News

Theater Renovations on the Horizon for Arena Players

On Dec. 4, the Maryland Board of Public Works approved a $300,000 grant for improvements to the Arena Players theater—the oldest continuously operating African-American theater in the country. Designated for “the acquisition, planning, design, construction, repair, renovation, reconstruction, site improvement, and capital equipping of Arena Players theatre,” the funds will go toward infrastructural updates to the beloved local cultural space.

Hamilton Returns to the Hippodrome

There’s good news for those that missed their shot to see Hamilton during its first visit to Baltimore this fall. The Hippodrome announced this week that the hit musical will return in summer 2021, taking the Eutaw Street stage from June 8-July 3.

Visual Art

Necessity of Tomorrow(s): Future Histories

Filling in the blanks in the stories of our past can help us create a better informed future. Nikole Hannah-Jones, creator of The New York Times’ “The 1619 Project,” will explore this idea alongside activist and art collector Pamela J. Joyner and Baltimore artist Zoë Charlton at this latest installment of the BMA’s groundbreaking conversation series. 6-10 p.m. Dec. 17. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr.

Current Space’s 7th Annual Art Market

The holidays are creeping up quick, but this annual market featuring dozens of local artists and crafters can help you find the perfect thing for the art-lover on your list. Meet the people behind the works and browse items from talented local creators such as Press Press, Dana Bechert, and James Bouché. Dec. 14. Current Space, 421 N. Howard St.

Literature

Book Signing: Lost Restaurants of Baltimore

Restaurants come and go so quickly that it’s often hard to keep track of what used to be where. Some places, however, stick with us. Stop by Eddie’s of Roland Park to pick up a signed copy of Suzanne Loudermilk and Kit Waskom Pollard’s exploration of the places and plates that helped build Baltimore into the food city it is today. 2-4 p.m. Dec. 14. Eddie’s of Roland Park, 5113 Roland Ave.

Music

The High & Wides Album Release Show

This rip-roaring group from the Eastern Shore is back with a brand new album, Seven True Stories, and they’re ready to celebrate with Baltimore’s bluegrass-loving crowds. Pack into Creative Alliance to hear live renditions of new tracks such as “Reverie” and “Real America,” then grab your copy of this DIY collection of mostly true tales. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 19. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave.

Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon with Amy Reid and Infinity Knives

Catch up with Catonsville’s Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon post-American Idol at this full night of local talent. Settle in and enjoy the good vibes from electronic artists Amy Reid and Infinity Knives before Harmon takes the stage with dreamy tracks such as “Almost Heaven” and “Learn to Love.” Doors 6 p.m. Show 7 p.m. Dec. 17. Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St.

Theatre

The Wiz

There really is no place like home. Celebrate ArtsCentric’s new space by joining the company for their first show in Remington, a fitting trip to the land of Oz with The Wiz. This retelling of L. Frank Baum’s classic tale featuring an all-black cast swaps out the 1939 movie’s show tunes for a soul, R&B, and pop soundtrack you’ll be humming all the way home. Dec. 13 through Jan. 12. ArtsCentric, 2600 N. Howard St.

Film

Beyond Video Anniversary Party

Celebrate your friendly neighborhood video store’s first birthday with a party at Ottobar featuring vintage dance tunes and tons of giveaways from cinephile favorites such as A24 and Criterion. A few dollars gets you entry to the festivities, but generous partygoers can bring in a movie or two off the wish list in exchange for admission and raffle tickets, as well. 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec 13. Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St.

EAT

Nov. 16: Oyfest 6

Union Craft Brewing, 1700 W. 41st St. 12-5 p.m. $15-50.

This annual oyster palooza checks all the boxes for a standout day of shucking, slurping, and sipping. Let’s go down the list: Bivalves from the bay sourced from regional farms; superior shuckers from The Local Oyster and True Chesapeake Oyster Co.; the fan-favorite oyster-eating contest; live funky sounds by Rufus Roundtree and Da B’more Brass Factory; and tons of beer from host Union Craft Brewing. Need we say more?

