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.

EAT

Dec. 7: R. House’s Birthday Blowout

R. House, 301 W. 29th St. 6 p.m.-12 a.m. Free

This Friday marks the second anniversary of Remington’s beloved food hall, and we have to admit—we’ve spent the better part of the past two years sipping cocktail creations from R. Bar and eating our way through stalls like Amano Taco, Be.bim, and BRD. Celebrate R. House’s big day with two-for-one food specials, a birthday-themed bar, and fun-filled activities like face painting and a scavenger hunt. The adults-only part of the celebration starts at 9 p.m., so be sure to tuck the kiddos into bed and sneak back over before then.

DRINK

Dec. 7: Baltimore Spirits Company Invades Old Line Spirits

The Ready Room Cocktail Bar, 200 S. Janney St. 7-10 p.m. Free.

Since Old Line Spirits added The Ready Room cocktail bar to their Highlandtown facility this summer, it has become a go-to spot for creative cocktails made with the distillery’s signature rums and whiskeys. But for one night only, Baltimore Spirits Company will take over bar with its crowd-favorite spirits like Shot Tower Gin and Fumus Pumila Smoked Apple Brandy. In between sampling sips of winter warmers, try a barrel-smoked meat sandwich from local newcomers Scalawags Pit Meat.

SEE

Dec. 9: A Charlie Brown Christmas

The Modell Lyric, 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 1 & 4 p.m. $25-55.

We all know and love the Peanuts, and this Sunday, see Snoopy and the whole gang come alive on the Lyric stage during this all-new production of A Charlie Brown Christmas. Follow along as Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy and their merry band of Peanuts characters discover the true meaning of Christmas during this family-favorite musical, featuring classic tunes by original composer Vince Guaraldi.

HEAR

Dec. 8: Version with Trillnatured

The Crown, 1910 N. Charles St. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Free.

Although Trillnatured originally made her mark on Baltimore’s music scene with her R&B and jazz-influenced club mixes, Version—her monthly turnups at The Crown that celebrate this city’s LGBTQ community—have made her a local icon. During the final event of the year, dance until all hours of the morning to sounds by Trillnatured herself and rising local rapper Kotic Couture. Be on the lookout for details about Version’s two-year anniversary party in January.

DO

Dec. 7: Handmade in Hampden

SweetSide Cafe, 3543 Chestnut Ave. 4-8 p.m. Free.

With holiday shopping season well underway, stop into this one-day-only market to find locally made gifts for everyone on your list. From handmade scarves and dolls to Baltimore-inspired trinkets, this pop-up shop at SweetSide Café will feature tons of homemade goods by Hampden-based makers such as MerinoCreation and BeautyCounter. While you’re at it, grab a toasty panini and warm latte to fuel your gift-hunting habits.

Spencer Finch: Moon Dust
Feb. 21-Oct. 2024. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m – 5 p.m. Free. 443-573-1700. The Baltimore Museum of Art adds a light installation inspired by lunar dust. Mankind’s eternal fascination with the moon has inspired generations to marvel at the orb’s bright, serene presence in our nighttime sky. Now Brooklyn-based artist Spencer Finch is using the moon’s alluring luster as inspiration for the BMA’s new installation, Moon Dust, on view February 21 through October 13, 2024. For the next six years, Finch will dangle some 150 chandeliers (each one boasting 417 bulbs) from the museum’s ceiling, using a variety of lights to mimic the chemical composition of the moon’s surface as collected during the 1972 lunar landing mission of Apollo 17. But much like the real celestial body, you don’t need to know a lot about chemistry or science to let it light up your imagination.

Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit

Feb. 6. Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric, 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 8 p.m. $29-56. 410-900-1150. In the 11 years since this Alabama native ditched the Drive-By Truckers to go it alone, his widely successful solo career has proved he made the right decision. With two Grammys under his belt, the Americana songwriter returns to Baltimore with his all-star band for a night of pared-down folk songs you won’t forget.

