to look out for at the new Canton market:

A Friendly Bread: Get your carb fix from this North Baltimore-based breadery—which bakes artisan loaves in varieties like walnut-date, pumpkin seed, whole wheat, caramelized onion, apricot cardamom, and chocolate chip.

Black Bottom Farms: This family farm brings its bounty straight from the small town of Galena on the Eastern Shore. Peruse produce including beets, eggplant, heirloom tomatoes, English cucumbers, and sweet basil.

Cheese Galore and More: If you can’t make it to Cheese Galore and More’s new digs on South Charles Street in Federal Hill, visit owner Sharon Johnson at the waterfront fête across the harbor. The specialty shop offers everything you need to create a bona fide charcuterie board—including baguettes, gourmet crackers, meats, olives, antipasti, and, of course, plenty of artisan cheeses.

Migue’s Magnificent Mini Doughnuts: These fried-to-order circles—made popular by the Fells Point market and the Baltimore Farmers’ Market under the JFX—are the ideal mid-week treat. Bury your order in DIY toppings like powdered sugar, chocolate syrup, sprinkles, or a seasonal mango-chili sauce.

Phil’s Dills and The Baltimore Whiskey Company: Dworkin, who intentionally stationed these two vendors side-by-side, encourages patrons to create their own pickleback shots with juice from Phil’s Dills and spirits from The Baltimore Whiskey Company, which is settling in a new home at Union Collective. Pro tip: Try the Sweet & Spicy bread and butter pickles backed by Epoch Rye.

Thai Street: Get a little taste of Bangkok by way of Canton with the authentic grub prepared by this local pop-up. Dishes to look out for include spicy tofu panang (a nutty red Thai curry), sweet mango sticky rice, and classic pad Thai noodles.

EAT

June 15-17: The Big Softy Pop-Up at R. House

R. House, 301 W. 29th St. Fri. and Sat. 9:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Free. 810-531-8022.

Soft-shell crab season is in full swing, and to celebrate, local chef Craig Falk is bringing his crustacean-centric pop-up concept to R. House for a few days of deep-fried deliciousness. This weekend, head to Remington’s popular food hall to get your hands on the Big Softy’s namesake soft crab sandwich, as well as daily specials like wild mushroom crab pasta on Friday, crab-and-corn stuffed squash blossoms on Saturday, and crab cakes for a dad-approved brunch on Father’s Day.

DRINK

June 16: Baltimore Wine Fest

Canton Waterfront Park, 3001 Boston St. 12-7 p.m. $15-89. 410-409-7123.

With temperatures predicted to climb into the mid-80s on Saturday, cool off with a few glasses of vino and a stroll around the picturesque Canton Waterfront Park. A ticket to this fourth annual festival allows you to sip on a selection of more than 160 wines from around the world, and pair your vintages with bites from local favorite like Ekiben and Taharka Brothers Ice Cream to balance out the buzz.

SEE

June 16: 1 West Mount Vernon Place Opening Celebration

The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 410-547-9000.

This Saturday marks the grand unveiling of The Walters Art Museum’s magnificent new 1 West Mount Vernon Place. After a four-year revitalization process, this 19th-century mansion has received a stunning facelift, with its Tiffany stained-glass skylight and grand spiral staircase on display in all its restored glory, plus a new ceramics exhibition on the second floor. Celebrate this historic space in the heart of Mt. Vernon with a block party featuring live music, eats from Dizzy Cow Pizzeria and Mr. Souvlaki, and ceramics-themed activities.

HEAR

June 16: Baltimore Band Block Party

WTMD, 1 Olympic Pl., Towson. 2-10 p.m. $20-60.

WTMD’s First Thursdays concerts are the see-and-be-seen shows of the summer, both for the fans in the crowd and the bands onstage. On Saturday, head to WTMD Studios to support local acts like singer-songwriter Shelby Blondell, dream-pop sirens Waterplanet, and epic rockers Lenore LeNoire as they compete for the chance to join the September lineup. During this annual fundraiser for the alternative radio station, each ticket buys a vote for your favorite act to perform a live set that night and to move onto the final round of this high-stakes competition.

DO

June 15-17: Baltimore Pride Weekend

Old Goucher, Charles North, & Station North. Locations & times vary. Free.

Rock your rainbow gear and celebrate Baltimore’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community during this weekend’s 43rd annual Baltimore Pride. With a jam-packed weekend of events, kick off the festivities on Friday night with the Twilight on the Terrace benefit cocktail party at Gertrude’s, a drag show at the First Unitarian Church of Baltimore featuring local queens Dusty Ray Bottoms and Washington Heights, and GayCon, a new Pride dance party created by Abdu Ali and featuring performances by DDm. On Saturday, join thousands at the annual big-bang block party, featuring the high heel race up Cathedral Street, the colorful 11-block parade to Station North, and headline performances by Baltimore Club maven TT the Artist and rising hip-hop artist Taylor Bennett. To wrap up the weekend, head to Druid Hill Park on Sunday for a family-friendly festival with live music, face-painting, and drag performances.

HonFest 

June 9-10. The Avenue, Hampden. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. Five years after winning the Baltimore’s Best Hon contest at the annual HonFest in Hampden, Stacy Hurley can still recite her interview question by heart: “Do you like the smell of Jean Nate or does it just keep the bees away?” With her hair stacked into a beehive and a dead-on Bawlmer accent, Hurley, right, stole the show by evoking her grandmother, who doused herself in Jean Nate powder after swimming in the ocean. “It made me realize how much of a Hon I’ve always been,” says Hurley. She now helps with the contest herself by encouraging others to don feather boas, cat-eye glasses, and sky-high hair and embrace the Hons’ blue-collar spirit. Bonnie Hockstein, who will manage the 25th anniversary contest with a wash-and-set hairdo as she has for the past decade, says Baltimore’s Best Hon is about honoring the legacy of the city’s working-class women. “It’s not a costume—you’re not acting,” says Hockstein. “It’s just you and your Hon self.”

