Mayor’s Christmas Parade
When Debbie Oxnard walked with The Silver Steppers, an area equestrian drill team, in the Mayor’s Annual Christmas Parade for the first time in 2009, her participation was a complete surprise to her mother. To Oxnard’s family, watching the annual parade has become as cherished a tradition as Christmas morning, so when she rode by her mother’s home on Hampden’s 41st Street with the whole family watching, her mom was shocked. “We quickly took pictures while the parade was stopped at a red light,” Oxnard says with a laugh. This year’s procession on December 8 will be Oxnard’s 10th time riding in the parade, with her family cheering the group on from their front stoop with hot cocoa in hand. “I grew up watching that parade, so riding in it is amazing,” she says. “It’s like coming home.”—KP Location varies. 1 p.m.. Free.

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Night of 100 Elvises
Dec. 6-8. Trust us: You can’t help falling in love with The Lord Baltimore Hotel’s annual Night of 100 Elvises. For the 26th year, the downtown venue will pack three of its rooms with entertainment fit for The King, including dozens of Elvis impersonators, tribute artists, and plenty of hip-thrusting dance moves. With classic car displays, vintage rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia, an Elvis ice sculpture, and, new this year, a themed wedding chapel, attendees definitely won’t be lonesome on this night. Lord Baltimore Hotel, 20 W. Baltimore St.. 7-11p.m.. $62-876.

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Washington Monument Lighting
Dec. 5. You can’t call yourself a true Baltimorean until you’ve attended the region’s longest-running holiday tradition in the heart of Mt. Vernon. Join thousands of onlookers around the Washington Monument and watch in awe as fireworks light up the night sky to mark the start of another holiday season. After the show, peruse a holiday village, catch a live performance, and duck into local haunts like Wet City and Dooby’s to warm up with fellow revelers and drink specials. Mount Vernon Place. 5-8 p.m.. Free.

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Adorned: African Women and the Art of Identity
Dec. 11-June 19, 2020. Learn more about the incredibly strict gendered division of artistic labor that existed in sub-Saharan Africa throughout the 19th and 20th centuries through this new exhibition at The Baltimore Museum of Art. Opening this month, this thought-provoking display will bring two dozen pieces from the museum’s collection together, including jewelry, dyed textiles, and intricately decorated gourds, to illustrate how the types of works created by men and women shaped the social identities of that time. 10 Art Museum Dr.. Time varies. Free.

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The Stoop Holiday Hootenanny
Dec. 12. What could be more Baltimore than coming together to tell stories around a metaphorical stoop? Get together with friends and neighbors at The Senator Theatre for an evening of cocktails, a bluegrass performance from local father-son duo Ken and Brad Kolodner, and listening to brave Baltimoreans share stories, from heartwarming to outrageous, about past holiday experiences. This Stoop stomp is sure to keep you inspired throughout the season. The Senator Theatre. 7 p.m.. $15-25.

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Jesus Christ Superstar
Dec. 17-22. Fifty years ago, acclaimed composer Andrew Lloyd Webber debuted this rock-inspired soundtrack to Jesus Christ’s final weeks. Now, the musical phenomenon has been revived for a powerhouse anniversary tour. Whether you’ve got heaven on your mind, or you’re just feeling like a superstar, head downtown to the Hippodrome Theatre to see Jesus Christ in all his singing and dancing glory. 12 N. Eutaw St.. Time varies. $80.50-160.

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A John Waters Christmas
Dec. 19. As long as he lives to peddle impudence, John Waters will host his annual one-man holiday show, “A John Waters Christmas,” where nothing is off-limits. Will this local filmmaking icon go toe-to-toe with President Trump’s recent Twitter attacks on Charm City to set the record straight, or will he set his sights elsewhere? Whatever the Pope of Trash has in store, head down to Baltimore Soundstage for a refreshing taste of his typical twisted humor. 124 Market Pl.. 7 p.m.. $44.

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BSO Holiday Spectacular
Dec. 21. Nothing rings in the holiday season quite like tap-dancing Santas. This exciting program at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall will transport you to a holiday haven, featuring the crowd-favorite Santas, an audience sing-along, and a few other musical surprises. Stay in the holiday spirit after the show with opportunities for family photos, holiday cookies, and ornament shopping in the lobby. The Meyerhoff Theatre. Time varies. $17.50-75.