DRINK

Nov. 15-17: Rare & Obscure Beer

Max’s Taphouse, 737 S. Broadway. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Free.

For almost 35 years, Max’s Taphouse has been a mecca-like destination for local beer lovers, with thousands of bottles in its collection and a draft list so long that it practically nudges you to try something new. This weekend, the Fells Point staple will temporarily add nearly 100 rare and obscure beers to its menu, with more than 60 deep-cut drafts and a growing list of bottles and cans. Take this opportunity to sip on something new because, who knows, “That’s the Kind of IPA That Makes You Wish You Spoke French” or the “Sierra Nevada Bigfoot 2009” could be your new favorite beer.

SEE

Nov. 14-Dec. 1: Aladdin

The Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. Times vary. $52-175.50.

On the heels of the live-action version of this classic Disney film, the story of Aladdin will come alive on The Hippodrome stage—minus the presence of Will Smith. Bring the whole family to the historic downtown theater to experience the adventures of a street urchin who falls in love with the princess of Agrabah, with plenty of songs, colorful characters, and romance to keep audience members of all ages entertained. Catch this eye-popping musical during its almost three-week run and get ready to go on a magic carpet ride for the ages.

HEAR

Nov. 16-17: Stop Making Sense

Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St. Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 7 p.m. $15-50.

Whether you were in the crowd at the Talking Heads’ 1983 performance at Hollywood’s Pantages Theater or have watched the concert film “Stop Making Sense” a few times over, we can almost guarantee that you’ve never experienced the legendary show like this before. For two nights at the Ottobar, more than 25 Baltimore musicians and performers—including the likes of Landis Expandis on the drums and Jasmine Pope and Amy Reid as guest vocalists—will perform a full-throttle rendition of the epic concert with a light show and lamp-dancing included. Pack the Remington club for this do-good show, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Baltimore Harm Reduction Coalition.

DO

Nov. 16: Holiday Bazaar

Belvedere Square, 540 E. Belvedere Ave. 12-3 p.m. Free.

Get into the (early) holiday spirit this Saturday at Belvedere Square’s family-friendly market, packed with handmade gifts by local artists and makers. In between browsing through wares by vendors such as Scarvelous and Allison Fomich of Tigerlillyshop, grab a sweet treat from Sofi’s Crepes or Chocolate by Jinji, bop along to live music, and spend the afternoon reveling in the start of this chilly holiday season.

Shen Yun
Feb. 17-19. Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. Fri. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 & 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. $91-230. 410-837-7400. In the dead of winter, travel to the mystical world of ancient China with this colorful performance by the world-famous Shen Yun dance and music company. Marvel at the vibrant costumes, breathtaking sets, and an awe-inspiring soundtrack as you embark on a journey across 5,000 years of Chinese culture.

---

Timeless Weft
Feb. 1-July 30. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Fri. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. 443-573-1700. In this intimate exhibit, explore exquisite tapestries from the decades-long career of local artist Louise B. Wheatley. Using ancient techniques with homegrown dyes and hand-harvested fibers, she presents unique textiles with earthy colors, a deep connection to nature, and a celebration of philosophical and religious thought.

---

Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations
Feb. 1-March 5. Everyman Theatre, 315 W. Fayette St. Times & prices vary. 410-752-2208. Ever since last season’s remarkable rendition of August Wilson’s Fences and impressive repertory productions of Death of a Salesman and A Streetcar Named Desire, we’ve been keeping our eye on Everyman. This month’s premiere is sure to impress, as the local theater takes on the timeless Charles Dickens classic, where six actors will play a staggering 35 characters.

---

Black Memorabilia Fine Art & Craft Show
Feb. 11. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$8. 443-263-1800. Celebrate Black History Month with a full day of African-American culture and heritage at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Throughout the day, meet baseball players from the Negro League, grab autographs from Tuskegee Airmen, and learn about the upcoming Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park on the Eastern Shore.

