A wave of fuchsia, crimson, velvet, and latex spill out of the door of Metro Gallery on the Friday night of February 14. Inside, the air thrums with music as a joyful crowd decked to the nines dances, embraces, and collectively belts out the chorus of “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga.

The occasion? The hottest spot to be on this most romantic of all evenings: Sweet Spot’s “Stupid Love,” a self-proclaimed “gay anti-Valentine’s dance party.”

“There was a time when we knew everyone on the Sweet Spot dancefloor—that’s not the case anymore,” says local creative Andre Cawley, who co-founded Sweet Spot in 2021 with his husband and creative partner, Chris Uhl. “People find out about Sweet Spot through word of mouth, flyers, and even platforms like Grindr and Reddit.”

Since its inception, Sweet Spot has become a vital and vibrant hub for the Baltimore and Mid-Atlantic queer community, hosting high-energy dance parties that prioritize inclusivity through accessible ticket prices at venues like Metro Gallery, Ottobar, and Soundstage.

Inspired by New York City’s LGBTQ+ party scene and events like Ty Sunderland’s “Heaven on Earth”—a monthly everyone-is-welcome all-nighter featuring DJs, drag, and dancing—the couple envisioned a space for free expression and connection through dance.

The COVID-19 pandemic fueled this desire for connection even further, and when restrictions were lifted, Sweet Spot was born—named after a song by trans popstar Kim Petras—with Cawley overseeing graphic design and Uhl serving as resident DJ, blending pop hits with club classics, R&B remixes, and techno beats.

And they have arrived at the perfect time. Baltimore has a rich history of queer-friendly spaces. But over the last decade, stalwarts like Club Hippo and The Gallery have closed, leaving behind a deep void, as traditional gay bars have played a crucial role in fostering community and providing safe havens throughout the last half-century. In fact, Sweet Spot’s founders met at Grand Central, once a beloved Mount Vernon nightclub that closed after three decades in 2020.

But as their own events show, the queer community has adapted to this shifting landscape through a roving scene of DIY music and DJ collectives. While permanent spaces come and go, these dancefloors fill the void as essential spaces of refuge—as they long have for marginalized communities.

“Chris was going out before he was ‘out,’ and those spaces gave him the freedom to socialize and find community—and a husband!—and dance, free from judgment,” says Cawley. “That was really important then and still is today.”

Cawley and Uhl note that while some LGBTQ+ bars do remain, including newer additions like The Club Car and Melanie’s at Griffith’s Tavern, there are a growing number of other spaces—like 1722, The Royal Blue, and Current Space—that have opened their doors to queer events.

In the city today, “There are so many queer collectives, producers, performers, and DJs working to make fresh, original, and exciting events and nights out all year long in Baltimore,” says Uhl, citing collectives like Version, Tech_METROPOLITAN, GRL PWR, and The Queers Upstairs, which each play a vital role in keeping the scene going. Along the way, Sweet Spot has also featured a wide array of artists and performers, including local rapper Dapper Dan Midas and drag performer Baby’s Not Alright.

Of course, creating DIY queer spaces outside of traditional bar settings presents unique challenges. Cawley and Uhl emphasize all the time and money that goes into booking talent and venues, not to mention promotion and setup. Yet the rewards are significant.

“Sweet Spot is a community that came together organically—we built this from nothing,” says Cawley, who’s particularly proud of the creative freedom of their events, from that anti-Valentine’s fete to their costumed Gay Halloween celebrations to New Year’s Eve parties with free Champagne toasts under a cascade of silver confetti.

Last Friday, June 6, they co-produced the massive “Full Bloom” dance party at World Pride in Washington, D.C., a testament to their increasing influence and reach. And this Friday, June 13, they’re bringing the party home, with a kickoff to the 50th anniversary of Baltimore Pride at Metro, headlined by Maryland native Miss Toto, with guest performances by DJ AAVE and Kayden Chloe.

A portion of proceeds will be donated to Baltimore Safe Haven, a local nonprofit providing a supportive community and essential resources for trans and queer individuals. There is currently a waitlist for the sold-out event.