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Maryland Half Marathon & 5k 
June 9. The Maple Lawn Community, 8161 Maple Lawn Blvd., Fulton. 8 a.m. $20-75. 410-328-8530. This race is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a brand-new course that takes racers through the rolling hills and tree-lined roads of Howard County. Whatever your fitness level, join hundreds of athletes participating in the 13.1-mile half marathon, 5K, or kids’ fun run to benefit the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center. At the finish line, celebrate with post-race festivities such as live music and awards for category winners.

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Tour Dem Parks, Hon 
June 10. Druid Hill Park, 900 Druid Park Lake Dr. 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. $20-55. From laid-back cruises to a challenging 56K ride, take a two-wheeled tour of Baltimore’s 6,000-acre park system full of trails, historical sites, and waterways. Experience the city’s diverse neighborhoods from the seat of your bike during this 16th annual event, and stick around for a post-ride barbecue and live jazz performance in Druid Hill Park.

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Luke Bryan 
June 14. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 7 p.m. $56-299. In the past year, he sang the National Anthem at Super Bowl LI, began judging
on American Idol, and now, for one night only, Luke Bryan will perform his boot-stomping hits on the
Merriweather stage. Hear this Southern superstar play songs from his latest album, What Makes You Country, along with classic country anthems such as “Play It Again” and “Kick the Dust Up.”

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Boundary Block Party 
June 16. Pennsylvania Triangle Park, Pennsylvania Ave. & Presstman St. 1-4 p.m. Free. 410-728-1199. For the past 11 years, Jubilee Arts and local advocacy group No Boundaries Coalition have thrown this annual block party to bring together Central West Baltimore residents across boundaries of race, class, and neighborhood. Celebrate the strength of the West Baltimore community with family-friendly art activities, a resource fair, fresh produce, and live performances by youth dance program Dynamic Force and the Twilighters Marching Band.

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Baltimore Wine Fest 
June 16. Canton Waterfront Park, 3001 Boston St. 12-7 p.m. $11-95. 410-409-7123. baltimorewinefest.com. Nothing says summer in the city quite like strolling through Canton Waterfront Park with a glass of red, white, or bubbly in hand. During this fourth annual wine festival, sip on more than 160 vinos from around the world, take in a wine seminar or a cooking demonstration, and sample eats from local favorites including Ekiben and Wicked Sisters.

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Def Leppard and Journey 
June 16. Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 7 p.m. $49.50-179.50. 410-347-2020. royalfarmsarena.com. It’s been 12 years since legendary rock bands Def Leppard and Journey, pictured, shared a bill, but this month, die-hard fans can relive the ’80s during their one-night stop in Charm City. With 40-plus years of music catalogs and touring under their belts, these heralded heroes of rock have set the bar for generations of musicians across the world. Hear them perform smash-hit classics including “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” “Rock of Ages,” “Don’t Stop Believin’,” and “Faithfully.”

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Baltimore Pride 
June 16-17. Old Goucher, Charles North, & Station North. Locations & times vary. Free. This year’s Baltimore Pride theme—United We Shine—highlights how the city will come together for the 43rd annual celebration of its LGBTQ community. During this rainbow-colored weekend, head to Station North for streetwide dance parties, an 11-block parade, and a high-heel race up Charles Street, followed
by an all-day, family-friendly festival in Druid Hill Park.

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Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival 
June 23. Rash Field, 201 Key Hwy. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & 5-9 p.m. Free-$95. 410-878-9900. mdcrabfest.com. As Marylanders, we all know that on a hot summer day there’s nothing better than breaking into a bushel of Old Bay-encrusted crabs accompanied by an ice-cold beer. Now in its fifth year, the largest crab feast in the city returns with more than 30,000 crabs and 50 beers, plus wine, spirits, and plenty of crab-cracking mallets to go around. Stake out a shady spot, spread out the brown picnic-table paper, and get crackin’ at this annual all-you-can-taste extravaganza.

Having a family doesn’t have to mean kissing your love of live music goodbye—at least not during Baltimore’s sunny seasons. Concert-hopping can totally be tougher with kids in tow, but this time of year the city is packed with outdoor, kid-friendly events parents can actually relax and enjoy. An atmosphere that puts parents at ease while catering to young ones means concert fun for all. This year, there’s plenty to choose from and few reasons to stay home.  

WTMD First Thursdays
The much-loved First Thursday concerts are back at Canton Waterfront Park starting May 3. Two stages, food vendors, drinks by The Brewer’s Art, and even a kid’s zone are sure to keep the whole family entertained. Artists like Jessica Lea Mayfield and Lake Street Drive will bring big crowds, so come early and post-up until those little yawns set in.

Summer Concerts at Oregon Ridge
This local park is known for its nature center and beautiful trails. But Oregon Ridge has music-lover appeal, too. From KarmaFest to Music in the Woods, and the always eagerly anticipated Hot August Music, the venue holds several day-long events perfect for every age. Kids can take listen to tunes, head over to the playground, and maybe snag a hug from the Oriole Bird, too (who tends to make an appearance at Hot August.

Belvedere Square Summer Sounds
If you’re in the market (Belvedere Market, that is) for a laid-back, post-work-week hang, Summer Sounds is just what the family ordered. Every Friday evening from May 25 until September 7, the square comes alive with music by local artists, and plenty of family dancing. Delicious food and slurpable drinks are available from Grand Cru and the market shops. Kids come for the face-painting, kid-zone games, and general running amuck with neighborhood friends. Parents stay for the music and sweet sangria. Equally sweet is the adult interaction and relaxed vibes the concerts never fails to bring.

