We love this time of year because warmer weather means lots of local happenings taking place right outside. There are many things going on throughout the month of May that everyone can enjoy. For your convenience we have compiled some of our favorite local events of this month — festivals ranging in categories including everything from music, art, wine & beer, running, bbq, and more. Enjoy the outdoors as much as you can, because we all know how fast the summer season tends to fly by!
Compiled by Melissa Lauren
NAPTOWN BARBAYQ CONTEST AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
brWhat’s Up? Media is a proud sponsor of The Naptown barBAYq Contest and Music Festival held at the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds in Crownsville. The festival is Friday, May 6th 4–10 p.m. and on Saturday the 7th noon–10 p.m. This family-friendly event features food, libations, continuous live music from two stages, activities for all ages, arts and crafts vendors, and
cooking demonstrations. Money raised by this Annapolis Rotary Club event will be used to fulfill grant requests. Tickets are
$15–20; admission is free for kids 12 and under. For more information call 443-254-1400 or visit barbayq.com.
ANNAPOLIS SUMMER GARDEN THEATRE OPENING SEASON
brThe Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre celebrates 50 years this season! Kicking off the season this month, they’re presenting The Wedding Singer (May 26th–June 18th). Rent opens June 30th and runs through July 23rd. And later in the season The Producers (August 4th–September 4th). Shows take place weekly from Thursday through Sunday at 8:30 p.m. (with some Wednesday shows) and tickets are $22 per show or $56 for the season. For more information call 410-268-9212 or visit Summergarden.com.
BREW AT THE ZOO
brBrew at the Zoo is the annual outdoor festival at The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. Party like an animal on Saturday, May 28th and Sunday, May 29th at the Waterfowl Lake Pavilion from 1 p.m.–7 p.m. daily. This fun, family-friendly event provides unlimited sampling of a diverse assortment of local and national beers and wines, while absorbing some local live music. It’s also the years’ biggest fundraiser for the Zoo, supporting the education, conservation, and animal programs! Tickets are $69. For more information call 410-396-7102 or visit Marylandzoo.org.
CHESAPEAKE BAY BLUES FESTIVAL
brThe Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival is Saturday, May 21st 11 a.m.–9 p.m. and Sunday, May 22nd, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. at Sandy Point State Park. Gates open at 10:30 a.m. Blues greats including Joe Bonamassa (pictured), Canned Heat, John Mayall, Tab Benoit, Heritage Blues Orchestra, Sonny Landreth, Mud Morganfield, Dana Fuchs, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Danielle Nicole, Michael McHenry Tribe, and more will be performing. Proceeds from this event support the nonprofits We Care and Friends, which offers assistance to the homeless and those in need, and Special Love, Inc. helping children with cancer and their families in the Mid-Atlantic region. Tickets are $65–125. For more information call 410-982-0799 or visit Bayblues.org.
ANNAPOLIS SYMPHONY FAMILY CONCERTS
brAnnapolis Symphony presents their Family Concert on Saturday, May 14th at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts. Squeaks, tweets, rattles and honks! Really Inventive Stuff brings you The Professor, a whimsical Austrian sound scientist, who travels the world with his amazing acoustic laboratory but needs your help to complete the melody of Mozart’s The Toy Symphony. Come prepared to play along as the audience becomes the missing instrument. Then Britain’s own Symphonia Semi d’Quaver, the internationally renowned Orchestra-ologist, consummate animateur, and devoted fan of Henry Purcell, will host Benjamin Britten’s classic introduction to the orchestra with wit and a wink. In addition, children and families may “Meet the Musicians” at 1:15 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on the day of Family Concerts. Tickets are $10–15. For more information call 410-263-0907 or visit Annapolissymphony.org.
MAY DAY FLOWER BASKETS AND FOUR RIVERS GARDEN CLUB FLOWER MART
brTour historic downtown Annapolis and enjoy all of the May Day Baskets gracing the doors of shops and historic homes, a lovely custom celebrated in Annapolis since Colonial times! If you are a downtown Annapolitan, don’t forget to hang your basket in order to participate in the friendly competition. Members of the Four Rivers Garden Club host the annual May Day Flower Mart in downtown Annapolis in front of the Market House 8 a.m.–2 p.m on May 1st. An assortment of native plants and perennials from members’ gardens as well as herbs, cut flowers, and garden treasures will be offered for sale. May Day baskets will be available for pre-order or for sale the day of the event. A flower-arranging workshop at 9 a.m. will guide the novice in the creation of a May Day basket. The fee for the workshop is $25, which includes supplies. May Day May Flower Mart proceeds support community gardening projects as well as local historic houses and gardens. For more information call 443-995-2993.