As the city commemorates a half-century of Pride this month, the Sweet Spot duo is excited about what’s to come, but they also emphasize the ongoing need for activism and awareness, as anti-LGBTQ+ animus is once again on the rise. These collectives are vital in carrying the torch of community building for the next generations.

In the face of adversity, celebration is an act of radical resistance, and the popularity of collectives like Sweet Spot demonstrate the enduring importance of these spaces—for showcasing Pride year-round.

“The fight continues, but there is so much joy on the dance floor,” says Uhl. “Pride is an opportunity to honor our history, our community, and our creativity. A city without queer spaces and events would be a city without joy.”

6/8-15: BALTIMORE PRIDE FESTIVAL
Fifty years ago this month, and five years after the inaugural march in New York City following the Stonewall Riots, Pride was born in Baltimore with a small peaceful protest in 1975, against the backdrop of the Washington Monument in historic Mount Vernon. In these early years, such gatherings were declarations of existence in the face of violence and discrimination, and ultimately helped galvanize the movement for gay rights, acting as a rallying cry for queer liberation across the globe. And here, in the years since, this annual event has evolved into a nearly citywide celebration, drawing more than 100,000 attendees.

Back and bigger than ever, the city’s annual Pride Festival returns on June 8 through 15 for a colorful celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. After a week of happy hours, dance parties, open mics, and more, kick off the weekend with the Twilight on the Terrace fundraising gala at Gertrude’s Chesapeake Kitchen to benefit the Pride Center of Maryland. On Saturday, run the High Heeled Race in the morning, attend the Pride Parade starting at noon at North Avenue and Charles Street, and end the festivities with a Block Party at Wyman Park Dell. This year’s theme is “50 Shades of Pride,” in tribute to the tradition’s local history. Times, locations, and prices vary. 

6/3: PRIDE PROM [Editor’s Pick]
Festivals. Celebrate LGBTQIA+ pride with music by GRL PWR, light bites and snacks, and rainbow trophies for cutest couple, sharpest dresser, and more. Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St. 5-8 p.m. Free. 

6/3-8: CHICAGO THE MUSICAL
Theater. Taking place during Chicago’s Jazz Age, this play tells the tale of two Cook County Jail murderesses competing for media attention in a feisty rivalry. Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St. Times vary. $58-230+. 

6/4: KRISTINA GADDY: A MOST PERILOUS WORLD
Lectures & Classes. This local author discusses her new book about four teenage children of prominent abolitionists before and during the Civil War. Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St. 1 p.m. Free.

6/5: WTMD’S FIRST THURSDAY FESTIVAL [Editor’s Pick]
Music. WTMD’s beloved outdoor music festival returns with a free concert on the the first Thursday of every month through summer, featuring Craig Finn, Brandi & The Alexanders, and Rex Pax in June. Canton Waterfront Park, 3001 Boston St. 5:30 p.m. Free. 

6/5: MCKAY JENKINS 
Lectures & Classes. This local author speaks with fellow writer Lia Purpura about his new guide, The Maryland Master Naturalist’s Handbook, detailing the connection between the state’s flora, fauna, and human communities. The Ivy Bookshop, 5928 Falls Rd. 6-7:30 p.m. Free. 

6/5: SCHOOL PARTNER SHOWCASE CLOSING RECEPTION
Exhibitions. Celebrate student creativity with the closing of “Baltimore, Imagined: Artists from the Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women” in the Sculpture Court. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. 5-7 p.m. Free. 

6/6: IN A MOOD [Editor’s Pick]
Fundraisers & Galas. In this new summer fundraising party, enjoy a vibe-y evening surrounded by new exhibitions with food, drink, dancing, and aura photography. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. 7-10 p.m. $85.

6/6: LEAVE NO TRACE: AROUND THE CAMPFIRE
Music. To close out this exhibition on John Work Garrett and the American outdoors, enjoy an evening of music by Teresa Ferrara, plus storytelling, learning stations, and s’mores. Evergreen Museum & Library, 4545 N. Charles St. 7-9 p.m. $7-10.

6/6: WU-TANG FOREVER
Music. Downtown Baltimore is is the first stop on the final tour of this iconic hip-hop group. CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 7 p.m. $75-450. 