Frederick Douglass Day 

Feb. 10. Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt St. 12-4 p.m. Free-$8. 443-263-1800. Among the many legends born in the Baltimore region, few are more revered than Frederick Douglass. Raised on the Eastern Shore, the freed slave turned iconic abolitionist, author, and orator spent many years in and around Charm City. This year, celebrate his 200th birthday and honor his historic legacy with readings and a children’s storytime at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum.

Steve Martin and Martin Short 

Feb. 16. Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric, 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 8 p.m. $85-235. 410-900-1150. Steve Martin and Martin Short have earned their reputations as comedic titans through their decades-long careers that included such memorable collaborations as Father of the Bride, Three Amigos, and, of course, Saturday Night Live. These funny men are teaming up again for a rare night of double-billed comedy full of off-kilter humor at The Lyric.

Max’s Belgian Beer Fest 

Feb. 16-19. Max’s Taphouse, 737 S. Broadway. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Free. 410-675-6297. Take shelter from the cold weather this February at one of Baltimore’s most hallowed haunts, Max’s Taphouse, during its annual Belgian Beer Fest in the heart of Fells Point. With more than 200 bottles and beers on tap, you can sip on your favorite local brews or go bold with European rarities not commonly found in the U.S. The pub will also be offering Belgium-inspired grub such as cheese platters and frites to help soak up the suds.

Lunar New Year Celebration 

Feb. 18. The Walters Art Museum, 600 N. Charles St. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 410-547-9000. In these uncertain times, we may all feel like we could use a little more luck. On cue, The Walters is bringing together Chinese and Korean dance troupes to perform a traditional Lunar New Year celebration meant to ward off bad luck and usher in good fortune. The museum’s Year of the Dog festivities also feature live music and fun arts activities for the kids.

Fueling the Automobile Age 
 
Feb. 23. Baltimore Museum of Industry, 1415 Key Hwy. Tues.-Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free-$12. 410-717-4808. When people think of oil, they usually think of big-time tycoons in Texas, not little old Baltimore City. But the BMI’s newest permanent exhibition explores all the ways our town contributed to the booming age of automobiles, thanks in large part to former oil heavyweights like Amoco and Crown. Visitors can learn about America’s love of cars by piling into a real 1962 Chrysler Newport station wagon, pumping fuel at a mock gas station, and viewing advertisements from the car heydays of the mid-20th century.

American Craft Show 

Feb. 23-25. 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. $14-34. 612-206-3100. Whether you’re looking for a bold piece of furniture to complete your living room or a fabulous piece of statement jewelry, the American Craft Council’s annual show has you covered. With more than 650 artists hailing from Baltimore and beyond, there are thousands of one-of-a-kind finds, ranging from handmade clothing to fine art and even whiskey.

Django Jazz Fest 

Feb. 23-25. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 7 p.m. $23-72. 410-276-1651. When Belgian jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt lost movement in two of his fingers after a fire, he taught himself to play with the other three, and in the process birthed an entire genre that is now called Gypsy Jazz, an energetic, swinging style that swept the early 20th century. Revel in the form during this weekend celebration featuring music by the likes of Baltimore’s beloved jazz group Ultrafaux and international guitar star Samson Schmitt.

Union’s Fifth Birthday Celebration
Aug. 5. Union Craft Brewing, 1700 Union Ave., Ste. D. 6 p.m.-12 a.m. $30-60. 410-467-0290. We can’t believe it’s been five years since we started drinking Union Craft beer. Within a few sips, we fell head over heels for its Duckpin pale ale and, shortly thereafter, we became lifetime regulars at its communal taproom in Woodberry. From there on out, whenever we saw those colorful, cold cans—be it the simple blue Anthem, the Johnny Depp-bedecked Rye Baby, or the mini-golf scene on the sour gose Old Pro—we knew what we were ordering. Head to the place that started it all to celebrate the brewery’s half-decade in business and its bright future. The founders will pour a bevy of new, classic, rare, and cask drafts until midnight, as local food favorites Gypsy Queen, Ekiben, and The Local Oyster will be on hand to help soak up the suds. Biggest of all, beloved indie band Big In Japan will be in tow, performing live for the first time in 10 years.

