2/18-19: Charm City Django Jazz Festival 
Roughly 93 years ago in Paris, sequestered in a gypsy caravan, a young Django Reinhardt and his wife, Florine Mayer, were about to get some sleep—until their home went up in smoke. The fire spread when the 18-year-old, Belgium-born Reinhardt knocked a candle to the ground, engulfing their trailer in flames. Two of Reinhardt’s left fingers were badly damaged in the fire.

Thanks to the disfigured digits, gone were pursuits of playing violin or banjo, but Reinhardt would eventually regain his strength with newfound sights set on guitar. As one of Europe’s finest jazz musicians, he would go on to perform with such giants as Louis Armstrong, Rex Stewart, and Dizzy Gillespie. Though he passed away in 1953, Reinhardt’s legacy endures each winter at the Creative Alliance, which is set to celebrate its seventh Charm City Django Jazz Fest later this month. Among greats poised to shake up the beloved Highlandtown venue—which will come alive with two days of flamboyant riffs and runs—are New York fusion quintet Baklava Express and local ensemble Ultrafaux.

2/1-27: BEHOLD, A NEGRESS
Delve into Napoleonic-era Paris through this world-premiere performance at the Everyman Theatre, which chronicles the torrid bond between a painter and her muse: a once-enslaved Black woman. Everyman Theater. Times vary. $19-69. 

2/1-28: LUNAR NEW YEAR
All month long, ring in the Chinese holiday at home with streamed performances from celebrations past, and learn everything there is to know about the Year of the Tiger through curator-led talks. The Walters Art Museum. Times vary.

2/2: JULIA JACKLIN
Joined by New York-based songstress Annie Blackman, the Aussie-born musician sports her storytelling prowess and a range of lilting vocals on the Ottobar stage. Ottobar. 7 p.m. $20. 

2/3-4/17: CONTINUOUS LINE
Using everything from oil sticks and paint to colored pencil, Baltimore-born artist Ernest Shaw examines African tradition and diaspora (as seen in the U.S.) with this new solo exhibition. Top of the World Observation Gallery. Times vary. Free-$8. 

2/5: BOOKLOVERS AT THE PRATT, FT. IMBOLO MBUE
At Enoch Pratt’s Cathedral St. branch, The New York Times best-selling great behind Behold the Dreamers and How Beautiful We Were sits down with Civil Rights investigator M’Balu Bangura. Enoch Pratt Free Library. 10 a.m. $15. 

2/5, 2/12: MARIA BROOM: DANCE MEDICINE AND MINDFULNESS
Through this invigorating, family-friendly crash-course, the celebrated homegrown actress, teacher, and “joybringer” melds her knack for mindful movement with Zen breathing exercises. Port Discovery. 11:10 a.m. $19.95. 

2/5: TINDER LIVE WITH LANE MOORE
Take notes. This Big Apple comic’s improvised one-woman show totes everything from dating tips to real-time calls with Tinder matches. Ottobar. 7 p.m. $20. 

2/9: HOT WATER MUSIC
The Florida-hailing punk rock group wreaks havoc on the Ottobar alongside fellow hardcore hefts Tim Barry and Be Well. Ottobar. 7 p.m. $29. 

2/10: EMERGE BALTIMORE
Curator Kirk Shannon-Butts unveils the up-and-coming works of three homespun creatives with this quarterly exhibit. Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $8. 

2/11: VALENTINE’S CLASSIC SOUL: THE MANHATTANS
The quintessential doo-wop group, known for hits like “Kiss And Say Goodbye,” electrifies The Lyric stage with help from friends including The Delfonics, Gerald Alston, and Enchantment. The Lyric. 8 p.m. $45-125. 

2/11-13: AMERICAN CRAFT MADE MARKETPLACE
This three-day celebration with a slew of crafty makers, stationed all across the map, heads to the Baltimore Convention Center chock-full of handmade goods (think jewelry, glassware, clothing, furniture, and more). Baltimore Convention Center. Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. 

2/12: TASSELS AND CHAMPAGNE: RETURN TO GLAMOUR
With host Maria Topcatt, The Gilded Lily troupe touches down in Highlandtown to provide the evening’s pleasures with burlesque, some much-missed glitz, and fabulous divas. (Baltimore-based crown jewel Tempete La Coeur makes an appearance.) Creative Alliance. 7 and 10 p.m. $28-135.