6/6/-8: SOUR FEST
Food & Drink. At this beloved Fells Point beer mecca, sip on dozens of sour drafts that are hard to find anywhere else. Max’s Taphouse, 737 S. Broadway St. 11:30 a.m. Free. 

6/7: BALTIMORE 10 MILER
Sports. Run a 10-mile course through local neighborhoods to cold towels, fresh watermelon, craft beer, and live music at the finish line. Druid Hill Park, 900 Druid Park Lake Dr. 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $80. 

6/7: RAINBOW RUN [Editor’s Pick]
Sports. Come dressed in your most colorful garb to celebrate Pride Month through this two mile run around Patterson Park with a kid zone and beer garden at the finish line. Patterson Park, 2601 E. Baltimore St. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5-40. 

6/7: HAMPDEN HIGHLIGHTS FESTIVAL
Festivals. During this new street festival in Hampden, The Avenue will be lined with vendors offering up food, drink, art, games, and more, all in support of local nonprofits. W. 36th St. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. 

6/7: INDIE GAME FEST
Exhibitions. Explore, demo, and play games from local grassroots community game developers during this annual celebration. Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 

6/7: MORTIFIED: PRIDE EDITION
Theater. Members of the community share their personal stories about exploring sexual and gender identity, coming out, and other LGBTQ+ experiences. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 7 p.m. $19-35. 

6/7: MUSIC IN THE WOODS
Music. See musicians perform live surrounded by the sprawling natural beauty of this Baltimore County park. Oregon Ridge Nature Center, 13555 Beaver Dam Rd. 2-7 p.m. Free.

6/7: CREEK + GHOSTLIKE + PAPER LANTERNS + MUHNDAY
Music. A night of live music featuring Creek, Ghostlike, Paper Lanterns, and Muhnday. Le Mondo, 406 N. Howard St. 7:30-11 p.m. $15.38. 

6/7-8: HISTORIC RESERVOIR HILL GARDEN & HOME TOUR
Lectures & Classes. This self-guided walking tour gives you a peek inside some of the most beautiful homes and cultivated backyard gardens in the city with food trucks along the way. Linden Ave. & Ducatel St. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $23.18. 

6/7-7/5: THE SPEED OF FASHION
Exhibitions. Artwork and workshops of all mediums that touch on the fast fashion and environmental justice in the fashion industry. Crow’s Nest, 116 W. Mulberry St.  Sat. 1-5 p.m. 

6/7-8: MARYLAND BY AIR
Film. Narrated by Cal Ripken, Jr., this IMAX screening takes viewers on an aerial tour of Maryland filled with iconic landmarks like Antietam Battlefield, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and more. Maryland Science Center, 601 Light St. 11:30 a.m. $5-$34.95. 

6/7-10/4: BALTIMORE BY BALTIMORE [Editor’s Pick]
Festivals. Every first Saturday through October, local artists light up the Inner Harbor with live music, food, vendors, and more. Harborplace Amphitheater, 200 E. Pratt St. Sat. 12-8 p.m. Free. 

TO 6/8: GOSPEL WITH AUDACITY
Theater. Aaron Androh and Donald Owens present a comedy gospel show complete with laughs and an angelic soundtrack. Arena Players, 801 McCulloh St. Times & prices vary. 

6/8: SEED SCHOOL OF MD’S RUN-UP-TO-JUNETEENTH 
Fundraisers & Galas. This 5K run and one-mile walk celebrates Black history and promotes all things health, wellness, and education to benefit The SEED School of Maryland’s College Transition & Success Program. West Covington Park, 101 W. Cromwell St. 8:30 a.m. $15-45. 

6/8: BALTIMORE VINTAGE EXPO [Editor’s Pick]
Festivals. For one day only, vintage and antique collectors and curators come together to sell authentic pieces featuring everything from jewelry to furniture. Union Collective, 1700 W. 41st St. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$20. 

6/8: THE QUEENS OF BROADWAY DRAG BRUNCH
Festivals. Fill up on brunch favorites from The Classic Catering People as Sunrize with a Z hosts a spectacular Broadway-themed drag show featuring Stealya Manz and Venus Fastrada. Everyman Theatre, 315 W. Fayette St. 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $65-85.