MECU Pavilion (formerly Pier Six)
Not all concert venues are family-friendly, but MECU has a few perks that make bringing the kids a sinch. With lots of lawn space to roam, you won’t have to worry about tots getting lost in the shuffle or those little ear drums, either. Kids of all ages are welcome and those under two get in free. A few of this summer’s shows include Primus, LSD (Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle and Dwight Yoakam), and The Barenaked Ladies. And if you’re really in it for the kids, don’t miss KidzBop Live on August 10.

Summer Socials on the Waterfront
Waterfront Partnership makes West Shore Park another great spot to gather and get down. Every second Friday from May through August, food trucks line the streets while Dooby’s provides drinks for thirsty concert-goers. This year, performers like Kelly Bell Band, The New Romance, What’s Next, and The Loose Ties take the stage. Kids surely aren’t forgotten at this summer standby either, with creative kid-zone fun, like giant building blocks.

Shop and Eat to the Beat on the Avenue
Live music begins at White Marsh on May 25 and continues every Friday and Saturday through Labor Day. The first band of the year is Nelly’s Echo. Other performers include the Cajun and zydeco sounds of The Crawdaddies and reggae from Jah Works. Food can be purchased from any of the avenues eateries and beer, wine, and crushes are available in the event area. With plenty of retail stores to hit up nearby, there are tons of reasons to check out the family-centric weekly events.

Feet on the Street in Towson
Bands, bouncy castles, face-painting, and more make this Towson mainstay an event local families look forward to every year. On Friday evenings from May 18 through September 28, local bands like Jury, Crushing Day, and Kitty Black will perform. Families can relax, eat, drink, and get their feet moving over on Allegheny Avenue.

Summer Concerts at Merriweather Post Pavilion
While you might not want to take your kids to the Vans Warped Tour on Sunday, July 27 just yet (though the event is all ages—and they might just enjoy the mohawks and crowd-surfing!), Merriweather has plenty of day-long events that are perfect for the whole family. From the Capital Jazz Festival on Sunday, June 3 to the Summer Spirit Festival on August 4 and 5, there are more than a few concerts to choose from. The kid-friendly site has a spacious lawn with plenty of room for the kids to wiggle, cruise the vendors or just rock out.

With spring officially upon us, it’s time to start looking ahead to outdoor concert season. Each year, that starts with First Thursdays, presented by Towson’s alternative radio station WTMD.

From May through September on the first Thursday of the month, music lovers from near and far flock to the Canton Waterfront to hear a mix of local and national talents perform against the backdrop of the Baltimore harbor. Last year, the beloved monthly music festival grew from one to two stages, now including six bands and drawing thousands of attendees.

This year, 89.7 FM kicks things off on May 3 with an all-star lineup, featuring alt-rock legends Belly, who will be headlining in celebration of their first new album in 23 years, as well Philly rockers Low Cut Connie, D.C.’s roots band The Nighthawks and blues group Tom Principato Band, as well as Baltimore’s own soulful Ursula Ricks Project.

Throughout the rest of the summer, the series will highlight big-name acts like charismatic indie-soul quartet Lake Street Dive, soul sensation Bettye LaVette, and former Black Crowes bandmate-turned-Southern solo artist Jackie Greene. Local artists like power pop singer Andy Bopp and Cali-by-way-of-Ellicott City native Lauren Ruth Ward will also be in tow, plus indie darlings like Richmond pop singer Natalie Prass, San Francisco folksters The Family Crest, and L.A.’s electric Lo Moon.

The event will now include 15 food vendors, including Asian street-food eats from Ekiben, creative ice cream flavors from Taharka Bros., and farm-to-table fare from Wild Thyme. 

As in past years, the concerts are free and rain or shine. Music starts at 5:30 p.m.

See the full lineup—as of press time—below:

May 3: Belly, Low Cut Connie, Loma, The Nighthawks, Tom Principato Band, Ursula Ricks Project

June 7: Family Of The Year, Typhoon, Jessica Lea Mayfield, Danielia Cotton, Natalie Prass, Lauren Ruth Ward

July 5: Lake Street Dive, Andy Bopp, Van William, The Glorious Sons, etc.

Aug. 2: Bettye LaVette, Lo Moon, The Family Crest, The Legendary Shackshakers, Dave House & The Mermaid, etc.

Sept. 6: Jackie Greene, Daniel Nicole, etc.

Now in its fourth year, the Baltimore Seafood Festival has become an end-of-summer tradition for locals looking to properly soak up the final days of the season with waterfront views and seafood specialties from nearly 30 area restaurants.

“It’s not the typical concession stand food that you might see at some other large-scale events,” says organizer Beth Laverick, owner of B. Scene Events & Promotions. “It’s a true showcase for the local restaurants and food trucks.”

Returning to Canton Waterfront Park on Saturday, September 16 from 12-7 p.m., the bash highlights eats and drinks from a plethora of local purveyors, live cooking demonstrations, and family-friendly activities like parachutes and lawn games. Plus, a jam-packed local music lineup will showcase the bluesy sounds of Kelly Bell Band, familiar covers from Sons of Pirates, ska-influenced tunes from The Players Band, and roots and reggae jams from Strykers’ Posse.

Aside from the new bands, other fresh highlights will include a host of additional vendors joining the pack (The Elephant, Flash Crabcake Co., and Avenue Kitchen & Bar, just to name a few), and a program that admits VIP ticketholders one hour early to avoid long lines at the entrance and enjoy mimosas and pastries before the festivities officially begin.