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Kwanzaa Celebration
Dec. 28. Every year, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum hosts an all-out Kwanzaa celebration that brings Baltimoreans from all walks of life together to honor this week-long holiday that lauds African heritage in African-American culture. Head to the downtown museum to experience African dance and drumming performances, workshops, lectures, crafts, and even a marketplace with the theme Ujima: Collective Work and Responsibility. In between activities, walk through the galleries to view exhibitions such as EMPOWERED! Black Action Figures, Superheroes, and Collectibles. 830 E. Pratt St.. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.. $5.

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New Year’s Eve Spectacular
Dec. 31. While there will be no shortage of celebratory dinners, parties, and concerts to ring in the start of a new decade, this Inner Harbor extravaganza is certainly the centerpiece of the evening. With a fireworks show that can be seen from waterfront neighborhoods like Federal Hill and Canton, as well as live music and dancing along the Inner Harbor promenade, this annual New Year’s Eve Spectacular is a can’t-miss way to welcome the start of 2020. 100 Light St.. Time varies. Free.

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EAT

Dec. 1: Old Thyme Christmas

Location & times vary, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Free.

Fells Point already feels otherworldly thanks to its storied history and cobblestone charm, but, for the 15th year, the neighborhood will transform into a winter wonderland during this annual fête. Snap pictures with Santa Claus after he arrives by tugboat at 9 a.m., and then join Ol’ St. Nick for all-you-can-eat breakfast buffets at waterfront staples like Abbey Burger, Alexander’s Tavern, and The Admiral’s Cup. Stick around to compete in eggnog-drinking and “carole-oke” contests, and then cap off the night by witnessing the annual tree lighting in Broadway Square and the Lighted Boat Parade floating down the harbor.

DRINK

Dec. 2: Patterson Park 5K, Fun Run, and Homebrew Tasting

2601 E. Baltimore St. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $15-45.

If you’ve ever jogged the length of Patterson Park and craved an ice-cold beer afterward, this is the race for you. At this seventh annual fundraiser for Patterson Park Public Charter School, start your afternoon with a one-mile or 5K run. Then, once you catch your breath, head over to the beer garden to sample local homebrew submissions. Cast your vote for your favorite pour, and spend the rest of the afternoon sipping beers by Full Tilt Brewing and jamming to live music by area acts Black Eyed Boh and Chris Diller.

SEE

Dec. 2: Mayor’s Christmas Parade

4207 Edgehill Ave. 1-5 p.m. Free.

Celebrate the first weekend of the holiday season with this 46th annual parade that leads a jolly assortment of local marching bands, giant balloons, festive floats, a fleet of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and, of course, Santa Claus and Miss Yuletide through the streets of Medfield and Hampden. Join thousands of onlookers along the two-and-a-half-mile parade route—which begins at Poly Western High School, winds down Cold Spring Lane, and ends at 37th Street—to catch some candy, sip on hot cocoa, and give a wave to Mayor Catherine Pugh.

HEAR

Dec. 2: The Beach Boys

The Modell Lyric, 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 6-9 p.m. $50-120.50.

Of all of the bands that have shaped the history of pop music, these iconic, California-loving boys are still at the top of the list. And while the whole band isn’t back together, you can feel all of the good vibrations and hear original bandmate Mike Love croon to sun-kissed hits like “Surfin’ U.S.A.” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” on the Lyric stage. As an added bonus to a night filled with beachy favorites, a copy of Love’s new collection of holiday songs, Reason for the Season, is included with every ticket.

DO

Dec. 1: Night of 100 Elvises

Lord Baltimore Hotel, 20 W. Baltimore St. 4 p.m.-1 a.m. $55-1,500.

Dust off your white jumpsuit and blue suede shoes—the most rockin’ Elvis-themed party of the year is back and groovier than ever. This 25th extravaganza dedicated to the King of Rock n’ Roll boasts three rooms (Calvert Ballroom, The Jungle Room, and the Viva Las Vegas Lounge) filled with back-to-back performances by tribute artists and impersonators that will keep you swiveling your hips all night long. While the music is the main event, don’t forget to admire the vintage memorabilia, Elvis ice carving, and, above all else, grab a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich for the ride home.