6/8: LITTLE HANDS
Family. Little ones can join a local author to learn basic American Sign Language vocabulary through songs and storytelling. Port Discovery Children’s Museum, 35 Market Pl. 12-1 p.m. Free-$24.95. 

6/8: JPEGMAFIA
Music. This once-Baltimore-based rapper and singer takes the stage after releasing his fifth album, “I Lay Down My Life for You.” Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 7 p.m. $42.50. 

6/8-15: BALTIMORE PRIDE [Editor’s Pick]
Festivals. In honor of 50 years of Baltimore’s Pride Festival, this year’s “50 Shades of Pride” features a parade, party, and other colorful events like the annual High Heel Race to celebrate diversity, love, and the LGBTQ community. Locations, times & prices vary. 

6/11: REVEREND HORTON HEAT
Music. This psychobilly trio puts on a show with Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 7 p.m. $38.70. 

6/12: THE BRIDGE “ALL GOOD NOW” PRE-PARTY
Music. To kick off the All Good Now music festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion, beloved Baltimore jam band The Bridge returns to the stage in Federal Hill. The 8×10, 10 E. Cross St. 7 p.m. $49.44. 

6/12-15: B’MORE GREEK
Festivals. Say “opa!” for four days of non-stop Greek culture including authentic Greek cuisine, traditional dance performances, homemade desserts, and more. Greektown Square, 701 Ponca St. Thurs. 5-10 p.m., Fri.-Sun. 12-10 p.m. Free. 

6/12-15 & 6/18-22: SALTY [Editor’s Pick]
Theater. This AJ Clauss play explores how people and penguins adapt to survival in one of the last remaining conservation zoos after climate change has wreaked havoc on the environment. The Voxel, 9 W. 25th St. Wed.-Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $25-100.

6/13: VERDI’S AIDA CONDUCTED BY HEYWARD
Music. BSO maestro Jonathan Heyward leads this concert adaptation of Verdi’s “Aida,” an opera about love and loyalty set in Ancient Egypt. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. 8 p.m. $27-73. 

6/13-29: THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW: PRIDE 2025
Theater. Audience members join in on this classic production following sweethearts Brad and Janet as they discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter and all of the wild characters inside. Iron Crow Theatre, 45 W. Preston St. Times vary. $30-75.

6/13-7/6: CLYDE’S
Theater. This play follows the story of a truck-stop sandwich shop’s formerly incarcerated kitchen staff and their shot at redemption. Spotlighters Theatre, 817 St. Paul St. Times vary. $24.

6/13-7/19: OPEN NARRATIVES [Editor’s Pick]
Exhibitions. View the artwork of Schroeder Cherry, a beloved local artist and educator who captured everyday African-American experiences through work with puppets, paintings, and mixed media. Waller Gallery, 2420 N. Calvert St. Sat. 1-5 p.m. by appt. Free. 

6/13-7/20: JULIUS CAESAR
Theater. See director Marcus Kyd’s take on Shakespeare’s classic political thriller. Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park, 3655 Church Rd., Ellicott City. Times vary. $25-68. 

6/14: BALTIMORE FLOATILLA [Editor’s Pick]
Sports. Hundreds of kayakers, rowers, and stand-up paddlers will complete a five-mile course around Inner Harbor waters, followed by an after party. Canton Waterfront Park, 3001 Boston St. 7:30 a.m. $40-165. 

6/14. AFFORDABLE FINE ART MARKET SPRING CLEANING
Exhibitions. A unique art market where creators clean out their studios and sell their older work for $250 or less. Peabody Heights Brewery, 401 E. 30th St. 12-5 p.m. Free. 

6/14. LESLIE GRAY STREETER: FAMILY AND OTHER CALAMITIES
Lectures & Classes. This local author and Banner columnist discusses her newest book about a journalist who returns to Baltimore to deal with grief, betrayal, and scandal. Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St. 3-4 p.m. Free.   

6/14: SUPER CITY 
Music. This high-energy, hard-dancing Baltimore supergroup is re-releasing their first EP on vinyl with a celebratory show in Highlandtown with special guests. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 7:30 p.m. $19-30.

6/14: STAGES PRESENTS: BLACK ROOT & JPOPE
Music. Baltimore hip-hop artists JPope and Black Root premier their latest collaboration, “The Grey Lines Project.” Stages Music Arts, 10 Stenerson Ln., Cockeysville. 6 p.m. $12.50-28.52. 