Laverick estimates that the event will host nearly 8,600 festival-goers this year—more than double the total attendance of the inaugural fête in 2014.

“In general, Baltimore City is very casual—people like to eat, drink, and relax,” she says. “And they really enjoy being on the waterfront. Seafood and water just go together.”

While we’re sure all of the seafood staples will be scrumptious, here are a few items to look out for while strolling around the park next weekend:

Oyster Tacos from The Urban Oyster
Local chef Jasmine Norton is making a Seafood Fest debut this year, serving snacks from her new pop-up shop The Urban Oyster—which has appeared at various food halls and farmers’ markets this season and will soon debut a food truck. In addition to her signature chargrilled oysters, Norton will also offer seafood nachos (think toppings like shrimp, crabmeat, and beer-infused Old Bay queso) and an oyster taco topped with a pickled slaw. Laverick had the chance to sample the taco during Norton’s recent residency at R. House: “The acidity of the coleslaw with the fried oyster is the perfect combination,” she notes. 

Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
No true seafood festival is complete without an authentic lobster roll, and this Annapolis spot will have plenty on hand when it sets up shop at Canton Waterfront Park next weekend. The brand, which opened its Naptown flagship in 2014 and plans to expand with a stall in Belvedere Square Market this fall, tops its rolls with mounds of Maine meat that is served either classic (warm with melted butter) or salad (chilled with mayo, celery, and lemon) style. 

Baltimore Quesadillas from Mexican on the Run
Be on the lookout for this green machine, which has become known for its authentic tacos and burritos since it started roaming around the city last summer. Though many of the truck’s menu items are inspired by owner Jimmy Longoria’s roots in Mexico, the chef honors Charm City with the Bmore Quesadilla—which is filled with jumbo lump crab meat, shrimp, melted cheeses, and pico de gallo and topped with an Old Bay crema. Alongside the quesadillas, Longoria will also serve a special fish taco created exclusively for the event. 

Spicy Crab Deviled Eggs from DogWatch Tavern
This fan-favorite Fells Point sports bar, known for its signature beer towers and relaxed pub vibe, will be cooking up a storm next weekend. Swing by the DogWatch tent to sample eats including cream of crab soup and fried oyster po boys. The staff will also be slinging orders of spicy crab deviled eggs, which arrive topped with lump crab meat and a dash of Sriracha. “They’re my daughter’s favorite,” Laverick says of her 6-year-old, who accompanied her on a recent crawl to sample a few of the Seafood Fest dishes. “She’s an adventurous eater for her age. Once she ate one, she couldn’t stop.” 

Faidley’s Crab Cakes
The 131-year-old Lexington Market institution joins the lineup for the first time this year, peddling its signature crab cakes that owner Nancy Devine forms by hand. Aside from their vendor presence, the team will also be featured under the cooking demonstration tent—hosting a live tutorial on how to properly pick a crab. Laverick says that the demo will particularly come in handy for the out-of-towners heading in for the event: “I’m from New Hampshire, so I know that steamed crabs can be intimidating if you’ve never experienced them before,” Laverick says. “Getting Faidley’s to join was a huge win.”

As temperatures rise, there seem to be plenty of outdoor sipping celebrations planned across the region. But the annual Baltimore Wine Festival at Canton Waterfront Park, returning June 17, continues to stand out among the pack. “It’s such a picturesque venue,” says organizer Beth Laverick, who owns B. Scene Events and Promotions. “The waterfront is Baltimore’s trademark.”

Aside from the beautiful backdrop, Laverick mentions that the soiree’s family-friendly atmosphere, tiered ticket options, handmade goods for sale by area artisans, wine seminars, chef demonstrations, live music lineup, and array of local food vendors make it one of a kind. “I never want it to be focused solely on drinking wine,” she says. “There are a lot of other elements that make it really exceptional.”

The inaugural festival in 2015 drew a crowd of 4,000, and Laverick is expecting to accommodate more than 8,300 this year. She says that, as the festival evolves, she is most proud that it has become a summer tradition for locals and visitors alike. “It’s really a reflection of Baltimore’s local vibe and what we have access to,” says Laverick, who also organizes the annual end-of-summer Baltimore Seafood Festival, scheduled for September 16 this year. “You don’t find special events like this in every city.”

Here are a few new things to look for while strolling around this year’s wine wonderland:

A boost in featured wineries
Oenophiles will be happy to hear that the wine lineup has jumped from 140 to 160 this year, with samples ranging from worldly whites and reds to sangria and rosé. “The first year we didn’t order a lot of Moscato or sweeter whites because you don’t see them very often on menus around here,” Laverick says. “But we ran out immediately. So we’ve added a lot more of the refreshing, lighter, sweeter wines.” Meander around the grounds to mingle with local purveyors, as well as visiting vintners including California’s Delicato Family Vineyards.

An expanded music lineup
Nothing says summer like dancing in the grass with a glass of wine in hand, and this year the event has doubled the number of bands performing throughout the day. The diverse roster of local acts includes Americana and roots group The Crawdaddies, reggae rockers The Scotch Bonnets, and funk-fueled 8 Ohms Band. Laverick chose horn-heavy blues cover band Tumblehome to kick off the festival with the opening set: “They’re a bunch of local guys, who practice out of Living Classrooms and really love what they do. I love their local flavor.”

Additional eats from area restaurants
For Laverick, yet another way of stressing the local feel is through the festival’s food offerings. “I turn away the fried Oreo vendors because we’re not a fair,” she says. “We want to highlight the area’s best restaurants and food trucks.”