2/13: MORTIFIED
On the eve of Valentine’s Day, grown- ups bear their teenhood hearts in Highlandtown with sappy musings, diaries, and chuckle-worthy love letters galore. Creative Alliance. 6 p.m. $19- 22. 

2/14: A DATE WITH JOHN WATERS
Baltimore’s own Pope of Trash delights devout “filth followers” with spit fire takes on fashion, true crime, film, and all things lewd. Baltimore Soundstage. 7 p.m. $44-110. 

2/15-20: SUMMER: THE DONNA SUMMER MUSICAL
At the Hippodrome, this ode to Donna Summer’s final show, and her catalog of dance-floor hits like “Hot Stuff,” features stories from her life and pioneering reign as the eternal Queen of Disco. Hippodrome Theater. Times vary. $52-149. 

2/16: VUNDABAR
The Massachusetts indie-rockers set their sights on the Ottobar with trademark banter, gnarly riffs, and captivating drumwork. Ottobar. 7 p.m. $16.

2/18: TREY KENNEDY
This Oklahoman funnyman (of Instagram and TikTok fame) is bound to leave the Lyric stage in stitches with his wholesome yet outlandish sketches. The Lyric. 7 p.m. $34-150. 

2/18: WINE AND DINOSAURS
At the Science Center’s Dino Hall, spot prehistoric reptiles as you sample grownup sips. Between smooth and fermented swigs, don’t miss the chance to view your choice libation under microscopic lenses. Maryland Science Center. 7 p.m. $40. 

2/19-20: BALTIMORE NEGRO BASEBALL LEAGUE
In honor of Black History Month, head to Port Discovery to learn how brazen pioneers transformed a cherished pastime. Port Discovery. 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $19.95. 

2/19: SHOW WHAT YOU KNOW GAME SHOW: PRESIDENTS DAY
Ring in the time-honored holiday, and birthday of George Washington, by matching former presidents with trademark facts for chances
to win patriotic prizes. Port Discovery. 3 p.m. $19.95.

2/24-27: PATRICE RUSHEN CLASSICS QUARTET
The four-time Grammy-nominated face behind “Forget Me Nots” takes Harbor East for four whole nights with fellow jazzy stars, including saxophonist Ernie Watts and drummer Marvin Smitty. Keystone Korner. 7:30 p.m. $35-45. 

2/26: VIVA BRASIL! MID-WINTER CARNIVAL DANCE PARTY
Creative Alliance’s annual ode to the land of Brazil boasts bright, costumed performances, thrilling dance workshops, and soul-stirring melodies, brought by creatives like Pablo’s Baile Band. Creative Alliance. 8 p.m. $15-18. 

2/27-8/2: MAJOLICA MANIA
Hackerman House plays host to 300-plus informative homages to the luminous, glazed objects and their lavish, bygone heyday with this walkthrough exhibition. The Walters Art Museum. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 

2/26: CARD PRINTING WORKSHOP
Join BMI’s own Jesse Lentz to master rubber stamp-carving and print-making (materials included with the price of registration). Baltimore Museum of Industry. 10:30 a.m. $30-35. 

TO 3/27: THADDEUS MOSLEY: FOREST
Explore the works of Pittsburgh sculptor Thaddeus Mosley, whose abstract wooden innovations helped to cement the 95-year-old’s status as the “keeper of old trees.” The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

TO 4/3/2022: ALL DUE RESPECT
Projection mapping, woodblock print panels, furniture, and other unconventional mediums are utilized by four local female artists to showcase the beauty behind individuality and the cycles of life. The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.- Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 

TO 5/8: MICKALENE THOMAS: A MOMENT’S PLEASURE
In what is said to be her most expansive commission, the BMA’s East Lobby will transform to reflect the lauded New Jersey painter’s trademark essence in a series of displays. The Baltimore Museum of Art. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 

TO 7/30: LOSING WINTER
Through a range of photographs, this exhibition portrays Marylanders’ reflections on past winter seasons. As the state’s climate changes, their recollections detail a sense of personal loss. Maryland Center for History and Culture. Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free-$9. 

TO 9/4: HEALING AND THE ART OF COMPASSION (AND THE LACK THEREOF!)
Retiring AVAM founder Rebecca Hoffberger curates her last exhibition, where artists explore the symbiotic relationship between healing and compassion. American Visionary Art Museum. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$15.95. 