6/14: TRANS PRIDE
Festivals. Celebrate Transgender Pride and support community diversity with a day of festivities and resources. Location & time varies. Free

6/14 & 28: BIRDING TOUR OF DRUID HILL PARK
Outdoors. Audubon Society and Baltimore Bird Club experts will lead participants in search of the 189 native bird species of Druid Hill Park. Druid Hill Park, 3001 East Dr. 8-9:30 a.m. Free. 

TO 6/15: BROWN SUGAR BAKE-OFF
Theater. Watch eight original 10-minute plays by Black women and nonbinary playwrights, centered around this year’s mental health theme. Strand Theater, 5426 Harford Rd. Times vary. $12-20. 

TO 6/15: JOHN WILKES BOOTH: ONE NIGHT ONLY!
Theater. This performance takes a closer look at Maryland native and presidential assassin who is buried in an unmarked grave less than a mile from the theater. Baltimore Center Stage, 700 N. Calvert St. Times vary. $10-54.

 6/15: GBMC FATHER’S DAY 5K AND 1 MILE FUN WALK 
Fundraisers & Galas. Celebrate Father’s Day by supporting GBMC’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. GBMC South Chapman Building, 6545 N. Charles St. 8-10 a.m. $35.

6/15: THE KILLS
Music. Jam out to this 200s rock duo and songs off their new album “God Games & Happier Girls.” Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 7 p.m. $42.50. 

6/15: JOSH JOHNSON
Comedy. This comedian and social media personality hits the stage for one of his hilarious stand-up sets. Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St. 7 p.m. $61-72. baltimore.broadway.com. 

6/15: IN GRATITUDE: A TRIBUTE TO EARTH, WIND & FIRE
Music. Enjoy live music from this acclaimed 14-piece tribute band to Earth, Wind & Fire in a performance packed with prizes for Father’s Day. Gordon Center for Performing Arts, 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave., Owings Mills. 7:30 p.m. $38-48.

6/17: LIL BABY
Music. This rap sensation performs on his Wham World Tour with guests BigXThaPlug, NLE Choppa, and Loe Shimmy. CFG Bank Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 6 p.m. $64-286+. 

6/18: SERVING UP WISDOM: DRAG BINGO BRUNCH
Food & Drink. Evon Dior Michelle hosts bingo and trivia while participants enjoy brunch and mocktails. Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St. 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. 

6/19: RHYTHM LIBERATION FESTIVAL & BLK ASS FLEA MKT
Festivals. Hear live music performances, see art making, and shop Black-owned businesses during this community-driven market and celebration. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hwy. 3-9 p.m. Free-$15.

6/20: JUNETEENTH JAMBOREE
Festivals. City Weeds and Brown Girl Wellness present an afternoon of delicious food and live music before setting sail on a luxurious yacht cruise in celebration of Black history. Port Covington Marina Pavilion, 231 E. Cromwell St. 1-5 p.m. $135.23.  

6/20: FLATLAND CAVALRY & IAN MUSICK
Music. Country artists Flatland Cavalry perform outside along the Inner Harbor with the seasonal return of Pier Six. Pier Six Pavilion, 731 Eastern Ave. 7:30 p.m. $47-181+. 

TO 6/21: CLIMAS MALSANOS
Exhibitions. A collection of pieces from Baltimore-based queer Latinx artist Hoesy Corona’s “Climate Immigrants” series that explores the relationship between humans and the environment. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. Tues.-Sat. 12-5 p.m. Free. 

TO 6/21: PREAKNESS EXHIBITION
Exhibitions. As part of Preakness’ 150th anniversary, this event will showcase artwork that highlights all aspects of horse culture in Maryland. Maryland Art Place, 218 W. Saratoga St. Tues.-Sat. 12-4 p.m. Free. 

6/21: AFROFUTRO: A JOURNEY TO THE GOLDEN CLOUD NEBULA
Music. In honor of Juneteenth, Afro House’s Astronaut Symphony performs using voice, sound design, and live instruments. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. 2-3 p.m. Free. 