Vendors from the city and beyond will gather at the park to offer everything from steamed buns and barbecue to oysters and ice cream sandwiches. This time around, look out for new offerings including chicken salad sandwiches from Wicked Sisters, cheese plates and crab cakes from Firehouse Canton, colorful salads from Pasta La Vista, and shrimp salad sliders from The Local Oyster. Adds Laverick: “There are a lot of grab-and-go options for people who like to bring their blankets, find shade near the water, and camp out for the day.”

Early entry and mimosas for VIP ticketholders
Laverick says that the VIP ticket option—15 wine tastings and all-inclusive access to a private bar—has been a draw for many attendees since the inaugural festival. “The VIP is probably my favorite area of the event,” she adds. “You would think it would be so chaotic, but it’s actual really peaceful.” This year, VIP ticketholders will be admitted one hour early in order to avoid long lines at the entrance when the gates open at noon. Aside from early access to food vendors, top-tier ticketholders will also be able to enjoy complimentary mimosas, bagels, and pastries before the festival officially kicks off. Enter to win four VIP tickets to the festival here. 

Three new local breweries
We know, we know. A wine festival is all about the grapes, but it wouldn’t be a summer blowout without a few local beer options. If you’re not vehement on vino, crack open cans from regional breweries including Heavy Seas, Calvert Brewing, and Honor Brewing—the Chantilly, Virginia-based company that has become known for its philosophy of dedicating tap handles to honor veterans and fallen soldiers. 

Akimbo Dance & Movement Art Festival
Sept. 12. Station North Arts District. 1-6 p.m. Free. This September, Station North will be overrun with a band of artists, but they won’t be wielding paper or paintbrushes. Instead, they’ll be dancing and performing as part of this fourth annual arts festival celebrating creative diversity in Baltimore and beyond. For one afternoon, wander the neighborhood and see performances by 17 city and regional dance companies—including the Baltimore Dance Project, Masala Soul Project, and Full Circle Dance Company—at indoor and outdoor venues like Station North Chicken Box, The Windup Space, and Ynot Lot.

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Diana Ross
Sept. 13. Pier Six Pavilion, 731 Eastern Ave. 6 p.m. $40-100. 410-783-4189. Diana Ross is the O.D.—the original diva—first making her mark as the lead singer of The Supremes some 50 years ago. Her copious love songs and enduring pop hits—“Stop! In The Name of Love,” “Where Did Our Love Go,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” “I’m Coming Out”—have cemented her legacy as a fearless female force to be reckoned with. This month, catch her in the Inner Harbor for one unforgettable night.

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Baltimore Book Festival
Sept. 25-27. Baltimore Inner Harbor. Fri.-Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. 410-752-8632. Now in its 20th year, the Baltimore Book Festival is bigger and better than ever. Over three days, across multiple stages, hundreds of writers will be in attendance for readings, signings, workshops, and discussions. Hear locals Laura Lippman, D. Watkins, and Wes Moore, plus dozens of booksellers, cooking demos, kids projects, and live music.

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Kinky Boots
Sept. 29-Oct. 4. Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St. Tues.-Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 1 & 6:30 p.m. $47.50-131. 410-837-7400. In 2013, three decades after the release of “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” 1980s pop icon Cyndi Lauper made her Broadway composer debut with Kinky Boots. The smash-hit musical about bright red stilettos shattered box-office records with its warm-hearted, colorful cast and universal tale about overcoming hard times and stereotypes through spirit and strength. Its anthem says it all: “Just be who you want to be. Celebrate your life triumphantly.”

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Hampdenfest
Sept. 19. W. 36th St. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free.
Hampdenfest is all the free, street-festival fun of HonFest, but without the flamingos and frills. Instead, it’s just simple summertime pleasures—good beer, good music, and good friends. The Avenue will stir with a bevy of Baltimore talent, like indie-pop rockers Raindeer, post-punkers PLRLS, and this year’s headliner, Bosley. Toilet Race pot-peddlers will barrel down Chestnut Avenue, karaoke stars will compete in Hampden Idol, and onlookers will dangle out of colorful row-home windows.

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Baltimore Seafood Festival
Sept. 19. Canton Waterfront Park, 3001 Boston St. 12-7 p.m. Free-$100. As summer nears its end, celebrate the bay’s best at the city’s second annual seafood festival. Dig into Chesapeake cuisine from local eateries like Captain James, Jimmy’s Seafood, and The Local Oyster, and wash it all down with cocktails, wine, and beer. Feel the breeze off the Canton waterfront and groove to funky tunes by the 8 Ohms and Unity Reggae bands.

[Image credits from top: Hank Wang; Pier Six Pavilion; Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts; Matthew Murphy; Russ Bradshaw; Shutterstock.]

We prayed for heat all winter long, and now, with warm weather finally upon us, all we want is a little something to cool us down. With lots of vino varietals and cold craft brews in the Land of Pleasant Living, head to one of these festivals for local sips of summer spirits.

GREAT GRAPES WINE FESTIVAL
JUNE 6-7: Oregon Ridge Park, 13401 Beaver Dam Rd., Cockeysville. 12-6 p.m. Free-$56. 410-887-1818. At this alfresco day-drink, sample more than 30 Maryland wines in the great outdoors of Baltimore County, with live music and local vendors.

ANNAPOLIS ARTS, CRAFTS & WINE FESTIVAL
JUNE 6-7: Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, 550 Taylor Ave., Annapolis. Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$30. 410-263-4012. Just a short stroll from the historic heart of Annapolis, shop fine arts, browse handmade crafts, and sip on Maryland wine at the Naval Academy stadium.