White Marlin Open
Aug.7-11. Harbour Island Marina, 419 14th St. #66, Ocean City. 4-9:15 p.m. Free. 410-289-2800. Whether you’re a Lefty Kreh-accredited fisherman or a laid-back, beach-combing spectator, Ocean City is the place to be for this one weekend of the summer. During the world’s largest billfish tournament, throw some line for those long-nosed swimmers, pop in to watch the daily heavyweight weigh-ins, or simply stroll the docks to ogle at all the massive boats. It’s one of the beach’s biggest attractions, drawing thousands of visitors into town and more than $15 million to the local economy.

Mystery Science Theater 3000
Aug. 9. Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric, 140 W. Mount Royal Ave. 8 p.m. $36-46. 410-900-1150. Pre-millennials fondly remember this late ’80s television show that followed a man and his robot friends through the terrible task of watching (and wryly narrating) the worst movies ever made. In the era of remakes, the series is now back with a new cast of characters on Netflix and, this month, at the Lyric. See for yourself if it stands the test of time.

Lady Antebellum
Aug. 13. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 6 p.m. $56.75-199. 410-715-5550. Summer is the season for country music. With your windows down, your jean shorts on, and an ice-cold beer can just waiting to be cracked, there’s no better time to listen to its easy breezy sound. In the middle of the month, boot-scoot down to Columbia for a night of southern music starring this chart-topping trio known for hits like “Bartender” and “Need You Now,” as well as rising songstress Kelsea Ballerini and Cali-infused heartbreaker Brett Young.

Santana
Aug. 15. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 6:30 p.m. $55.50-295. 410-715-5550. For one night only, this legendary guitarist brings his Latin-infused blues-rock to the Merriweather woods for a performance of worldly number one hits, like “Maria Maria” and “Smooth.”

From Digital to Damask
Aug. 16-Feb. 18. The Baltimore Museum of Art, 10 Art Museum Dr. Wed.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 443-573-1700. Maryland artist and MICA professor Annet Couwenberg uses science, technology, and history to weave mesmerizing textiles inspired by two seemingly disparate subjects—ancient aquatic fossils and the traditional costumes of her homeland, the Netherlands—though both are riddled with patterns and texture. Get lost in the lines and folds of these ethereal artworks, including one inspired by the BMA’s own Portrait of a Young Woman by Frans Hals.

Hot August Music Festival
Aug. 19. Oregon Ridge Park, 13401 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. $66-189. 877-321-3378. For the 25th year, Baltimore County’s biggest music festival takes over the hills of Oregon Ridge Park with more than 10 musical acts. Soak up the sounds of eclectic jam bands like Lettuce and Electric Love Machine, and Americana all-stars like headliners Old Crow Medicine Show and the Infamous Stringdusters.

Free to Breathe Yoga Challenge
Aug. 20. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, 1 Safari Pl. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Fundraising required. 608-833-7905. For the second year, the Maryland Zoo will be taken over not by sneakers and strollers but leggings and yoga mats. Last year, the Free to Breathe Yoga Challenge helped raise more than $70,000 for increasing the survival rate of lung cancer, which is the leading cancer killer in the U.S. This year, they hope to double that figure. With deep breaths and restorative exhales, this yoga retreat will feature eight hour-long sessions with some of the city’s best instructors, as well as a walk-in wellness marketplace for fitness demos and healthy food and drink. Whether you downward dog as an individual or reverse warrior with an entire team, open your lungs and support a good cause. 