6/21: 48TH ANNUAL SOLSTICE GALA
Fundraisers & Galas. Enjoy an evening of science demonstrations, live music, and multiple open bars and food stations to fund local field trips and outreach programs. Maryland Science Center, 601 Light St. 8 p.m. $95.

6/21: JOHN DOYLE AND MIKE MCGOLDRICK
Music. Hear traditional Irish folk music from two of the genre’s powerhouse talents, John Doyle and Mike McGoldrick. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 7:30 p.m. $46. 

6/21-22: AFRAM [Editor’s Pick]
Music. Celebrate African-American culture with children’s activities, a variety of vendors, and entertainers like Patti Labelle, Saweetie, and more. Druid Hill Park, 2698 Madison Ave.  Times vary. Free.

TO 6/22: THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP
Theater. This comedy follows two actors playing over eight roles each with more than 30 costume changes. Everyman Theatre, 315 W. Fayette St. Times vary. $5-86. 

TO 6/22: PICASSO AT THE LAPIN AGILE
Theater. This hilarious show was written by comedy icon Steve Martin, placing Albert Einstein and Pablo Picasso in a Parisian cafe in 1904. Vagabond Players, 806 S. Broadway St. Fri-Sat. 8 p.m. Sun. 2 p.m. $21

6/22: MUMFORD & SONS
Music. This beloved British folk-rock band performs outside in Columbia. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 7:30 p.m. $46-170.50. 

6/25: KATE MYERS
Lectures & Classes. This rising Annapolis author presents her new summer read, “Salty,” that follows two estranged sisters in a coastal murder mystery. The Ivy Bookshop, 5928 Falls Rd. 6-7:30 p.m. Free. 

TO 6/25: PECHA KUCHA
Theater. Local creatives take the stage to tell their personal tales with rotating slides that flip by every 20 seconds for a night of visual storytelling. Current Space Garden Bar, 421 Tyson St. 7 p.m. Free. 

6/26: SONDHEIM 2025 ART PRIZE FINALISTS: AWARD CEREMONY [Editor’s Pick]
Exhibitions. The winner will be announced for the Janet & Walter Sondheim Art Prize that provides a $30,000 fellowship to a local visual artist. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. 6-7:30 p.m. Free. 

6/26: ELIZABETH DICKINSON [Editor’s Pick]
Lectures & Classes. Join this award-winning journalist in conversation with local tastemaker Lane Harlan about Dickinson’s newest book, “Claire McCardell: The Designer Who Set Women Free.” Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St. 7-8 p.m. Free. 

6/27: CLAIRE MCCARDELL: THE DESIGNER WHO SET WOMEN FREE BOOK LAUNCH
Lectures & Classes. Local author Elizabeth Evitts Dickinson launches her new biography on the life of legendary fashion designer Claire McCardell, whose works are on display within the museum. Maryland Center for History and Culture, 610 Park Ave. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $35. 

6/27: ‘COME INSIDE’ OPEN HOUSE
Lectures & Classes. Stroll through the 18th-century Manor House that once belonged to Harvey Ladew, with informative QR codes in each room. Ladew Gardens, 3535 Jarrettsville Pke., Monkton. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free-$20.

6/27: BETTER OFF DEAD
Music. This celebrated Grateful Dead cover band performs the jam band’s greatest hits in Federal Hill. The 8×10. 10 E. Cross St. 7 p.m. $24.72.   

6/28: PLAY(FUL) BALL
Fundraisers & Galas. In honor of the “Good Sports” exhibition, this annual fete celebrates Olympic medalist Dr. John Carlos as the recipient of the Lifetime Grand Visionary Award with a cocktail hour, dinner, awards ceremony, and after party. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. 5:30 p.m.-12 a.m. $50-750. 

6/28: CHARM CITY JAZZ
Music. Vocalist Shang and saxophonist Eddie Baccus, Jr., perform the music of Phyllis Hyman and Grover Washington Jr. with a 10-piece band. Gordon Center for Performing Arts, 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave., Owings Mills. 7 p.m. $46-55. 