CHESAPEAKE CRAB & BEER FESTIVAL
JUNE 13: Rash Field, 201 Key Hwy. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-9 p.m. $29-110. 410-396-7931. This second annual festival brings together Marylanders favorite things with more than 50 beers, wines, and spirits as well as all-you-can-eat crabs being offered six at a time per person. Plus there will be live music from slide guitarist The Sauce Boss and beach-themed tunes from Sons of Pirates.

RARE AND OBSCURE BEER FEST 2015
JUNE 19-21: Max’s Taphouse, 737 S. Broadway. 11-2 a.m. Free entrance. 410-675-6297. Head to the Fells Point beer palace for its annual celebration of scarce and unusual brews, with over 60 bottles and 70 drafts from around the globe.

FLYING DOG SUMMER SESSIONS
JUNE 20: Flying Dog Brewery, 4607 Wedgewood Blvd., Frederick. 6:30 p.m. $25. 301-694-7899. Kick off Flying Dog’s annual brewery concert series with chilled craft beers and Hurray for the Riff Raff, an up-and-coming, New Orleans-based Americana band with folk-blues undertones.

BALTIMORE WINE FEST
JUNE 20: Canton Waterfront Park, 3001 Boston St. 12-7 p.m. $38-75. 410-409-7123. At Baltimore’s inaugural wine festival, choose from dozens of vinos, snack on local gourmet bites, and listen to live music at the Canton Waterfront—also with a full bar and craft beer.

VINE REWIND
JUNE 20-21: Linganore Winecellars, 13601 Glissans Mill Rd., Mt. Airy. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $22.50-30. 301-831-5889. At this ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s throwback weekend, take a winery tour, try new wines with a souvenir tasting glass, and hear live, retro jams by two different bands.

City dwellers often counter the argument for county life and its more plentiful open spaces with some variant of the line, “But the
entire city is my backyard!” While this rebuttal conveniently overlooks certain realities of city life—traffic; crime; noise, light, and waste pollution; having to occasionally, you know, share—there is also a lot of truth to it. Does a suburban backyard have free outdoor concerts, two zoos (yes, two), five golf courses, miles of hiking and biking trails, an ice-skating rink, Chesapeake Bay access, an arboretum, and literally dozens of pools?

Indeed there is much to celebrate in Baltimore’s park system, probably more than you know, and it’s all right outside your door. With summer bearing down on us, here’s our guide to exploring the best of your own backyard—all 4,905 acres of it.

Druid Hill Park

2600 E. Madison Ave.,
druidhillpark.org

Acreage: 745.

Special Features: The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, a disc golf course, and one of the city’s 29 public pools. Druid Hill Lake, aka the Reservoir, and Boat Lake also draw walkers, bikers, and birders to their scenic shores. The 125-year-old Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory & Botanic Gardens is a jewel box of flora with five distinct greenhouses (including orchid and tropical rooms), plus a half-acre garden.

Summer Events: Every Wednesday from June through September, the park hosts an evening farmers’ market. The zoo is open daily from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and offers its much-loved Breakfast with the Animals program on select weekend mornings. The park lives up to its pagan namesake on June 21 with a Summer Solstice Celebration with hayrides, live music, tarot card readings, and storytelling.

Patterson Park

E. Baltimore St. and S. Patterson Park Ave.,
pattersonpark.com

Acreage: 55.

Special Features: The 1891 octagonal pagoda, open for climbing on Sunday afternoons through mid-October, is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. The Boat Lake is stocked with catchable fish. Though an ice rink in the winter months, the Dominic “Mimi” DiPietro Family Skating Center hosts floor hockey rec leagues all summer. Two adjacent dog parks—one for small pooches, one for large dogs—get lots of use. For a measly $2 admission fee, gain access to the park’s recently renovated swimming pool.

Summer Events: Spy up to 200 species during Patterson Park Audubon Center’s twice-monthly free bird walks. Cast your rod in the Boat Lake June 7 at the kid-friendly Fishing Festival. The ever-popular Friends of Patterson Park Concert Series returns with two to three concerts a month in June, July, and August. And LatinoFest celebrates its 34th year June 21-22.

Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park

1901 Ridgetop Rd.,
friendsofgwynnsfallsleakinpark.org

Acreage: 1,216.

Special Features: The 15-mile Gwynns Falls hiking and biking trail runs through the park. The Victorian Italianate manor house of railroad baron Thomas DeKay Winans still stands, as does his carriage house, and an American Gothic-style chapel built for his workers. For kids, a miniature steam-powered railroad with 3,400 feet of track provides free rides every second Sunday through November.Though smaller, the Carrie Murray Nature Center gives Druid Hill’s zoo a run for its money with fauna ranging from raptors to an albino Burmese python named Fluffy. (All animals are rescues or orphans.) A new “Rainforest Room” exhibit housing Madagascar hissing cockroaches, a Blue-fronted Amazon parrot named Cupid, and other exotic critters, opens June 7.

Summer Events: Carrie Murray offers nine weeks of summer camp for kids, plus regular kids’ programs focusing on owls (June 6), bees (June 21 and Aug. 30), and nocturnal insects (July 11 and Aug. 1).

Clifton Park

2801 Harford Rd.,
bmgcgolf.com/-clifton-park

Acreage: 267.

Special Features: The oldest of the city’s five municipal golf courses offers 18 holes for rates starting as low as $10. Elsewhere in the park, Civic Works’ Real Food Farm is making a go of urban agriculture with several hoophouses, an orchard, beehives, an herb garden, and field crops.

Summer Events: The golf course is open every day, weather permitting. Real Food Farm welcomes volunteers from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Wednesday and Friday, plus the first and third Saturday of the month from March through November.

Cylburn Arboretum

4915 Green Spring Ave.,
cylburn.org

Acreage: 207.