Night of 100 Elvises
Dec. 1. The Lord Baltimore Hotel, 20 W Baltimore St.. 4 p.m.-1 a.m. Prices vary. When he was 15 years old, Jed Duvall watched an Elvis Presley impersonator perform in his high-school auditorium and thought: “I bet I could do that.” On the bus ride home, he stood up and belted out “Heartbreak Hotel” to the astonishment of his classmates, and he has been perfecting his impression of the King of Rock and Roll ever since. Unlike other Elvis-themed events, where he’s one of dozens of entertainers donning the singer’s signature white jumpsuit and mutton chops, Duvall looks forward to the Night of 100 Elvises, taking place this year on December 1, where the only thing the bands and acts have in common is that they’re performing songs by the King. “When you hear a bluegrass band do ‘Suspicious Minds,’ then it’s a party,” he says. “At the end of the day, we’re all out here honoring Elvis any way we know how.”

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Washington Monument Lighting
Dec. 6. 699 Washington Pl. 5-8 p.m. Free. ’Tis the season for the city’s longest-standing holiday tradition, which fills the cobblestone streets of Mount Vernon Place with thousands of visitors, festive performances, and tons of holiday cheer. After fueling up on hot cocoa and snacks from local vendors, find the perfect spot on the lawn to watch the big-bang firework display illuminate the night sky during the annual lighting of the beloved Washington Monument.

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Olde Tyme Christmas

Dec. 1. Fells Point. 9AM-7PM. Prices Vary. Fells Point already feels otherworldly thanks to its storied history and cobblestone charm, but, for the 15th year, the waterfront neighborhood will transform into a winter wonderland during this annual fête. Snap pictures with Santa Claus after he arrives by tugboat, compete in the eggnog-drinking contest, and then cap off the night by witnessing the annual tree lighting in Broadway Square and the Lighted Boat Parade floating down the harbor.

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Mayor’s Christmas Parade
Dec. 2. Locations vary. 1 p.m. Free. Ring in the most wonderful time of the year with this 46th annual parade that leads a jolly assortment of local marching bands, giant balloons, festive floats, a fleet of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and, of course, Santa Claus and Miss Yuletide through the streets of Medfield and Hampden. Find a spot along the two-and-a-half-mile parade route—which begins at Poly Western High School, winds down Cold Spring Lane, and ends at 37th Street—to catch some candy, sip on hot cocoa, and give a wave to Mayor Catherine Pugh.

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Anastasia
Dec. 4-9. 12 N Eutaw St. Times vary. $99-225. Based on the 1997 Disney film of the same name, this dazzling musical travels back in time to the Russian Empire during the 1920s and follows the tale of an adventurous young woman searching for answers about her past. With direction by Tony Award-winner Darko Tresnjak and a rich new score, this wintertime classic will warm the hearts of Hippodrome Theatre audiences with songs such as “Once Upon a December” and “Journey to the Past.”

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The Importance of Being Earnest
Dec. 4-30. 315 W Fayette St. $25-65. This month, Everyman Theatre’s critically acclaimed resident company will bring to life Oscar Wilde’s uproarious comedy that’s been applauded by generations for its portrayal of Victorian marriage, morality, and mistaken identities. Head to the downtown theater to experience the many twists and turns of this fast-paced play that’s considered Wilde’s masterpiece.

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A Charlie Brown Christmas
Dec. 9. 140 W. Mt Royal Ave. Times vary. $25-55. We all know and love the Peanuts, and this winter, see Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the whole gang come alive on the Lyric stage during this all-new production of A Charlie Brown Christmas. Bring the entire family to this one-night-only musical and sing along to holiday carols and classic tunes by original composer Vince Guaraldi. $25-55, modell-lyric.com.

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The Stoop Ha-Ha-Holiday Show
Dec. 11. The Senator Theatre, 5904 York Rd. 7 p.m. $15-23. Whether it’s good, bad, or ugly, everyone has a memorable story about their holiday adventures (or misadventures). Pack the Senator Theatre for the Stoop Storytelling Series’ can’t-miss holiday show featuring cocktails, live music by Tongue and Cheek Jazz Band, and side-aching laughs as locals share their most unforgettable holiday tales.

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Baltimore Chanukah Festival
Dec. 12. McKeldin Square, Inner Harbor, 101 E. Pratt St. 2:30-5:30 p.m. Free. One of our city’s bragging points is that the Esther Anne Menorah, which stands in McKeldin Square during the holidays, is the second-largest menorah in the world. While the lighting of the 30-foot-tall menorah is the main event of this lively festival, head to the Inner Harbor early to hear live music, grabs eats and drinks from local vendors, and follow the dancing dreidels to the Chanukah Wonderland.