TO 6/29: TOXIC OVERBURDEN
Exhibitions. This youth-designed collection aims to shed light on Curtis Bay, a South Baltimore community that has faced over 100 years of environmental harm due to the dumping of toxic industrial waste. The Peale, 225 Holliday St. Thurs.-Fri. 3-7 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 

TO 6/30: SPRING ILLUMINATIONS [Editor’s Pick]
Family. Visit the zoo after dark and stroll through dazzling nature-themed lanterns, with Asian-inspired snacks and drinks available for purchase. The Maryland Zoo, 1 Safari Pl. Mon.-Sun. 6-10 p.m. $20-28. Free. 

6/30: CAROL MOSELEY BRAUN
Lectures & Classes. AFRO CEO Frances Murphy Draper speaks with Carol Moseley Braun, the first Black female senator, about her new memoir, “Trailblazer.” Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St. 7-8 p.m. Free. 

TO 7/12: EMERGENCE: STORIES IN THE MAKING
Exhibitions. Explore this collection of artworks from emerging artists who explore storytelling within their artistic practices to reflect solidarity, heritage, and social change. Galerie Myrtis, 2224 N. Charles St. Thurs.-Sat. 2-6 p.m. Free.

TO 7/20: THE JANET & WALTER SONDHEIM ART PRIZE FINALISTS EXHIBITION
Exhibitions. Artworks from five finalists from this prestigious annual competition will be on view. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thurs. 1-8 p.m. Free. 

TO 7/27: WATERSHED 
Exhibitions. A curated selection of 40 works from the BMA’s collection explores water and landscape and how they impacted the early modern Dutch Republic. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr., Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m-9 p.m. Free. 

TO 7/27: BAKER ARTIST AWARDS
Exhibitions. View the work of five Baker award winners—Selin Balci, Oletha DeVane, Jordan Tierney, Stephen Towns, and Kelley Bell—all showcasing work rooted in a deep connection to Baltimore’s identity. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free. 

TO 8/5: IF BOOKS COULD KILL
Exhibitions. Discover the dangerous materials and techniques used to illustrate ancient manuscripts within the Walters’ vast collection. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 1-8 p.m. Free. 

TO 8/17: EARTH AS MEDIUM: EXTRACTING ART FROM NATURE
Exhibitions. This exhibition’s artworks all have a connection to nature, whether they were made out of natural elements or with sustainable practices. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free. 

TO 8/17: COLAB: ART AND MUSIC FROM BALTIMORE AND BEYOND
Exhibitions. View a collection of works on loan from important collections of African-American art and artists that will be paired with musical compositions selected by the Peabody Institute. Eubie Blake Cultural Center, 847 N. Howard St. Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. 

TO 8/31: GOOD SPORTS
Exhibitions. In this new “mega” exhibit, get to the heart of our universal enjoyment of play and celebrate wellness of mind, body, and spirit through works from both local and global visionary artists. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 

TO 8/31: HISTORY THROUGH POETRY
Exhibitions. New original poems inspired by the Homewood Museum’s period rooms and the lives of the enslaved people who once lived and worked there. Homewood Museum, 3400 N. Charles St. Tues.-Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 

TO 9/1: iWITNESS
Exhibitions. Through artifacts, photographs, and history, this exhibit explores how media impacted the modern American Civil Rights Movement. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. Mon., Thurs.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 12-5 p.m. Free-$12. 

TO 9/8: NEW PERSPECTIVES OF HISTORIC EVERGREEN
Exhibitions. See the work of three Baltimore School for the Arts seniors who explored the museum through the lens of traditional 4×5 land cameras. Evergreen Museum & Library, 4545 N. Charles St. Available via guided tour. Free-$12. 

TO 9/21: BLACK EARTH RISING
Exhibitions. This showcase contains paintings, sculptures, films, and other creative works by artists of color and Native identity that explore our complex connection to nature. Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. $5-10. 

TO 9/29: HIGH SCHOOL JURIED ART SHOW: LABOR, LEADERSHIP, AND LEGACY
Exhibitions. This collection honors the legacies of local leaders and entrepreneurs by student artists from all 25 school districts across the state. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. Mon. & Thurs.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 12-5 p.m. Free-$12. 