Charm City Django Jazz Fest
Feb 21-22. When Michael Joesph Harris hopped off the Creative Alliance stage in 2014 after playing a successful concert of tunes inspired the legendary jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt, he could tell by the energy in the theater that Baltimore audiences wanted more Gypsy jazz. Fast forward two years, and Harris, left, who is the founder of local groups Ultrafaux and The Hot Club of Baltimore, opened the doors to the first Charm City Django Jazz Fest, which hosts Gypsy jazz musicians from across the world for performances, jam sessions, and workshops. Harris says that the festival (this year from February 21-22) has helped revitalize the finger-plucking community within the city’s arts scene. “Keeping the legacy of Django Reinhardt and that sense of originality rooted in tradition alive is a big part of what we’re doing with the festival,” Harris says. 3134 Eastern Ave. 8 p.m.. $28-75. —KP

---

The American Craft Show
Feb. 21-23. Calling all crafters! This annual weekend-long event is known for being a DIY haven, and this year’s lineup of more than 600 vendors from across North America will not disappoint. Browse through the Baltimore Convention Center’s vibrant marketplace to shop for everything from jewelry and clothing to furniture and home goods. Whether you leave with new baskets or necklaces or a dress, stop by to snag some thoughtfully made pieces. Baltimore Convention Center. $14-36. Time varies.

---

Ornamenta
Feb. 1. Every winter, the Baltimore Jewelry Center—known around town for its hands-on workshops and classes—hosts Ornamenta, the nonprofit’s fundraiser to benefit its educational and studio rental programs. For one night only, take in breathtaking works by local artists, rub elbows with up-and-comers in the city’s arts scene, and celebrate the success of this Station North staple by donating to this worthy cause. Impact Hub, 10 E. North Ave.. $100-575. 7-11 p.m..

---

Wicked
Feb. 12-March 8. The Hippodrome Theatre keeps the Broadway sensations coming with this four-week run of Wicked. Travel to the Land of Oz (before the days of Dorothy and friends) as two witches form an unlikely friendship: one bubbly and popular and the other smart, misunderstood, and green-skinned. Experience the iconic story of how they grew to become Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West during this bucket list production. Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St.. $70-246. Time varies.

---

A Date with John Waters
Feb. 14. Can you imagine a better Valentine’s Day date than an evening with Baltimore’s own Sleaze Supreme, John Waters? Devoted fans will rub shoulders with Waters noobs at Baltimore Soundstage during this evening with the venerable filmmaker and cornerstone of Charm City pop culture. Who can say where Waters will take his ever-evolving one-man show? All we know for sure is that no holds will be barred. 124 Market Pl.. $44. 8 p.m..

---

R. Eric Thomas
Feb. 20. Join Elle senior staff writer, nationally recognized playwright, and Baltimore native R. Eric Thomas as he reads from his newly released memoir, Here for It. With a daily humor-politics column, Thomas has had plenty of practice using words to reconcile his identity, religious faith, and the recent social shifts within our country. After reading through our profile of this laugh-out-loud author on page 70, make plans to join fellow fans for this reading at Enoch Pratt’s Central Library. Enoch Pratt Free Library. Free. 7 p.m..

---

Small Foods Party
Feb. 8. Whoever coined the term “the bigger, the better” clearly never attended this teeny snacks party at the American Visionary Art Museum. At this 15th annual bash/competition, bring your appetite (and a tiny silverware set) to sample a smorgasbord of bite-sized eats made by local home chefs and makers. Don’t miss this weird and wonderful opportunity to taste itty-bitty bites of fan-favorite foods such as crab cake sandwiches and cinnamon rolls and help crown this year’s “Bad Idea” award. American Visionary Arts Museum. $5-20. 7 p.m..

---

Celine Dion
Feb. 24. If you weren’t planning to catch legendary performer Celine Dion’s “Courage” world tour at the Royal Farms Arena, think again. After a more than 10-year hiatus, this world-renowned pop powerhouse is back on the road, and she’s sure to enchant Baltimore with classic hits such as “My Heart Will Go On” and “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now.” Snag tickets early to experience a night of belting out high notes and worshipping at the feet of the queen of adult contemporary, which is almost guaranteed to help your heart go on a little longer. Royal Farms Arena. $150-849. 7:30 p.m..