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Kwanzaa Celebration
Dec. 29. 830 E. Pratt St. 12-4 p.m. $5. Whether you’re a practiced celebrator or simply want to learn more about the week-long holiday, devote the third day of Kwanzaa to this all-out celebration at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Visit the downtown museum to take in traditional African dance and drumming performances, learn more about the holiday’s rich history during workshops and lectures, and browse locally made goods in the African Marketplace.

Five things to eat, drink, see, hear, and do with your Charm City weekend.

 EAT

Dec. 2: Olde Tyme Christmas

Fells Point, Broadway & Thames St. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Free.

Once December hits, Fells Point transforms into a charming Christmas town, adorned with green garlands, crimson bows, and tons of glimmering lights. This Saturday, walk through the cobblestoned streets of this historic neighborhood during Olde Tyme Christmas, a winter tradition now in its 14th year. Revel in holiday activities, like the beloved eggnog-drinking contest or annual tree lighting ceremony, and along the way, treat yourself to a tasting of the local restaurant offerings. At Abbey Burger, a breakfast buffet should get you through the day with all-you-can-eat mini pancakes and breakfast sliders. On weekends, Thames Street Oyster House offers one of the best Bloody Marys in town (and oyster shooters, too). And, of course, there’s the newly renovated Jimmy’s, with the old-school diner brought into the 21st century but our favorite waitresses and delicious brunch staples still around all day. By the evening, after mussels at Bertha’s and a beer-filled jaunt at Max’s, your stomach is sure be as full as Ol’ St. Nick’s. 

 DRINK

Dec. 2: Mozarts & Martinis

Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. 7-11 p.m. $30-99. 

The story behind Mozart’s final masterpiece can only be defined as mysterious. As legend has it, a stranger knocked on his door and asked him to write a requiem mass—the work that would come to consume the rest of the famed composer’s life. While he never did complete it, you can still hear a rendition of this masterwork by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and University of Maryland Concert Choir, led by maestra Marin Alsop. Following the concert be sure to swing by the Gothic-inspired after-party, featuring beer, wine, $6 martinis, and dumplings from Mt. Vernon Marketplace’s Pinch in the Meyerhoff lobby. We’ll never know if it was the angel of death who commissioned Mozart’s requiem, but we’ll gladly discuss conspiracy theories over classical-music-inspired cocktails. 

 SEE

Dec. 1-3: Night of 100 Elvises

Lord Baltimore Hotel, 20 W. Baltimore St. Fri. 7-11 p.m., Sat. 4 p.m.-1 a.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Prices vary.

Slick back your hair and hop in your flared jumpsuit for Charm City’s eclectic three-day tribute to the King of Rock and Roll. Whether you’re a fair-weather Elvis fan or a full-time Presley devotee, get your groove on at the new location of the Lord Baltimore Hotel, with live music by tribute bands, scores of impersonators, and local brews. While the music is the main event, don’t forget to admire the sights—classic cars, vintage rock-and-roll memorabilia, an ice carving of Mr. Presley himself, and, of course, the legend’s favorite snack—fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches.

 HEAR

Dec. 2: Saturday Morning Tunes

Senator Theatre, 5904 York Rd. 9-11:30 a.m. $10-40. 

Are your little ones tired of singing along to the same TV show theme songs or Kidz Bop soundtracks? This weekend, introduce them to the rising artists of the children’s music scene at Saturday Morning Tunes, WTMD’s local concert series tailored just for kids. Inside the historic Senator Theatre in Belvedere Square, your kiddos can listen to Lard Dog & The Band of Shy and The Rhode Tavern Troubadours as they perform their kid-friendly indie rock, or “kindie,” hits. But that’s not all—inflatable instruments, animal sketches, bicycle rides, videos on the big screen, and a holiday-themed photo booth will keep your tykes in a good mood for the rest of the day. Even if you can’t make it, you can stream the show live or turn your radio dial to 89.7 F.M. 

 DO

Dec. 1: Baltimore Square Dance

Ideal Arts Space, 905 W. 36th St. 7:30-11 p.m. $7-12. 

Since 2013, Baltimore Square Dance has been bringing together people of all ages for a memorable night of simple dance moves and do-si-do. On Friday, this Best of Baltimore-winning event will return to Ideal Arts Space in Hampden. Forget club music and twerking and spend your evening swinging around to old-time string music with regional folk artists like Sam Gleaves and Tyler Hughes. If you’re a square dance newbie, don’t worry—steps will be taught and called throughout the night. You don’t need to show up with a partner or cowboy hat, but feel free to B.Y.O.B., especially if you need some liquid courage to get your feet moving.