---

Capturing Pablo
Feb. 12. The Fillmore, 8656 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. 7 p.m. $35-45. 301-960-9999. With “Netflix and chill” consuming our social lives, perhaps you’ve followed suit and become deeply addicted to Narcos. The hit series is inspired by the real story of Colombian cocaine king Pablo Escobar and the DEA agents who helped bring him down. For those who didn’t want last season to end, make your way to Silver Spring for one night only as real-life agents Steve Murphy and Javier Pena, pictured above center beside their respective actors, tell their version of the tale.

---

Riverdance
Feb. 17-19. Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric, 140 Mount Royal Ave. Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m. $35-85. 410-900-1150. One month before the green-covered, beer-filled festivities of St. Patrick’s Day, celebrate Ireland with the critically acclaimed high kicks of Riverdance. Now in its 20th year, the Irish dance production returns to the U.S. with awe-inspiring dance numbers (including the all-new “Anna Livia”), eye-catching costumes, mesmerizing lighting effects, and serious athleticism to boot.

---

Infinity Mirrors
Feb. 23-May 14. Hirshhorn Museum, Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Free. 202-633-4674. Grab your cellphones, fire up your Instagrams, and practice your best selfie. Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama is coming to the Smithsonian’s Hirshhorn Museum in Washington, D.C., to present her immersive installations that drip in color, dazzle with light, and mesmerize with floor-to-ceiling mirrors. Delve into the legendary artist’s sensory immersions with some of her most famous works on view, including six mirror rooms, whimsical installations, colorful sculptures, and large-scale paintings that have never before been seen in the U.S.

---

American Craft Council Show
Feb. 24-26. Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St. Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free-$36. 612-206-3100.
At the country’s largest indoor craft show, more than 650 makers of all disciplines come together to present their wares. Weave your way through contemporary crafts, including jewelry by Rebecca Myers of The Village of Cross Keys, ceramics by Ronni Aronin of Baltimore Clayworks, metal sculptures by Devin Mack of Drawn Metal Studios, and woodworks by Darryl Patterson of D. Patterson Design Studio.

The White Snake
Feb. 24-March 26. Center Stage, 700 N. Calvert St. Dates & times vary. $20-74. 410-986-4000. After many months and a $32-million renovation, experience the grand reopening of Center Stage. Described by Artistic Director Kwame Kwei-Armah as “transformative,” the newly redesigned Head Theater sets the stage for this ancient Chinese fable of two magical animal spirits.

Plenty of theater-loving kids belt out show tunes in the car and spend their time at musicals dreaming of one day being the one on stage, but not many get the chance. Bryn Mawr School alumna Annie Sherman is one of the lucky ones.

Now based in New York and fresh off a national tour of The Sound of Music, Sherman is now gracing the stage in another Rogers & Hammerstein classic, The King and I. Sherman is donning Anna’s iconic hoop skirt to star as the plucky governess tasked with teaching in the court of the King of Siam in select performances throughout the show’s national tour. We caught up with her ahead of the show’s run at the Hippodrome from February 19-24.

How has The King and I’s tour been going thus far?
It’s been amazing. I was on a different tour last year and I didn’t expect to be on another one so soon, so it’s such a lovely surprise. But it certainly feels different. This production, I saw it on Broadway with Kelli O’Hara a couple of years back, and it made such an impression on me. To be able to now step into that production, and of course into that role, is a total dream. We’ve been going for about two months now and the group of people that we have is just so amazing, so unparalleled. It’s really special. So many of our cast members are international as well. So I now have all these new friends from all over the world, which is awesome. And I’m able to tell this really poignant, beautiful, and still quite relevant story.

This story includes romance, but it’s not quite a love story, right?
It’s fascinating because our director, she kind of doesn’t allow us to use the words “love” or “romance.” And in my mind, because I used to watch this movie all the time when I was little, I always thought of it as a love story between the king and Anna. But when you examine it today, it really isn’t. It’s not like it doesn’t go into romance at all, but what our director wants to focus on is really the charged relationship between them. It does kind of dance around [romance] in that one scene, which is fascinating, but they are so at odds the whole show. It’s just so different from what I remembered as a kid.