Maryland State Fair
Aug. 24-Sept. 4. Maryland State Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, Timonium. Times vary. $3-8. 410-252-0200. Whether you’re 8 or 88, this quintessential summer ritual will make you feel young at heart, with amusement rides, carnival games, live animals, fried fair food, and big-name blowout concerts, this year by hard-rock quartet Halestorm and Disney star turned pop singer Sabrina Carpenter.

Maryland Renaissance Festival
Aug. 26-Oct. 22. 1821 Crownsville Road, Annapolis. Times vary. Free-$25. 410-266-7304. Hear ye, hear ye! For nine straight weekends, the country’s second largest renaissance festival will post up in the Anne Arundel County countryside for all the jousting, flower crowns, turkey legs, and mead-fueled merriment your heart could desire.

JUDAH FRIEDLANDER
6/2. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 8 p.m. $17-23. This Maryland native and 30 Rock castmate performs his dry and witty standup comedy in Highlandtown.

STANDUP COMEDY TO BENEFIT THE HOMELESS
6/6. The Windup Space, 12 W. North Ave. 8:30 p.m. Free. Catch more than 25 comics to benefit HashtagLunchbag, an organization working to feed the city’s hungry.  

BRIAN POSEHN
6/9. Rams Head Live, 20 Market Pl. 8 p.m. $15-20. This seasoned comedian has starred in The Simpsons, The Big Bang Theory, and The Sarah Silverman Program, and now comes to Baltimore for a live set. 

CHRIS D’ELIA
6/15. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 7:30 & 10 p.m. $30-50. This comedian turned up-and-coming actor brings his raunchy humor to the downtown stage. 

LOUIE ANDERSON
6/18. Rams Head on Stage, 33 West St., Annapolis. 5:30 & 8:30 p.m. $35. Throw back some laughs with this lauded entertainer who boasts three Emmys, a nod on Comedy Central’s list of 100 Greatest Stand-Up Comedians of All Time, and a lauded new role as a woman on Baskets by Louis C.K. and Zach Galifianakis.

JOHN MULANEY
6/18-19. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. 8 p.m. $28-38. Live from Baltimore, it’s John Mulaney! Known best for his writing with Saturday Night Live, this comedic natural displays his wit and charm at the Meyerhoff.  

AWKWARD SEX & THE CITY
6/23. The Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St., 8 p.m. $10. This New York City-based comedy group comes to Remington for just one night to tell stories about their most embarrassing sexual experiences. Be sure to attend for all the hysterical—and cringe-worthy—moments from from this group of women (and one guy!). 

CRAIG ROBINSON
6/23-6/25. Baltimore Comedy Factory, 5625 O’Donnell St. 7 p.m. $27. Though he started off as a Chicago public school teacher, Craig Robinson is now known for his hilarious roles in The Office, Hot Tub Time Machine, and his own Mr. Robinson. Expect him to blend his two passions on stage: comedy and music.

BILL MAHER

6/24. Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric, 140 W. Mount Royal Ave. 8 p.m. $45-305. This dry, unfiltered HBO host performs standup at The Lyric.

The Akimbo Dance & Movement Art Festival
Sept. 10. Station North Arts District, 1-6 p.m. To celebrate Baltimore’s growing dance community, The Akimbo Dance & Movement Art Festival returns for its fifth year with a free day of performances throughout the vibrant Station North Arts & Entertainment District. Across 18 sites like the Maryland Institute College of Art, Motor House, and the Ynot Lot, more than 150 regional artists will showcase everything from traditional and experimental dance to music, spoken word, installation, and performance art.

Star-Spangled Banner Weekend
Sept. 9-11. Fort McHenry, 2400 E. Fort Ave. Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free-$10. 410-962-4290. One-hundred years ago last month, the National Park Service was born, and nine years after its creation, the NPS named Baltimore’s Fort McHenry one of its first national parks. The site protected the city from British invasion during the War of 1812, now known as Defender’s Day, and thus inspired the national anthem. On Sept. 9-11, commemorate these historic events with reenactments, cannon firings, colonial music, and family activities, including festive fireworks and a patriotic concert by the United States Army Field Band on Saturday, and a special 9/11 memorial ceremony on Sunday.