Five things to eat, drink, see, hear, and do with your Charm City weekend.

EAT

Dec. 4: Holistic Holiday Pop-Up Market

Mount Vernon Marketplace, 520 Park Ave. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free.

‘Tis the season for gaining weight, because as much as we try, with so many sweets and treats all around us, it’s really hard to eat healthy. (I mean, who’s going to pass up on hot toddys and peppermint mochas, not to mention sugar cookies and gingerbread houses and rib roasts . . . you get the point.) To curb those winter calories, swing by Mount Vernon Marketplace this Sunday for a refreshing switch-up with holistic holiday shopping and eating. Each stall will be featuring healthy specials and nearly 20 vendors will be in tow, toting feel-good gifts like Hex Ferments kombuchas, krauts, and kimchis; Pure Chocolate By Jinji handcrafted cocoa; and PlantBar juices and raw foods. Pick up some beautiful handspun bowls from Wild Yam Pottery, pluck a bouquet of Local Color Flowers, and stop in the new Juniper Apothecary shop for even more wellness wonders. Here’s to a healthy, happy holiday—and to warding off those sugarplum visions that keep dancing in your head.

DRINK

Dec. 3: Fells Point Olde Tyme Christmas

Fells Point, S. Broadway & Thames St. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Free.

This Saturday, the cobblestone streets of Fells Point will transform into a winter wonderland with the neighborhood’s Olde Tyme Christmas festival. Catch Santa come in by tugboat at 9 a.m. and then make your way to the adults-only annual Eggnog Contest from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Broadway Square. Now in its 13th year, contestants will stack up against one another to see who makes the best sweet boozy beverage. (If you’re toting kids, there will also be hot chocolate and hot cider available, too.) Throughout the day, eat, drink, and shop local, but make sure you stick around until 5 p.m., when the lighted boat parade makes its way past Broadway Pier.

SEE

Dec. 4: Mayor’s Christmas Parade

Starting at Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and Western High School, 4600 Falls Road. Ending at 37th St. 1 p.m. Free.

For the 44th year, make your way to Medfield and Hampden to watch the Mayor’s Christmas Parade. Along this holiday tradition’s 2.5 mile-route, join more than 25,000 people to see dozens of marching bands, dance troops, mummers, floats, giant balloons, and more than 100 Harley Davidson motorcycles, not to mention Miss and Jr. Miss Yuletide and Santa himself. From TK road, down The Avenue, to 37 th Street, admire the old street cars, catch some candy, and give one last wave to Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake.

HEAR

Dec. 3: Night of 100 Elvises

Lithuanian Hall, 851 Hollins St. 4-11 p.m. $60-90. 410-494-9558.

Everyone loves Elvis, and for some odd reason, everyone seems to love Elvis even more around the holidays. This weekend, get in the festive spirit and gather ’round Lithuanian Hall for a celebration of The King. For one full night, dozens of cover bands, tribute artists, and diehard fans will all come together to pay homage to the late, great Mr. Presley with a colorful night of rock and roll. Admire the hot rods, grab some pictures with the show girls, tip back some Heavy Seas beers, and indulge in Elvis’ favorite: peanut-butter-and-banana sandwiches.

DO

Dec. 2-4: XXChange

Fri., Area 405, 405 E. Oliver St. Sat.-Sun., Open Works, 1400 Greenmount Ave. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

If you aren’t already hip to them, the Baltimore Women’s Maker Collective is a group of badass creatives who celebrate the work of self-identifying women and non-binary artists, business owners, and craftspeople throughout the great Baltimore region. They host monthly meetings, panel discussions, and a variety of events like artwork showcases and workshops. Their latest project is XXChange, a multilayered exhibit of more than 30 regional artists, featuring jewelry, furniture, textiles, metalwork, and more. On Friday, catch the closing reception at Area 405 during Alloverstreet in Station North, followed by a weekend-long pop-up shop at the new Open Works makerspace in Greemount West. Browse items like beautiful ceramics by Christina Haines, herbal infusions by Wight Tea Co., hipster-chic pillows by Cedar & Cotton, and handcrafted candles by Knit, Soy & Metal, to name a few.