What does it mean to you to bring this show home to Baltimore?
On a personal level, I’m just so excited to be able to show this to the people who trained me. I have a whole bunch of teachers coming who had a part in my development and people from all parts of my upbringing who are going to be able to see this. And I’m so, so proud to be able to show them what we’ve been working on. Then to be performing at the Hippodrome for the first time—it’s going to be amazing. I grew up going to shows there, I saw Avenue Q and Wicked there, just sitting in my seat looking out at the performers and wishing I could be up there on the stage. So that’ll be really special. I also think people from Baltimore are going to love this show. It’s such a classic and it’s also about a clashing of cultures, which I know that Baltimore is very familiar with.

Do you find yourself identifying with Anna at all?
I do feel I identify with Anna. I love to travel. I took time off before I went to college to go travel around, and a lot of that I did on my own. What I love so much about Anna is that she is so fiercely independent. She traveled to a country that she had never been to in 1862 as a woman alone, just with her son. Just to get there was such a feat, let alone to stay for as long as she did and have such a hand in the development of the country. She also has really inspired me to stick up for myself more. You know, she’s such a feminist in a time when “feminist” wasn’t even a word that was being used. Her gumption and her belief in sticking up for not only what she believes women deserve, but what she deserves, that has been inspiring to me.

She’s definitely not the damsel in distress you get in a lot of classics.
Oh, absolutely. I’ve played my fair share of those, and you always have to kind of, in some senses, swallow a pill and be like, “Okay, I know I’m portraying the person. It’s part of the history of the show.” But it’s cool to really be able to stand behind what this woman is practicing and saying. One of my favorite moments is right before “Hello, Young Lovers.” She basically learns that these women do believe that women are more lowly than men. And she immediately takes action and helps these women to know that women are just as good as men and they are as important and as intelligent, which is of course mind-blowing to these women at that time. And that is really what launches her into singing, “Hello, Young Lovers.” This is her way of trying to connect with women from a completely different culture. She thinks, “How can I get on the same page with them?” Love is something that universally we can connect about.

Do you have a favorite number in the show?
Oh my gosh. It’s “Getting to Know You.” It holds all of the sentimental value for me. I mean I sang that song with my mom in the car growing up. But also just to be on stage with all the children and all the female ensemble, just truly enjoying ourselves, is wonderful. They’re dancing, they’re singing, I get to pick up children. I think that that song really embodies a lot of what the show explores and preaches, really coming to understand people who are very different from you and learning to love, and maybe more importantly, choosing to learn.

What part of this show are you most excited for Baltimore to see?
I’m excited for people to see the show with fresh eyes. I think a lot of people will come into it expecting kind of a sing along, but I’m really excited for them to see it now in 2019 and realize how incredibly poignant and groundbreaking it was and how we still need it to be learning from this story.

EAT

Nov. 16: Intercostal Breakdown

Monument City Brewing Company, 1 N. Haven St. 5-10 p.m. Free.

A dip in the temperature and a bit of snow on the ground is all the convincing we need to spend Friday night digging into a pile of smoked ribs with an imperial stout in hand. Head toMonument City Brewing for this one-night-only barbecue pop-up by chef Damian Mosley of Blacksauce Kitchen and chef Patrick Morrow of South Point, featuring fall-off-the-bone ribs cooked on custom grills and cages. In between sampling some of Baltimore’s best ’cue, sip on five-dollar pours and listen to Annapolis-based folk rock band Ampersand Stringband.

DRINK

Nov. 16: The Baltimore Transgender Alliance Fundraiser

Locations vary. 12-10 p.m. Free.

This weekend, The Baltimore Transgender Alliance is hosting a variety of workshops, community discussions, and fundraisers to celebrate our city’s transgender communities. Show your support and raise funds for this local coalition by tagging along on this four-stop bar crawl to favorite haunts including The Back Yard, Peabody Heights Brewery, Charm City Meadworks, and R. Bar. With signature cocktails and a performance by locally renowned DJ Trillnatured along the way, this is a perfect way to meet new people and try new drinks.

SEE

Nov. 16-18: Fiddler on the Roof

Hippodrome Theatre at France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 1 & 6:30 p.m. $70-199.