TO 10/10: LINDA DAY CLARK
Exhibitions. View the work of Baltimore-born photographer Linda Day Clark, known for artfully capturing the everyday life of African Americans. Morgan State University, James E. Lewis Museum of Art, 2201 Argonne Dr. Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 

TO 10/15: PROXIMA ARCANUM
Festivals. Every other month, stop by for a queer witchy reading series and esoteric market with vendors and activities like tarot reading. Current Space Garden Bar, 421 Tyson St. 7 p.m. Free.

Visual Art

The Janet & Walter Sondheim Artscape Prize Finalists Exhibition
Don’t miss your chance to catch some of the art world’s brightest rising stars at this exhibition celebrating the seven finalists for the prestigious Janet & Walter Sondheim Artscape Prize. The winner of the $25,000 fellowship will be named in July, but works by Negar Ahkami, Akea Brionne Brown, Cheeny Celebrado-Royer, Schroeder Cherry, Phylicia Ghee, Jackie Milad, and Stephanie Williams will stay on display through August 11. June 15-Aug. 11. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St.

RAW Baltimore Presents: Impact
This gathering of independent artists will bring beauty, fashion, music, digital art, and more to Baltimore Soundstage. Whether you’re looking to pick up something to hang on the wall or be inspired by creative new takes on genderqueer fashion and vegan beauty, there’s something to be found for everyone at this showcase of local talent. 7 p.m. June 28. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl.

Music

Outer Spaces Record Release
Grab some friends and head to Current Space’s backyard for this outdoor show celebrating the release of dreamy indie-pop act Outer Spaces’ new record, Gazing Globe, featuring guests Smoke Bellow, Cigarette, and Wheatie Mattiasich with Steve Santilla. The sticky summer evening will fit perfectly with Cara Beth Stalino’s exploration of what it means to lose someone but find yourself all over again. 7-11 p.m. June 29. Current Space, 421 N. Howard St.

Theater

Mortified: PRIDE Edition
Some of us dread those childhood journal entries and notebooks full of poems coming back to haunt us. Mortified embraces them. This Pride-themed version of the Creative Alliance storytelling series will feature adolescent artifacts exploring sexual and gender identity, coming out, and other experiences from the LGBTQ+ community. 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. June 15. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave.

A Midsummer Night’s Bash
Say a fitting farewell to Single Carrot Theatre’s Remington home with full night of Shakespearean shenanigans. Start the evening with the troupe’s raucous performance of Drunk Shakespeare [and other dead white guys], then stick around for bites, drinks, dancing, and more at the Howard Street theater. 7 p.m. June 22. Single Carrot Theatre, 2600 N. Howard St.

Literature

D. Watkins in Conversation with Lisa Snowden-McCray
Five years ago, D. Watkins found a national audience with his viral essay “Too Poor for Pop Culture.” Now a professor, Editor at Large for Salon, and founder of the BMORE Writers Project, Watkins has become an essential voice. In honor of the fifth anniversary of his first print publication, Watkins joins Baltimore Beat editor Lisa Snowden-McCray for a conversation about how things have and haven’t changed since that first essay and what his latest book, We Speak for Ourselves, can add to the story. 7 p.m. June 26. Red Emma’s, 1225 Cathedral St.

Barbara Bourland—Fake Like Me
Humor, mystery, and sharp observation abound in Barbara Bourland’s follow-up to 2017’s I’ll Eat When I’m Dead, Fake Like Me, in which she moves the focus from a Manhattan magazine to the dueling egos of the contemporary art world. Settle into Greedy Reads’ cozy Fells Point home for a conversation with Bourland and BMore Art’s Cara Ober to celebrate the new release. 7:30 June 21. Greedy Reads, 1744 Aliceanna St.

Film

First Look: Dark City: Beneath the Beat
This celebration of community and Baltimore Club comes from one of the genre’s greatest voices, TT The Artist. Head to the SNF Parkway and follow the red carpet in for a first look at Dark City: Beneath The Beat, TT’s documentary following some of the city’s best local musicians, DJs, poets, dancers, and producers as they build and perpetuate a close-knit creative community that rises above Baltimore’s less-than-sterling reputation. 6:30 p.m. Red Carpet Pre-show, 7:15 p.m. Film Presentation, 8:30 p.m. Director Interview and Q&A, June 26. SNF Parkway Theatre, 3 W. North Ave.