Hampdenfest
Sept. 17. The Avenue, West 36th Street. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. 410-662-4444. Grab your friends and toilet bowls—an only-in-Baltimore sentiment if we ever heard one—and head to The Avenue for Hampdenfest. At this free street festival, enjoy local beer, regional food, and live music on one of three stages. Get to know the neighborhood, but don’t miss the crowd favorite toilet bowl race down Chestnut Avenue, or the pie-eating contest with sweets by Dangerously Delicious Pies.

Baltimore Seafood Festival
Sept. 17. Canton Waterfront Park, 3001 Boston St. 12-7 p.m. $15-99. It’s no secret that Maryland is the seafood capital of the mid-Atlantic, where crab is king and the key to a perfect summer day. It’s only fitting, then, to spend one of the last afternoons of the season at Baltimore’s third annual seafood festival. On the edge of the Canton waterfront, sip on some cold beer as you dig into an endless supply of oysters, crabs, and other under-the-sea essentials, with live music from local bands, cocktails and crafts. With face painting, activities, and games for the kids, you can bring the whole family to toast our Chesapeake Bay heritage and say sayonara to 90-degree days.

John Waters’s Kiddie Flamingos
Sept. 21-Jan. 22. 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. We’re all familiar with Baltimore’s most notorious (and beloved) auteur, John Waters. The renowned director is a legend thanks to his iconic camp films and, increasingly, his fine art, which has been twice featured at The Baltimore Museum of Art. This month, catch his latest project: a 74-minute, G-rated rendition of Pink Flamingos, with lines read by children in wigs and mock versions of the original costumes. We can’t wait to see the pint-size Divine.

BSO Pulse: Houndmouth
Sept. 22. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. 8:30 p.m. $35. 410-783-8000. After a successful inaugural season, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and WTMD “Pulse” concert series returns this month with Indiana-based indie rockers Houndmouth. Sharing the stage with the BSO, the up-and-coming trio brings its Americana medleys like “Sedona” to this one-of-a-kind collaboration. Be sure to get to the Meyerhoff early for a pre-concert party in the lobby, featuring live local music, happy-hour drinks, local brews, and food specials from area restaurants.

Baltimore Innovation Week
Sept. 23-Oct. 1. Locations, times, & prices vary. 215-821-8745. While Baltimore’s heyday as a manufacturing mecca might be a memory, it’s safe to say the city is slowly becoming a new industry town of innovation and technology. During the fifth annual Baltimore Innovation Week, get to know the new techies with big-name headliners, curated events, networking opportunities, and a dedicated App Arcade.

Dirty Talk With Mike Rowe
Sept. 24. Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric, 140 W. Mount Royal Ave. 8 p.m. $25-65. 410-900-1150. Ever wonder what really goes on behind the scenes of reality TV shows? Baltimore’s own Mike Rowe isn’t afraid to tell all, and this month, he returns home for one night to reveal the dirty truth behind his popular Discovery Channel show, Dirty Jobs.

Baltimore Book Festival
Sept. 23-25. Baltimore Inner Harbor. Fri.-Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. 410-752-8632. The Baltimore Book Festival makes us pretty confident that we are still “the city that reads.” After 21 years, this three-day fete continues to be a book-lover’s paradise, with hundreds of speakers, exhibitors, and booksellers of every genre. Hear live stories by Stoop Storytelling, listen to Baltimore native D. Watkins discuss his new book, and indulge in local food, craft beer, and live music by area bands.