Set in the tiny village of Anatevka in 1905, this time-honored musical about a poor milkman finding suitors for his five daughters in their Jewish community has become a Broadway classic. During its final leg at the Hippodrome Theatre, experience the charming story that has won the hearts of audiences for decades with themes of change, tradition, and growth, featuring new movement from Israeli choreographer Hofesh Sheather.

HEAR

Nov. 16: Wume

Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St. 9 p.m. $12.

In a few short years, this experimental duo has carved out theirown space in the local music scene for their mesmerizing sound and masterful use of polyrhythmic percussion. This Friday, hear drummer and vocalist April Camlin and keyboardist Albert Schatz debut their third full-length album, Towards the Shadow, on the Ottobar stage and hypnotically bob along to new songs by this rising pair.

DO

Nov. 17: Baltimore Vintage Expo

The Ideal Arts Space, 905 W. 36th St. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free-$12.

Get ahead of the post-Thanksgiving frenzy and start your holiday shopping at this Best of Baltimore-winning market full of one-of-a-kind finds. This Saturday, spend the afternoon browsing through tons of high-end vintage clothing, accessories, furniture, and décor from area retailers. Pro tip: Don’t forget to look up from the racks of Milk & Ice threads and tables of Out of Office home goods to appreciate this Hampden venue’s original Art Deco architecture and design.

EAT

Oct. 13: Fells Point Fun Festival

Thames St. at Broadway. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Free-$18.

Fells Point has undergone a number of changes in the past few years—a fancy new hotel, beloved old dive bars biting the dust—but one thing that remains largely the same is the historic waterfront neighborhood’s annual celebration of all things local. This year, the 52-year-old festival is condensing from a weekend of revelry into one action-packed day of fun. Explore the newly renovated Broadway Square and taste to-go eats from tons of local vendors including Ekiben, Papi’s Tacos, and The Urban Oyster as you stroll along the cobblestone streets.

DRINK

Oct. 12-21: Baltimore Beer Week

Locations, times, and prices vary.

It’s no secret that Charm City’s beer scene has exploded over the past decade with more new breweries, beer-centric events, and homebrewers than ever before. During this nine-day celebration all things hoppy and frothy, check out annual brew week events such as this weekend’s Baltimore Beer Legends Hall of Fame at the Mt. Washington Tavern, Das Bier Oktoberfest at M&T Bank Stadium, along with endless pairings, new releases, and tap takeovers across the city.

SEE

Oct. 13-Nov. 24: Jim Burger: A Charmed Life

Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free.

From Baltimore Orioles fans leaving Memorial Stadium for the final time to women waiting under hair dryers at a Highlandtown salon, images by former Baltimore Sun photographer Jim Burger have encapsulated the city’s hidden beauty over the years. View more than 130 photographs by the MICA grad during this retrospective exhibit, and on Saturday night, join the locally loved lensman at Creative Alliance for a reception to commemorate the opening of this six-week-long presentation.

HEAR

Oct. 12-14: Les Misérables

Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 1 & 6:30 p.m. $54-199.

This weekend, catch this Tony Award-winning musical during its final days on the hallowed Hippodrome stage. Rediscover the timeless story of love and redemption set during the French Revolution in this updated production presented by famed British producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh. With an iconic soundtrack, including songs like “I Dreamed a Dream” and “On My Own,” and an intricate set inspired by creator Victor Hugo’s original artwork, this rendition of the timeless tale will leave audiences wishing the show lasted one day more.

DO

Oct. 12: Open Works Turns Two

Open Works, 1400 Greenmount Ave. 5-8 p.m. Free.

To celebrate two years of helping the city get back in touch with its industrial roots, this beloved Station North makerspace is throwing an anniversary party full of surprises. Stop by on Friday night to check out impressive creations by member makers, sip on local brews from Charm City Meadworks and Peabody Heights, and stick around for the unveiling of Open Works’ new slogan as well as new improvements to be made to the two-story facility.

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

 EAT

March 24: Grand Opening of Roll Ice Cream & Coffee

Roll Ice Cream & Coffee, 3222 Eastern Ave. 12-5 p.m. Free. 443-595-7655.