PREAKNESS
brSee the horses fly outta the gate at the 141st Preakness Saturday, May 21st at Pimlico in Baltimore. Seating options include the Grandstand and Clubhouse section, Infield, the Mug and Vine Lounge in the Infield, and the Turfside Terrace
and Clubhouse Turn reserved seating. Prices vary. For more information call 410-542-9400 or visit Preakness.com.
BLUE ANGELS AND UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY COMMISSIONING WEEK
brThe Blue Angels, the graceful group of six blue and gold F/A-18 Hornets will practice over the Severn River Tuesday, May 24th 11 a.m.–1 p.m. with a circle and arrival and a rehearsal at 2 p.m. Their full performance will take place on Wednesday, May 25th at 2 p.m. The squadron will then perform their annual Naval Academy Graduation flyover at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on Friday, May 27th at 10 a.m. For more information visit Blueangels.navy.mil. Take in one of Annapolis’ finest traditions from May 20th–May 27th as the town helps the Midshipmen Class of 2016 celebrate their graduation from the United States Naval Academy. The Plebe Class will climb the Herndon Monument on Monday, May 23rd at 1:30 p.m. signifying their rise to their second year. And the Color Parade will take place at Worden Field on Thursday, May 26th at 11 a.m. Other Commissioning Week events include the Glee Club concerts, awards ceremonies, and more. For more information visit Usna.edu/CommisioningWeek.
AMERICAN VISIONARY ART MUSEUM’S 18TH ANNUAL KINETIC SCULPTURE RACE
brFrom the American Visionary Art Museum the Annual Kinetic Sculpture Race is a 15-mile race of wacky, imaginative, totally human-powered works of art, designed to travel on land, through mud, and over deep harbor waters, constructed out of used bicycles, gears, and parts, created by “mad geniuses” who tinker around in the garage or backyard. The machines can be simple, small crafts, piloted by only one brave soul, or they can be more than 50 feet long, extremely well-engineered, sophisticated vehicles powered by a team of pilots a.k.a. “Kinetinauts.” The race starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 7th at the American Visionary Art Museum. The event is free for spectators. For more information call 410-244-1900 or visit Avam.org or KineticBaltimore.com.
THE NEXTIVAL
brIntroducing the first-ever Nextival Music Festival, presenting music for the masses and fun for kids of all ages! Expect the unexpected at The Nextival on Saturday, May 21st 10 a.m.–10 p.m. at the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds. The event will feature more than 15 food trucks curated by fellow foodies and 10 inflatable entertainment bouncy-houses! Plus, there will be art tables, Legos, face painting, balloon creations, glitter tattoos, and a kids’ music stage with music, magic, and puppet shows all day. The Nextival includes the area’s best local talent and emerging artists. National act Junior Marvin’s Wailers will headline. Other music acts include The Cornerstone, Pressing Strings, Future Elevators, Mend the Hollow, Skribe, Swampcandy, Higher Hands, Dean Rosenthal, Alexander Peters & The Roosters, Dominic Fragman, Gingerwolf, 3rd Grade Friends, Naked Blue, Fast as Lightning, and more! Tickets are $15. Kids 14 and under get in for free! For more information call 800-225-2071 or visit Nextival.com.
WINE IN THE WOODS FESTIVAL
brEnjoy wine tasting from local vineyards, live music, and more all in the idyllic setting of Symphony Woods in Columbia. Wine in the Woods will be held on Saturday, May 21st 11 a.m.–6 p.m. and Sunday, May 22nd 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Tickets are $20–35. For more information call 410-313-4700 or visit Wineinthewoods.com.
FIRST SUNDAY ARTS FESTIVAL
brThe place to be to check out items crafted by more than 100 local and regional artists and crafters, the First Sunday Arts Festival in Annapolis kicks off its first event of the season series on Sunday, May 1st. The festival is held on Calvert and West streets 11 a.m.–5 p.m. and features live music, as well as dance and street performances. A popular and free event, the festival hosted more than 45,000 people last year, and is not to be missed. Catch it every first Sunday of the month through November. For more information visit Firstsundayarts.comFirstsundayarts.com.
SPCA WALK AND RUN FOR ANIMALS
brYour friends at What’s Up? Media double dog dare you to donate to the SPCA! Join the 25th Annual SPCA Walk and Run for the Animals was postponed to Sunday, June 19th at Quiet Waters Park. The 5K Run starts at 8 a.m. and the walk starts at 9 a.m. There is even a Tails and Trails 5K! The benefit event will allow the SPCA to continue its efforts in providing shelter and rehabilitation to companion animals in need and promoting humane care and concern for the animals. To register and for more information call 410-268-4388 or visit aacspca.org.