Special Features: Trees! From Kentucky coffeetrees to redwoods, Cylburn’s got you covered. Over three miles of trails will also take you through several gardens including daylily and rose plots. The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health’s Center for a Livable Future is conducting research in a cutting-edge agriculture practice called aquaponics on the premises. The farming method combines aquaculture (fish farming) and hydroponics (soilless plant farming) in a waste-free sustainable growing cycle. Regular tours of the project’s greenhouse are starting soon.

Summer Events: Enjoy outdoor yoga (June 7, 14, 21, 28); the Celebration of Art event (June 14-15) with exhibitions, lectures, and children’s activities; and a firefly walk (June 26).

Middle Branch Park

3301 Waterview Ave.,410-396-3838.

Acreage: Six miles of shoreline, marshes, and meadows.

Special Features: One of the city’s best-kept secrets, the park is the launch site for many area collegiate and high school crew teams. The two concrete boat ramps can accommodate anything from kayaks to large boats.The Gwynns Falls Trail runs through the park, and The Maryland Vietnam Veterans Memorial sits on a rise above the main parking lot.

Summer Events: The recs and parks department hosts periodic “open paddle” sessions, providing all equipment, a tutorial, and a guided tour for a nominal fee.

Mount Pleasant Golf Course

6001 Hillen Rd.,
classic5golf.com/-mount-pleasant; 6101 Hillen Rd., mtpleasanticearena.com

Acreage: approximately 110.

Special Features: In addition to the links, which have been played by the likes of Arnold Palmer, the park is home to the Mount Pleasant Ice Arena, the city’s only year-round skating pavilion.

Summer Events: Public skate times are held every day. Hockey and figure skating classes and clinics are held regularly, as well. Summer skating camps for ages 5 to 18 run from June 23 to July 25.

Canton Waterfront Park

3001 Boston St.,
bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/ParksTrails/CantonWaterfrontPark.aspx

Acreage: 2.5.

Special Features: A boat ramp and fishing pier provide stellar access to the water.The park is also home to Maryland’s Korean War Memorial.

Summer Events: WTMD’s popular First Thursdays concert series has relocated here from Mt. Vernon due to restoration of the Washington Monument. Upcoming shows will feature national acts such as Los Lonely Boys (June 5), Strand of Oaks (July 3), JD McPherson (Aug. 7), and The Hold Steady (Sept. 4)—all for free!

Roosevelt Park

1221 W. 36th St.,
bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/ParksTrails/RooseveltPark.aspx

Acreage: 18.72.

Special Features: One of the nicest public aquatic centers in the city can be found here, boasting a large outdoor pool, adjoining splash pad with towering water features, and a renovated pool house. Last month was the official grand opening of the first phase of the Skatepark of Baltimore. The gaping concrete bowl is ready for skateboard use and development of a street plaza landscape is in the offing.

Summer Events: Roosevelt Park and Recreation Center keeps a robust calendar of events, including coed volleyball on Wednesday and Thursday nights, community movie night (July 18), family game night (Aug. 8), and an environmental camp for ages 5 to 12 from June 23 to Aug. 15.

Fort McHenry

2400 E. Fort Ave.,
nps.gov/fomc

Acreage: 42.

Special Features: The city’s only national park is steeped in history. View the fort, barracks, the 1814 Guard House, and those immortalized ramparts.

Summer Events: Twice-monthly bird walks take advantage of the fort’s waterfront setting. As part of the ongoing bicentennial celebration of the War of 1812, the park is hosting Fort! Flag! Fire! Baltimore’s Star-Spangled Summer! with living history performances, cannon firings, fife and drum concerts, and lectures.

Carroll Park

1500 Washington Blvd., friendsofcarrollpark.blogspot.com/

Acreage: 117.

Special Features: Originally part of Declaration of Independence signer Charles Carroll’s Mount Clare estate and Georgia Plantation, Carroll Park’s history traces back to its pre-revolutionary site for industrial factories.The park is home to one of the two oldest Federal-style mansions still standing in Baltimore, which is open for tours guided by the National Society of Colonial Dames of America in traditional period dress.

Summer Events: Carroll is the closest golf course to downtown (about three miles), making it even easier to enjoy a quick round on a summer’s afternoon. (It’s an “executive,” aka nine-hole, course.) Don’t miss September’s The Shindig Festival (tickets on sale now) featuring Jane’s Addiction, Rise Against, Gogol Bordello, and Baltimore’s own J Roddy Walston & The Business, among others.

Cimaglia Park at Fort Holabird

Pine and Oak avenues

Acreage: 40.

Special Features: While the park’s recreational history dates to the seventies, Fort Holabird was constructed by the U.S. Army and used for various purposes from the 1920s to the 1950s. Upgrades to the park completed last November improved the park’s aesthetic appeal with enhancements like pedestrian pathways. Further renovations include two new half-courts for basketball and lighting for the ball fields.

Summer Events: Grow your own fruits and vegetables—from park to table. The Baltimore City Farms program offers rental garden plots for city residents looking to plant their own produce, herbs, and flowers in personal, fenced spaces.

Federal Hill Park

300 Warren Ave., bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/ParksTrails/FederalHillPark.aspx

Acreage: 10.

Special Features: Named for The Federalist­—a ship built by 4,000 local Maryland citizens to celebrate the state’s ratification of the constitution, Federal Hill Park boasts cannons and monuments in memory of the Battle of Baltimore, in addition to unrivaled views of the harbor. Also, be on the lookout for new, Under Armour-renovated basketball courts. Little known fact: There is an extensive network of tunnels within the hill, which are rumored to have once functioned as an “underground railroad” of sorts, with escape routes, storage for munitions, and a place to store cold beer from local breweries.