Even though Winter Storm Toby ruined the first days of spring, that won’t stop us from celebrating the new season with warm-weather festivities. This Saturday, head to Highlandtown for the grand opening of this brand-new ice cream shop, featuring the trendy frozen treat and Thai street-food eat, rolled ice cream. Enjoy free samples, enter to win free ice cream for a year, and watch a live performance by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s OrchKids. And if you’re feeling brave, participate in their inaugural ice cream eating contest. Just brace yourself for the impending brain freeze.

 DRINK

March 23-25: Maryland Day Celebration

The Brass Tap at The Fitzgerald, 1205 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 11 a.m. Free. 888-901-2337.

It’s been nearly four centuries since a group of European settlers first stepped off their ships and onto Maryland’s western shore. Now, we’re celebrating the anniversary of those settlers discovering our great state with events across the city—from museum exhibits to county-wide festivals. At the Brass Tap, more than 20 breweries will showcase two of their best made-in-Maryland brews in this boozy tribute to the Land of Pleasant Living. Expect local favorites like Union Craft, Monument City, and Peabody Heights, DuClaw Brewing, Heavy Seas, and Maryland’s only woman and minority-owned brewery, Denizens Brewing Co. 

 SEE

March 23-25: School of Rock

Hippodrome at France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 1 & 6:30 p.m. $49-107. 410-837-7400.   

Get ready to pledge your allegiance to the band. Based on the hit comedy film of the same name, Broadway’s School of Rock musical follows wannabe-musician-turned-substitute teacher Dewey Finn as he transforms his fifth-grade class into a pint-sized rock band. This weekend at The Hippodrome, hear all the original songs from the movie plus 14 new guitar-shredding pieces from composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. Jack Black not included—sadly. 

 

 HEAR

March 23: Mortified

WTMD, 1 Olympic Pl., Towson. 7:30-10 p.m. $20. 410-704-8938. 

There’s probably nothing more embarrassing than reading your middle school diary in front of a crowd of strangers, and yet Mortified, the largest and longest-running project of its kind, is bringing grown men and women to the Towson radio station to do exactly that. This certifiably cringe-worthy evening of comedy comes to the stage with stories of love letters and home videos, reminding us all of one simple truth—at the end of the day, we’re all awkwardly human. If you can’t make it, tune in to 89.7 FM for a live broadcast.

 

 DO

March 23: Art After Hours: Moondust & Stargazing

The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. 8-11 p.m. $10-25. 443-573-1700. 

This Friday, immerse yourself in all things lunar in honor of The Baltimore Museum of Art’s newest installation, Moon Dust. At this cosmic party, dance beneath Spencer Finch’s shimmering installation to music by DJ Trillnatured, sip on moonshine by the Baltimore Whiskey Company, and experience the scents of night-blooming flowers with local body-care company Priya Means Love. From stargazing on the museum’s steps to making a take-home sparkling constellation, revel in the chance to experience the museum, fittingly, at night.

Let’s be honest—as much as we want to work toward our bikini bodies this season, summer is meant for eating. Of course, lots of that eating will take place at home (crab feast anyone?), but it’s time to get out of your kitchen and give your Weber a rest with the help of these food-driven festivals across the state.

Global Gourmands

MARYLAND LATINO FESTIVAL
8/5-6: Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. $30. Dig into the spicy flavors of Latin cuisine with live music and dancing to boot.

MUSLIM FOOD FESTIVAL
8/12: Islamic Society of Baltimore, 6631 Johnnycake Road, Windsor Mill. Noon-10 p.m. $5-10. Indulge in roasted lamb, curries, falafel, and homemade fruit pops at the fifth annual fete. 

FEAST OF ST. GABRIELE
8/19-20: Little Italy. Sat. 12-8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Prepare to carbo-load (and cannoli overload) with Italian classics and vats of vino during this beloved Little Italy street festival. 

AUGUSTOBERFEST
8/26-27: 14 N. Potomac St., Hagerstown. Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. $5. Head to the hills to celebrate German heritage and culture with steins of bier, brats, and pretzels to support scholarships for exchange students.

Local Pride (& Produce!)