Graceland

December 5, 2015
Hollins Street

The walls in the upstairs Jungle Room are draped in velvet leopard print, matching the snug dresses on a few of the bouffant-sporting women hitting the dance floor as Rob Kilgore belts out a cover of “Lawdy Miss Clawdy,” one of the King of Rock and Roll’s early hits:

“Well lawdy, lawdy, lawdy
Miss Clawdy Girl,
you sure look good to me . . .”

There are all kinds of bands inside the packed Lithuanian Hall, covering nearly the entirety of Elvis Presley’s blues/country/rockabilly catalog on three floors. There are also enough Elvis impersonators—this is the 22nd annual Night of 100 Elvises, after all—to match every incarnation (Young Elvis, Comeback Elvis, U.S. Army Private Elvis, Bloated Elvis, etc.) of the singer several times over. Although, sometimes it’s difficult to tell the fans dressed up in homage to their idol apart from the professional tribute artists.

All through the night—which benefits Johns Hopkins Children’s Center—there are hula girls performing on the main theater stage, a nod to the icon’s Blue Hawaii period. Downstairs, near the Viva Las Vegas Lounge, the King’s Kitchen Menu features Elvis-inspired favorites, including, naturally, fried peanut-butter-and-banana sandwiches.

“I have older sisters; I was weaned on Elvis,” says Kilgore. “In fact, in 1972, I visited a girlfriend in Memphis and went to Graceland with her. Elvis was asleep—it was 2:30 in the afternoon—so we couldn’t go in the house. His uncle Vester gave us a tour of the grounds in Elvis’s Ford Bronco instead.”

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Ola Belle

December 2, 2015
Falls Road

Caleb Stine, dressed in work boots and a plaid shirt, puts down his guitar for a moment, picks up a fiddle, and begins tapping his toes. “I learned how to play this tune from a recording by a Kentucky fiddler named Art Stamper,” Stine tells the three-dozen bluegrass fans squeezed into The Ivy Bookshop for his informal performance and a reading by Tim Newby from his new book, Bluegrass in Baltimore: The Hard Drivin’ Sound and Its Legacy.

Newby recounts the story of legendary singer and banjo player Ola Belle Reed, the Ashe County, NC, transplant who helped introduce Southern mountain music, first to rural Maryland and then to Baltimore. Ola, brother Alex Campbell, and husband “Bud” Reed built a stage at their New River Ranch in Rising Sun that would eventually host Loretta Lynn, Bill Monroe, Hank Williams, the Carter Family, and Johnny Cash.

In fact, as Newby says, the term “bluegrass”—to distinguish the new, faster, more intricate musical genre from traditional country or simpler “hillbilly” music—is first found in print in 1957 on the liner notes to American Banjo: Three-Finger and Scruggs Style, recorded by Mike Seeger in Baltimore. “The music changed some when it moved to the city,” says Newby. “It’s great today to see the Charm City Folk & Bluegrass Festival, which keeps growing, and a new generation of musicians picking up on that legacy.”

“I knew Baltimore was the birthplace of painted screens and Formstone, I didn’t know it was the home of bluegrass,” laughs store co-owner Ed Berlin as he hands commemorative mugs to Newby and Stine. “I do know something, however, about the family-owned company, Homer Laughlin, over 100 years old, that makes these pottery cups: Their clay comes from the Ohio River area—same place that music comes from.”

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Points of Light

December 1, 2015
Riverside Drive

Driving past jersey barriers and heavy rail tracks, dozens of families—many including a member who spent his or her working life down here—eventually reach a warehouse terminal at the southeast end of Sparrows Point. The property is largely desolate now, and certainly it is compared to Bethlehem Steel’s glory days on “the Point.” But one tradition of the shuttered plant continues—the lighting of the “Star of Bethlehem.”

Handcrafted in 1978 by local steelworkers, the 1.5-ton star spans some 28 feet. It shone from atop the mill’s massive, 320-foot-high “L” blast furnace until the huge steel plant was demolished in January 2015, but was saved by the site’s new owners, Tradepoint Atlantic. Its placement high on a warehouse this evening is temporary until a permanent home is found, Tradepoint Atlantic CEO Michael Moore explains to the crowd, who are reminiscing over coffee and donuts before the countdown.

“I thought I’d come down and see a few friends,” says Virgil Hare, watching the lighting of the star, which is visible from the Key Bridge, with his friend and sister. “I started working for Bethlehem Steel after graduating from Dundalk High School in 1965—45 years—probably 55, if you count all the overtime,” he laughs.

Moore talks about the star, created when hope still remained for an already declining steel industry, symbolizing his company’s hopes for attracting new businesses to the 3,100-acre grounds.