New Arrivals: Gifts of Art for a New Century & Maryland Artists
Feb. 7-May 8. 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. The BMA’s New Arrivals series is officially complete, and now, in nearly every corner of the museum, you can see a new exhibition, with each of the seven on display to honor the institution’s 100th anniversary. Explore approximately 200 recently acquired artworks, including decorative African hats, French sculptures, and American Gilded Age etchings in “Gifts of Art for a New Century,” as well as creations by accomplished locals like painter Raoul Middleman, auteur-cum-photographer John Waters, and Baltimore printmaker Gabrielle de Veaux Clements in “Maryland Artists.”

The Stoop Turns 10
Feb. 10. The Senator Theatre, 5904 York Rd. 8 p.m. $20. 410-323-4424. It’s been quite a year for Stoop Storytelling, the beloved Baltimore series that shares sometimes-touching, often-hilarious stories about everything from blind dates with Monica Lewinsky to losing a hairpiece on live television. Not only is the brainchild of Laura Wexler, pictured right, and Jessica Henkin, left, turning 10 this year, but it’s also got new digs: the historic, 700-seat Senator Theatre. In honor of the Stoop reaching double digits, check out its upgraded space and reminisce on the awkward adventures of adolescence with a whole slew of fresh tales at this special anniversary show. Come early for cocktails and live music from the All Mighty Senators.

BSO 100th Anniversary Concert
Feb. 11. Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, 1212 Cathedral St. 8 p.m. $50-150. 410-783-8000. This month, come out and celebrate 100 years of our beloved Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. After a century, the BSO continues to move forward, melding classic orchestral works with new ventures like its contemporary Pulse concert series with WTMD. To honor the past and the future, conductor Marin Alsop joins superstar violinist Joshua Bell, pictured left, for a fresh take on music new and old. Hear Ravel’s turn-of-the-century Boléro, Gershwin’s Caribbean Cuban Overture, Bernstein’s West Side Story suite, and Mason Bates’s electronica Mothership.

Romeo & Juliet
Feb. 11-12. Hippodrome Theatre at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, 12 N. Eutaw St. 7:30 p.m. $58.50-80.50. 410-837-7400. With an oeuvre as thick as Shakespeare’s, it says a lot that this 16th-century romantic-tragedy remains his most famous masterpiece, as the star-crossed play still pulls at the heartstrings of audiences across the globe. Just before Valentine’s Day, the timeless tearjerker comes to Baltimore with a full-scale production by the State Ballet Theatre of Russia.

Beach Boys
Feb. 17. Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric, 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 7:30 p.m. $35-70. 410-900-1150. God only knows what pop music would be without the Beach Boys and their iconic, sun-kissed hits like “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” “I Get Around,” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” Now, 50 years after the release of their seminal Pet Sounds album—and following decades of breakups and make-ups—the boys are back on the road. This time around, original bandmate and lead singer Mike Love hits the stage with vocalist/bassist Bruce Johnston, who joined the band in 1965 following Brian Wilson’s retirement from live performing.

Rye Rye
Feb. 20. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 8 p.m. Free. 410-276-1651. Before there was TT The Artist and Abdu Ali, there was Rye Rye, who, in 2008, was one of the first to revive the homegrown, high-energy, breakbeat genre of Bmore Club, initially made famous in decades prior by DJ Scottie B and 92Q’s K-Swift. At the ripe age of 17, the artist’s vivacious style and confident sound led to Rolling Stone reviews, a spot on Billboard’s “21 under 21,” and collaborations with M.I.A., Robyn, and Diplo. Lately, the 25-year-old has been lying low, but this month, you can catch her dance-party fire at the Creative Alliance.

American Craft Council Show
Feb. 19-21. 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. In the midst of the winter doldrums, surround yourself with pretty things at this three-day celebration of all things American-made. With more than 650 jewelry, clothing, furniture, and home décor artists in attendance from Baltimore and beyond, meet the makers, browse their beautiful goods, and buy something nice to ward off those bad-weather blues.