MARYLAND STATE BARBECUE BASH
8/11-12: Bond & Thomas Sts., Bel Air. Fri. 4-10 p.m., Sat. 12-10 p.m. Free. More than 50 BBQ masters compete for the state championship title (and a spot at the world finals in Tennessee).

PEACH FESTIVAL
8/12-13: Weber’s Farm, 2526 Proctor Lane, Parkville. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. Bite into just-ripe peaches and take home baked goods during this county festival.

HEIRLOOM TOMATO FESTIVAL
8/19: Carroll County Ag Center, 706 Agricultural Center Dr., Westminster. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Celebrate the juicy goodness that is the end-of-summer tomato with tastings and seed exchanges during this summer tradition. 

NATIONAL HARD CRAB DERBY
8/22-23: Somers Cove Marina, 715 Broadway, Crisfield. Thu. 6-10 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat. 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. & 7-9 p.m. Free-$17. The 70th annual crab derby includes piles of piping-hot steamed crabs, a parade, a boat-docking contest, and fireworks.

Renowned Restaurants

BALTIMORE COUNTY RESTAURANT WEEK
8/4-19: Locations & times vary. $15-35. For two weeks, dine out with discounted lunches and dinners at the county’s top eateries—places like Linwoods, Ruth’s Chris, and The Milton Inn.

BEST OF BALTIMORE PARTY
8/17: Hippodrome Theater at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. 5:30-11 p.m. $90-150. Celebrate Baltimore’s 110th anniversary and feast on dozens of eats from the city’s “Best Restaurants.”

The Ground
To May 19. Hutzler’s, 200 N. Howard St. Thu.-Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 410-756-0397. There are few artistic institutions in Baltimore more avant-garde and awe-inspiring than The Contemporary. In recent years, the nomadic gallery has presented mesmerizing, mind-bending, and moving projects, showcasing the power of art through alternative exhibits. For its first 2017 show, delve into The Ground, a solo commission by New York-based artist Michael Jones McKean, who has transformed the historic Hutzler’s department store into a massive labyrinth and metaphor on “place.” Through replicas, dioramas, and scenes, he explores dichotomies and turns time on its head, merging past and present, human and nonhuman, and material and digital into a future yet to be seen.

---

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 12. Washington Monument, 699 Washington Pl. 2 p.m. Free. ’Tis the season to celebrate the Emerald Isle, with green beer, green clothing, and the 62nd annual St. Patty’s Day parade. After you run in the annual Shamrock 5K race, make your way to the Washington Monument on Charles Street for a great view of the bagpipers, floats, dance groups, and local officials hoofing it to celebrate the contributions of Irish Americans.

---

Off the Shelf: Modern & Contemporary Artists’ Books
March 12-June 25. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 443-573-1700. Over the years, artists have gone off the canvas and onto the page to turn books into works of art. At the BMA, explore more than 100 rarely shown “artists’ books” by more than 50 iconic artists, including Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and Baltimore’s own Grace Hartigan.

---

Misty Copeland
March 22. MICA, Brown Center, 1300 W. Mount Royal Ave. 7 p.m. $30. 410-396-5494. Since breaking out on the national stage with her memorable “I Will What I Want” ad for Under Armour, American Ballet Theatre dancer Misty Copeland has become an adopted Baltimore icon, and role model for women the world over. This month, at the Maryland Institute College of Art, meet the artist-athlete, hear about her new book, Ballerina Body, and learn the secrets of her envy-inducing calves.

---

Terry Gross
March 22. Goucher College, 1021 Dulaney Valley Road, Towson. 6-9 p.m. $45-175. 410-235-1660. Terry Gross, the host of NPR’s Fresh Air, will speak at Goucher, sharing stories and wisdom from her 40-year career (which has included more than 13,000 conversations with the likes of Johnny Cash, Hillary Clinton, Mel Brooks, and Maurice Sendak). There will even be a chance for audience members to turn the tables and ask the expert interviewer their very own questions.