Hare would like to see that, too, of course. He also acknowledges lingering frustration over the steel industry’s demise, in part, at least, from foreign competition. “I remember when that star was made,” Hare says. “From angled iron—‘Canada’—stamped right on it.”

Mayor’s Christmas Parade
Dec. 6. Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, 1400 W. Cold Spring Ln. 1 p.m. Free. For one wintry Sunday, join tens of thousands of Baltimoreans for the 42nd annual Mayor’s Christmas Parade. The 2.5-mile route meanders through Hampden, heading south on Falls Road before ending at 37th Street. Throw on a jacket and see Santa Claus, festive floats, marching units, local TV and radio personalities, over 100 Harley Davidsons, the Mummers of Philadelphia, and this year’s Miss and Junior Miss Yuletide.

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A Monumental Occasion
Dec. 3. Mt. Vernon Pl., 600 N. Charles St. 5-8 p.m. Free. 410-244-1030. At the beginning of the month, see the Washington Monument lit up in all its fresh, new glory at the 43rd annual lighting ceremony in Mt. Vernon. After its $5.5 million renovation was completed this summer, the 200-year-old marble landmark is spick-and-span, with a polished exterior, new interactive displays, and a freshly restored staircase for its 227-step climb. See for yourself at this long-running holiday tradition, with music, food, drink, and a fantastic fireworks show.

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Makayla Gilliam-Price
Dec. 3. MICA, Fred Lazarus IV Center, 131 W. North Ave. 7 p.m. Free. 410-669-9200. You might have heard this extremely eloquent 17-year-old speak at this year’s Artscape. Makayla Gilliam-Price took to the Lyric stage and spoke to an enraptured audience with dynamic wordplay and an impressively powerful voice as part of the annual arts festival’s Wired Up! event, which reunited the cast of The Wire to tell real stories of Baltimoreans who lived through this past spring’s uprising. When she finished, the packed house was the most excited it would be all night. It was clear that the youth leadership award she received just moments before was beyond well-deserved. The young activist and founder of local youth justice organization City Bloc has also been awarded the Princeton Prize in Race Relations and was an invited speaker at TEDxMidAtlantic this past September.

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The Night of 100 Elvises
Dec. 5. Lithuanian Hall, 851 Hollins St. 4 p.m.-12 a.m. $60-90. 410-494-9588. Elvis left the building last year, when this eclectic annual event ditched its longtime home of Lithuanian Hall for new digs in Hunt Valley. But now, The King is back, as the 22nd annual celebration returns to Hollins Market. Party like Presley with cover bands, tribute artists, hot rods, showgirls, a Vegas-themed lounge, and his personal favorites: fried peanut-butter-and-banana sandwiches and plenty of booze.

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Ciara
Dec. 4. Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. 8 p.m. $42-74. 410-837-7400. At the beginning of the month, the princess is here . . . “Ciara!” Made famous by her 2004 self-titled debut and smash-hits like “1, 2 Step” and “Goodies,” the Grammy-winning R&B artist is coming to Baltimore on the heels of her latest album, Jackie, performing live for the first time in six years. Head to the Hippodrome to see her rockin’ bod and hear her sultry new singles, including the breakup ballad “I Bet” and the super sexy “Dance Like We’re Making Love.”

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Straight No Chaser
Dec. 5. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. 8 p.m. $36.50-56.50. 410-783-8000. It’s easy to see how, in the era of Pitch Perfect and Glee, these 10 troubadours were made famous by a Christmas performance gone viral a few years back. The a cappella group performs playful versions of holiday favorites, mixing Top 40 with classic crooning, skilled harmonies, and witty wordplay in royal Rat Pack fashion. At the Meyerhoff, hear their humorous hits like “Who Spiked the Egg Nog?” and “Text Me Merry Christmas.”

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Matisse Prints and Drawings
Dec. 9-July 3, 2016. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. 410-573-1700. The BMA has created a Henri Matisse treasure trove, with more than 1,000 works culminating in the world’s largest collection of his art, which now includes some 20 additional drawings and prints from the artist’s twilight years. From December 9 to July 3, 2016, browse the expressive artworks as part of the museum’s “New Arrivals” series, fittingly on display where it all began—the galleries of the Cone Collection.