1st Annual Charm City Django Jazz Fest
Feb. 26-27. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m. $22-28. 410-276-1651. You might not know his name, but you’ve definitely heard the influence of Django Reinhardt on jazz music. During the 1940s, this Belgian-born guitarist toured with legends like Duke Ellington, revolutionized what it meant to be a solo jazz artist, and made “gypsy jazz” a household phrase. This month, celebrate the musician’s legacy with two music-filled nights at the Creative Alliance’s first-ever tribute festival, featuring the likes of Ultrafaux, a rip-roaring local gypsy swing group, and Stephane Wremble, who was recruited by Woody Allen to score his Oscar-winning 2011 film, Midnight in Paris.

Concert for Hope 10
Feb. 27. Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Pl. 8:30 p.m. $25-35. 410-244-0057. Four years ago, hearts broke when one of Baltimore’s most beloved jam bands decided to split up. A decade into their career, The Bridge had become a hometown favorite for their funky rock music, but like some of the greatest love stories, it didn’t work out, as the sextet was unable to sustain the taxing lifestyle. In the years that followed, frontman Cris Jacobs embarked on his own solo adventures while the band reunited here and there including, unfailingly, at its annual benefit concert for HopeWell Cancer Support, now 10 years strong.

With the holiday season fast approaching, there’s no better way to get in the spirit than to start celebrating early. Here are some of the best November events to get you in a festive mood.

WINTERFEST OF LIGHTS
11/19-1/3: Northside Park, Ocean City. Head downy ocean for a dazzling holiday light display with hot chocolate and pictures with Santa.

CIRQUE DREAMS: HOLIDAZE
11/20-21: Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric. Christmas ornaments come to life in this variety show full of mind-bending stunts, Broadway tunes, and holiday fun.

MARYLAND CHRISTMAS SHOW
11/20-22, 27-29: Frederick County Fairgrounds, Frederick. Browse gifts by local artisans, craftsmen, and merchants with a big-top tent holiday show.

A TUNA CHRISTMAS
11/20-12/20: Spotlighters Theatre. Follow local news reporters in this Christmas story set in small-town Tuna, TX.

A CARROLL’S CHRISTMAS
11/20-12/31: Mount Clare Museum House. Step back in time and experience a Colonial American Christmas with the Carroll family.

HOLIDAY MAKER SERIES: CANDY MAKING
11/21: Maryland Science Center. Make your own chocolate creations in this holiday-themed workshop, perfect for a homemade gift or holiday treat.

MAGICAL HOLIDAY EXPRESS
11/21-22 & 12/1-1/3: B&O Railroad Museum. lThe holidays mean all train everything at the B&O, with train rides, model train layouts, and special appearances by Santa throughout the holidays.

FESTIVAL OF TREES
11/27-29: Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium. This Land of Pleasant Living tradition features life-sized holiday scenes, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, and live entertainment.

FESTIVAL OF WREATHS
11/27-12/6: Carroll County Arts Council, Westminster. Deck your halls with one of 150 decorated wreaths from this annual silent auction.

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF TRAINS
11/27-1/24: B&O Railroad Museum, Ellicott City. Start the season with the museum’s annual celebration of toy trains.

WEINBERG WINTERFEST
11/28: Weinberg Center for the Arts, Frederick. Bring cash or canned-food donations to hear sing-alongs, see silent films, and enjoy Tuba Christmas, a four-part Christmas carol ensemble featuring 80 regional tuba and euphonium players.

Free Fall Baltimore
Oct. 1-31. Locations & times vary. 410-752-8632. This fall, celebrate the city with more than 300 free events ranging from theater, dance, and music to art exhibits, readings, and classes, including local museum happenings at the BMA, BMI, and AVAM, gallery shows at Current Space, EMP Collective, and MICA, and performances by local groups like the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, Everyman Theatre, and Baltimore Improv Group.