---

Frozen Harbor Music Festival
Feb. 28-March 1. Not even the icy weather could stop this party. Now in its fourth year, this frozen music festival will take over nine rock venues across downtown, including Rams Head Live! and Mosaic Night Club and Lounge, for three days of nonstop sets by more than 100 rising acts. Make plans to hop from venue to venue to catch performances by hip hop, rock, and rap groups in the heart of the Inner Harbor and don’t forget to grab a picture with the party-animal polar bear Mascot, Koasty, before the end of the weekend. Power Plant Live! 34 Market Pl.. $20-225. Fri 7 p.m.-Sun 1:30 a.m..

---

Fake Wedding
Feb. 29. Back by popular demand, this fake-wedding party, hosted by local nonprofit action network Volunteering Untapped, is one of the winter’s can’t-miss affairs. After “celebrating” the matrimony of two randomly selected guests, pop the champagne, throw away the vows, and then spend the rest of the night dancing like nobody’s watching. Head to downtown’s Columbus Center for this (fake) ceremony between a (fake) bride and groom, and enjoy (very real) food, drinks, and a night of fundraising for a do-good cause. Columbus Center, 701 E. Pratt St.. $75-800. 7-11 p.m..

EAT

Feb. 23: Noche de Carnaval

Monument City Brewing Company, 1 N. Haven St. 7-11:30 p.m. Free-$5

Since Rosalyn Vera received an alleged death threat a few weeks ago for hanging an anti-Trump poster inside her Fells Point restaurant, Cocina Luchadoras, she’s gotten an outpouring of support from the Baltimore community in the form of explosive sales and record-setting crowds. This Friday, the Mexican street food staple is teaming up with Monument City Brewing Company for this one-of-a-kind carnival featuring dance performances by Naciones Unidas, mask-making crafts, sweets by Full Circle Artisan Palace, and, of course, tons of tacos and tamales. With ticket sales benefitting Sanctuary Streets, a local organization that accompanies immigrant community members to legal proceedings, there’s never been a better way to support our inclusive community.

DRINK

Feb. 22: National Margarita Day

Location, times, and prices vary.

After six long years of mid-week hangovers, National Margarita Day finally landed on a Friday and we couldn’t be more prepared to celebrate with something strong, on the rocks, with salt. Spend your post-work happy hour at local spots known for their margaritas (think Clavel, Alma Cocina Latina, and Vida Taco Bar) or, if you’re feeling brave, grab a mezcalerita and belt out your favorite hit during late-night karaoke at R. House. For a full list of tequila-filled ways to spend National Margarita Day, check out our roundup of specials and events.

SEE

Feb. 22-24: American Craft Show

Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $40-50.

Whether you’re visiting this revered makers’ festival for an hour or for the entire weekend, the American Craft Show is guaranteed to have something for everyone. The three-day downtown event, which features work by artisans from near and far, hosts wares such as jewelry, ceramics, and furniture at every price point. Be sure to stop by one-of-a-kind booths like Tristan Sopp’s, where you can buy DIY folded-paper animals, and Marc Tickle’s, which features handmade kaleidoscopes.

HEAR

Feb. 22-23: Charm City Django Jazz Fest

Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 8 p.m. $25-28.

In celebration of this finger-plucking music genre pioneered by Belgian jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt, gypsy jazz musicians from near and far will take over Creative Alliance for two days of blazing guitar runs and jazz heat during this fourth annual jam fest. Revel in the chance to hear the likes of Ellicott City-based wunderkind Samuel Farthing, local jazz group Ultrafaux, and Philly-based accordionist Dallas Vietty and his group Passarinho.

DO

Feb. 23: Melanin Market

Union Craft Brewing, 1700 W. 41st St. 12-5 p.m. Free.

To honor Black History Month, Union Craft Brewing will transform the taproom into a full-blown market this Saturday, featuring goods made by some of the city’s best black artists, makers, and vendors. In between sets by DJs James Nasty and dagm, browse through vintage clothes, beauty products, and sporting goods from popular local vendors like Keepers Vintage, Power Decals, and This Sporting Life. Be sure to stick around to catch a performance by the Baltimore Go Getters marching band at 4 p.m.