---

Harlem Globetrotters
March 25. Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 2 & 7 p.m. $25.50-124.50. 410-347-2020. With March Madness finally upon us, we’re fully engulfed in all things basketball, and we don’t just mean the NCAA. At the end of the month, see the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters as they dribble their way into town for a winter game with b-ball wizardry and hoop-shooting tricks that are fun for the family.

---

Stevie Nicks
March 26. Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. 7 p.m. $66-600. 410-347-2020. More than 50 years after Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks wrote her first song, she is still enchanting audiences, touring behind her latest release, 24 Karat Gold: Songs From the Vault, a collection of never-before-released gems, some of which date back to her pre-Fleetwood Mac days. This month, Nicks—joined by special guests The Pretenders—will cast her spell in Baltimore.

---

Light City
March 31-April 8. Locations & times vary. Free. 410-752-8632. We didn’t know what to expect from the Light City arts festival last spring, but boy, did it deliver. A celebration of light, music, and innovation, the inaugural event contributed a whopping $33.8 million to Baltimore’s economy, and attracted some 400,000 attendees to city streets. Starting this month, with a fresh lineup of installations, musicians, movers, and shakers, we anticipate nine nights that will beam even bigger and brighter than last year.

---

Rent
March 31-April 2. Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. Times vary. $48-142. 410-837-7400. It’s been 525,600 minutes—times 20—since this smash-hit musical burst onto Broadway. Two decades later, Rent has become a Pulitzer and Tony award-winning show with beloved characters and an iconic rock soundtrack. A loose adaptation of Puccini’s La Bohème, the story follows seven artists struggling to follow their dreams in New York City.

Chicago
Mar. 3-8. Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. Tues.-Fri. 8 p.m., Sat. 2 & 8 p.m., Sun. 1 & 6:30 p.m. $25-110. 410-837-7400. Forty years and many awards later—including Tonys, Oliviers, a Grammy, and an Oscar—this smash-hit musical has cemented itself as one of Broadway’s very best. Set in Prohibition-era Chitown, this racy, roaring-’20s story combines razzle-dazzle costumes, burlesque dance, and catchy classics like “All That Jazz” and “Cell Block Tango” to tell the tantalizing tale of fortune, fame, corruption, crime, and revenge.

---

Hannibal Buress
Mar. 13. Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric, 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 8 p.m. $25. 410-900-1150. lyricoperahouse.com. You might not know Hannibal Buress by name yet but you’ve probably already seen the young comedian’s work. As a former Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock writer, he’s touched some of the last decade’s best comedy, and now he stars in Comedy Central’s hip, unapologetic, new series, Broad City. A regular standup comedian, Buress is back on the road with a new tour of his dry, direct humor.

---

Maroon 5
Mar. 2. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW, Washington, D.C. 7:30 p.m. $29.50-125. 202-628-3200. The uber-popular pop-rock band and its celebrity heartthrob leader, Adam Levine, is coming to D.C. on the heels of a new, No. 1 album, V. The Grammy-winning, multi-platinum artists will perform new hits like “Maps,” “Moves Like Jagger,” and “Animals,” as well as old favorites like “Sunday Morning” and “This Love.” Plus, opening act Magic! will jam out its reggae-pop chart-topper, “Rude.”

---

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus: Legends!
Mar. 25-Apr. 5. Royal Farms Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St. Times vary. $7.50-45. 410-347-2020. Cue the lights and music: The circus is coming to town later this month. This all-new, traveling tour is a big-top bonanza that brings out all the stops, with fire-juggling clowns, high-flying acrobats, trapeze swingers, and motorcycle daredevils. The family-fun performance will also feature captivating cameos by your kids’ favorite animals, like hoop-jumping dogs, galloping horses, a star cast of big cats, and majestic, magnificent elephants.

---

Singin’ in the Rain
Mar. 27-29. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. $50-105. 410-783-8000. This classic movie produced one of the most iconic song-and-dance routines in cinema history, with a smitten Gene Kelly tapping, twirling, and bursting into song in the middle of a sodden city street. This month, the film returns to the big screen, with a live score by the BSO SuperPops.

[Credits from top: Jeremy Daniel; The Lyric; Verizon Center; Ringling Bros; Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.]