Baltimore Running Festival
Oct. 17. Starting line: Camden Yards, 400 W. Camden St. Finish line: M&T Bank Stadium, 1101 Russell St. Times vary. $15-280. 410-605-9381. thebaltimoremarathon.com. Whatever your fitness level, grab your sneakers and hit the pavement for the 15th annual Baltimore Marathon. From the Inner Harbor through historic Fells Point and Federal Hill, join tens of thousands of runners to participate in a full marathon, half-marathon, 5K, relay, or fun-run around the city.

WPOC’s Weekend In the Country
Oct. 3-4. Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. Sat.-Sun. 2:30 p.m. $55-75. 410-715-5550. Head to Nashville by way of Columbia at 93.1 WPOC’s two-day country music festival. The genre’s top talent will be in tow, ranging from its new class of wonder women, like Cam and Kelsea Ballerini, to Southern, soulful heartthrobs, like Sam Hunt, Brantley Gilbert, and Canaan Smith. Be it cowboy hats, bandanas, or cut-off blue jeans, we recommend barnyard threads for this backwoods boogie.

The Big Hope Show
Oct. 3-Sept. 4, 2016. American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Hwy. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $20. 410-244-1900. The museum’s 20th anniversary exhibition, The Big Hope Show features works by over 25 artists, and is just the oddball, effervescent tonic the city needs after a stressful and charged spring and summer. Among the exhibitors are Bobby Adams, a member of John Waters’s band of merry misfits, sharing behind-the-scenes photos and assemblages; Chris Roberts-Antieau, a fabric artist known for her vibrant panels; and Wayne Coyne, the frontman of the experimental rock band The Flaming Lips, whose surreal art has never before been exhibited in a museum. “I never thought any art museum would ever consider me,” Coyne says. “It’s wonderful to be thought of as an artist that deserves to be in AVAM.” —Amy Mulvihill

Pigtown Festival
Oct. 10. 700-900 blocks of Washington Blvd. 12-7 p.m. Free. 443-908-7038. pigtownmainstreet.org. Now in its 14th year, the prized Pigtown Festival is back on Washington Boulevard with a big block party to celebrate the South Baltimore neighborhood. Sticking to tradition, the much-loved “Squeakness” pig races will once again run down the city streets, with lots of fine fried food, pit barbecue, and live, local music, including the funky, old-school sounds of The Kelly Bell Band.

Last Comic Standing
Oct. 21. Modell Performing Arts Center at The Lyric, 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. 7:30 p.m. $28.50-38.50. 410-900-1150. This long-standing comedy competition is heading off the NBC airwaves and on the road for an all-new, cross-country tour, with the top contestants performing some of the best sketch, improv, and stand-up around. You might even catch the next Amy Schumer, the former-LCS-loser-turned-raunchy-American-sweetheart and comedy’s current big thing.

Maryland vs. Penn State
Oct. 24. M&T Bank Stadium, 1101 Russell St. 2 p.m. $65-115. 410-547-7328. With college football season now in full swing, it’s time to don your red and black, bring your tailgate A-game, and live by these three little words: Fear the Turtle. For one festive fall Saturday, post up at Ravens Stadium and watch the University of Maryland Terrapins take on the Penn State Nittany Lions. Last year, the two teams competed for the first time in more than 20 years (and the first time as Big Ten rivals) with the Terps enjoying a 20-19 win on the Lions’ turf. Let’s see if they can do it again, this time in their own home state.

Doors Open Baltimore
Oct. 24. City of Baltimore, locations vary. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 410-625-2585. For one day, go behind-the-scenes at some of the city’s best buildings, studios, and landmarks with Doors Open Baltimore, part of Baltimore Architecture Month. From Hampden to Locust Point and beyond, delve into the local neighborhoods with dozens of talks and tours throughout the day. Discover the historic relationship between The Walters Art Museum and its Mt. Vernon neighborhood, learn what the Creative Alliance’s Patterson Theater looked like upon opening in 1930, get a one-of-a-kind window into the old factory that now houses Union Craft Brewing in Woodberry, and explore the 234-foot Phoenix Shot Tower that looms above President Street.

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.]