Summer Events: The American Visionary Art Museum will begin its annual “Flicks From the Hill” free outdoor movie series on July 10, and continue screenings every Thursday through August 28. Once named one of Travel + Leisure magazine’s “World’s Best Free Things”, the park’s steep slopes create a natural amphitheater for audiences to enjoy alfresco films.

Forest Park

2900 Hillsdale Rd, bmgcgolf.com/-forest-park

Acreage:140.

Special Features: A classic, 18-hole golf course situated amidst the hilly green landscape with a clubhouse perfect for special event receptions.

Summer Events: June 22 and 23 mark the qualifying rounds of the 2014 STX Baltimore Putting Championship, which features two competitive divisions—adult and junior. The top three qualifiers in each division will play the finals on June 25at Mount Pleasant Golf Course.

Herring Run Park

3800 Bel Air Rd., arcadia-baltimore.org/arcadia_herringrun_c.html

Acreage: 300.

Special Features: Open, flowery fields, a running stream, winding paths, and playing fields. Considered the dog-friendliest park in the city, there is plenty of foliage to explore here with pets, family, and friends. The park is home to the Christopher Columbus monument erected in 1792, as well as bike paths, and softball and soccer fields along the length of the stream.

Summer Events: The park welcomes the first annual Herring Run Around­­­—a 5K race on paved and dirt trails on June 28. Watershed alliance Blue Water Baltimore will host a picnic for volunteers and members following the race.

Latrobe Park

1518 Latrobe Park Terrace, sobosports.com/locs/latrobe.htm

Acreage: 6.

Special Features: Highlights include illuminated tennis courts, two basketball courts, a playground, and the gated Locust Point Dog Park, which features AstroTurf (no muddy paws!) and a waterslide for more adventurous canines.

Summer Events: Construction began on the Under Armour-funded $1.5 million Banner Field project this April, which will enhance the park with a turf field lined for football, soccer, and lacrosse. The field, named for the national anthem, will feature a sound system, scoreboard, running track, lights, and seating for 150 spectators. The Locust Point-based athletic company will also be making improvements to the playground. In summer, the park is frequented by the ASA Softball Leagues for co-ed evening games against local teams split according to skill-level.

Pine Ridge Golf Course

2101 Dulaney Valley Rd., bmgcgolf.com/-pine-ridge

Acreage: 224.

Special Features: Because nothing is ever simple, this county-situated course is actually owned and operated by the city due to its adjacency to Loch Raven Reservoir, which supplies much of Baltimore City’s drinking water. Home to many past PGA and LPGA tournaments, the 18-hole course also boasts a 45-station lighted driving range, which is open during the warmer months.

Summer Events: The Baltimore Municipal Golf Corporation and House of Ruth Maryland will host the 4th annual High Heels for Hope Longest Drive Contest on June 7. Proceeds will benefit House of Ruth’s mission to provide victims of partner violence with services to rebuild their lives. The twist? All contest participants must hit their drives while wearing a pair of high-heeled shoes—minimum two inches and no wedges or platforms—which will be donated to House of Ruth at the contest’s conclusion.

Reed Bird Island/Cherry Hill Park

101 Reedbird Ave., issuu.com/baltimorerecnparks/docs/cherry_hill_splash_park_pool_schedu

Special Features: Twin green spaces bifurcated by the Patapsco River as it empties into the Middle Branch, the park was Baltimore’s first waterfront park.Its rolling topography serves as a recreation area with picnic groves, fishing piers, a stage, and a shelter. Winding walking and bike paths along the shoreline lead to nearby Middle Branch Park.

Summer Events: The active public pool is perfect for cooling off post bike ride and offers swimming lessons on Saturday mornings.

Robert E. Lee Park

1000 Lakeside Dr., relpnc.org/

Acreage: 415.

Special Features: Another county-located but city-owned park, this popular bucolic spot just over the city-county line offerswaterfront activities including kayaking and canoeing, hiking trails, and the Paw Point Dog Park, which allows dogs water access, as well. Two pavilions, one overlooking the Lake Roland Dam and one perched hilltop, are ideal for family picnics.

Summer Events: The park, which, although owned by the city, is operated by Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks, offers a variety of activities for families including kayaking and fishing lessons, night hikes, and day camps. A full schedule of events can be found here.

Wyman Park

3100 N Charles St., wymanparkdell.org

Acreage: 88.

Special Features: Designed by the Olmstead Brothers, Wyman’s sweeping lawn is home to two monuments erected in honor of the Civil War. The Union Monument Plateau, engulfed by cherry trees, features a vigilant Union soldier flanked by goddesses. At the park’s other end, the Lee-Jackson Monument honors Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson.

Summer Events: Enjoy Music in the Park on June 18 and 25 with a free concert and outdoor movie. On July 27 there will be a special performance by jazz, funk, and world-rhythms band, the Swingin’ Swamis.

Julia Pellegrini, library technician, University of Maryland: Cromwell Valley Park! The trails are endless and it’s rarely crowded.

Shannon Delanoy, designer and seamstress, Sweet Pepita: Druid Hill Park—my kids love the playgrounds, the zoo, and all the friends they make.

Sarah Bregel, personal trainer: We love Robert E. Lee because of all the great trails. They also have events like maple sugaring and natural egg dyeing!

Jessica Muffoletto, marketing specialist, Kettler Management: The Lenore apartments [Downtown] has its own personal dog park and outside grilling area on the third floor. It’s pretty awesome!

Mary-Margaret Stepanian, PR executive: Canton Waterfront Park is my weekday go-to on a beautiful day. Bag my lunch and chillax—always great for people and dog watching!

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