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Orioles FanFest
Dec. 12. Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $6-12. 888-848-BIRD. Baseball season might be over, but it’s once again time to don your orange and black and head to the makeshift Birdland that is Orioles FanFest. Earlier than usual this year, the Baltimore Convention Center will fill with thousands of fans, all filing in to meet current players and coaches, snag some autographs (don’t forget to bring your Buck gnome), and, hopefully, experience the highly anticipated Adam Jones pie-facing. Stick around for hilarious question-and-answer sessions, tours of the clubhouse, and to take home some memorabilia that will tide you over ’til spring.

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Harlem Globetrotters
Dec. 26. Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 1 & 6 pm. $18-118. 410-347-2020. For the past 90 years, ball has been life for the Harlem Globetrotters, as the world-famous team has dribbled and dunked its way around the planet in an unparalleled display of athletic swag and skill. The players return to Baltimore at the end of the month for a day of family-fun, perfect for getting out of the house after all the holiday hoopla.

“I’d say around 10 or 11 years old, a friend of mine introduced me to Elvis. He was a big Elvis fan. I’d go over to his house and just started listening to his records and thought, ‘This guy is gooood.’

Elvis had everything, man. He was cool. He had the sound, the moves, the looks. He was also just a good human being. He’d give you the shirt off his back. When he had money, he loved buying people things and giving people things. How can you hate someone like that?

You think, ‘I wish I could be like that!’ All you do is learn the songs, learn his moves, and you just have a great time. I would put on Elvis records and have a strobe light going when I was a kid. I’d be up there in my bedroom dancing, and my mother would scream at me all the time because I sounded like I was going to come through the ceiling.

I never thought I’d be doing this. I’ve only been doing it about eight or nine years. My idea, when I first started out, was I wanted to do a tribute to Elvis but without dressing up like Elvis, without the black hair and sideburns, without the jumpsuit and all that. It wasn’t drawing a crowd.

I got the attention of a friend of mine, and he asked me to open up for his band a couple times doing Elvis stuff, so I did. One day he wanted me to open up at this wedding reception and this time he said, ‘Jim, do me a favor. Do it as Elvis.’ I was like, ‘I’m not going to do it as Elvis. That’s not what I do.’ ‘No, no, no, do it as Elvis, just this one time.’

I went ahead and bought this cheap Elvis suit and glasses and all that stuff. When I walked in, the place went crazy. Cameras started going off and I’m thinking, ‘Oh! Pretty neat!’ And that was before I got to the microphone and—as they say—that’s all she wrote. I was hooked.

Thankfully, I have the vocal ability to do ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s Elvis. So, sometimes I’ll do a three-hour show. I usually like to come out in a ’50s outfit, and then, for the ’60s, I’ll come out in the Elvis leather outfit from the ’68 Comeback Special, and then, of course, the ’70s is the jumpsuit. That’s always people’s favorite. There’s something about that outfit that people love.

I do my very best to spread myself around to the fans. But sometimes I can sing close to 50 or 60 songs in a show and out of those 60 songs, you’d be surprised how many people will come up to me after the show and say, ‘You didn’t sing my song.’

During a show, I sing, I mingle with the crowd, I make the women feel that when I’m singing to them that they’re the only one in the world that matters. They eat it up. I’m married for the second time. At first she wasn’t sure how to handle it, because I’m singing to all these women, and some of these women are just goo-goo ga-ga all over me. Sometimes their hands go where they shouldn’t go. But when they do that, I do my very best not to offend them, and I kinda just ease out of the situation and go my merry way. But you can’t do this and not expect that.

Now there are some Elvis Tribute Artists that go too far. They’ll participate in a way that makes Elvis look like some sleazeball. I don’t do that, and I don’t respect those that do. That’s not who the man was. Don’t say, ‘I’m here to represent Elvis Presley.’ Do it in a respectful way.

Someone told me about Night of 100 Elvises, and I got in contact. It’s a big, crazy event. They have three floors of entertainment. You have the main stage. You have your live bands—and they can be rap artists—as long as they’re doing Elvis music. I think I’m going on now about seven years, out of the 18.

I’ve brought a lot of joy to people by doing this. I believe that Elvis today is just as popular as Santa Claus. I hardly ever call anyone for a gig. It’s mostly by word of mouth that people call me. Sometimes I’ll be riding to a gig dressed as Elvis and people will drive past me and give me the thumbs up. It really, really does make people happy.

One day I’ll be giving this up. You know, you have your moments. But then something will happen that will give you that spark back. But the main thing is to try to stay as trim as I can and not lose any more hair—because I refuse to be the bald Elvis!”