BOWIE BAYSOX
brRoot for your home team, the Bowie Baysox this season at Prince George’s Stadium. They play home games weekday evenings as well as Fridays and Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and throw out the first pitch on Sundays at home starting at 2 p.m. Prices vary. For schedule information and online ticketing visit baysox.com.
WALK THE WALK FOUNDATION WALK: ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY KIDS IN NEED BENEFIT
brWalk the Walk Foundation hosts The Walk benefiting Anne Arundel County Kids in Need on Thursday, May 12th 6–8 p.m. at Waugh Chapel Towne Centre in Gambrills. Walk the Walk Foundation exists to serve local, underprivileged children through a Christmas gift program, providing school supplies, and meeting various basic needs. This family-friendly event features kids’ activities, live music, and a beer garden. There will also be prizes for lucky participants. The minimum donation level is $10. For more information call 866-989-3674 visit Wtwf.org.
PINEY ORCHARD STREET FESTIVAL
brThe Seventh Annual Piney Orchard Street Festival is Saturday, May 21st 11 a.m.–6 p.m. This family-friendly event is open
to the public and includes food, crafts, games, a moon bounce, face painting, sand art, a volcano rock wall, a giant slide, pony rides, raffle tables, and more. For more information call 410-672-4273 or visit Pineyorchard.com.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT SAILBOAT RACES
brAn Annapolis tradition, Wednesday Night Sailboat Races run through the month of August. The competitions start at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays near the mouth of Spa Creek.The finish draws a crowd along the waterfront at various points of land within the Annapolis Harbor; as many as 125 sailboats have been known to compete at any given time.
CAMBRIDGE BEER FESTIVAL
brTake part in the festivities on High Street and celebrate the finest craft brews made regionally at the Cambridge Beer Festival on Saturday, May 14th at 12 p.m. There will also be live music and amazing food. Afterwards, celebrate Second Saturday with late shopping hours, free gallery receptions, dining specials, and more. Prices vary. For more information call 443-247-0843.
PAINT ANNAPOLIS
brPaint Annapolis is a five-day juried plein air painting competition held Monday, May 30th–Monday, June 5th with an exhibition of artwork Sunday, June 5th–Sunday, June 12th. For 14 years, Paint Annapolis has been a premier event, bringing people around the world and our city to share in the spirit of outdoor painting. Paint Annapolis features 30 juried artists from around the world for five days of competitive painting. Two painting events will be open to the public, a Nocturne, or night painting, on Tuesday, May 31st and Dueling Brushes, a quick draw competition, on Sunday, June 5th. For more information call 410-268-4566 or visit mdfedart.com.
THE 1ST ANNUAL BAY BRIDGE PADDLE
brThe first ever across-the-bay-bridge-not for-the-faint-of-heart Bay Bridge Paddle is Saturday, May 14th at Sandy Point State Park. Whether you’re brand new to paddling or a seasoned veteran, this paddle will have something for paddlers of all skill levels. The 8.4-mile race course will take competitors across the breathtaking Chesapeake Bay and underneath the magnificent Bay Bridge 8–11 a.m. More than $7,000 in prize money will be awarded. There will also be a 5K paddle, as well as a novice slalom course for kids and adults closer to the beach area. The event will benefit many local charities including the Foundation for Community Betterment and the Maryland Special Olympics. Registration is $35–100. For more information call 415-766-7223 or visit Paddleguru.com/races/baybridgepaddle.
FINE ARTS AT OXFORD
brThe 32nd annual Fine Arts at Oxford juried exhibition and sale will take place Saturday, May 21st 10 a.m.–5 p.m. through Sunday, May 22nd 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at Oxford Community Center. Juried exhibitors will be on hand to display and sell their works. The weekend includes demonstrations and a raffle. Lunch will be available. Tickets are $5. For more information call 410-226-5904 or visit Oxfordcc.org.
CHESTERTOWN TEA PARTY
brThe Chestertown Tea Party Festival celebrates colonial resistance to British rule with historical happenings during the weekend of Friday, May 27th through the 29th. In response to British Parliament’s closing of the port of Boston, the citizens of Chestertown, Maryland, met in May of 1774 and set forth “Resolves” forbidding importing, selling, or consuming tea in Chestertown. According to local legend, residents then gathered at the town center, marched down High Street to the brigantine Geddes, which was anchored in the Chester River, and tossed her cargo of tea overboard. The annual reenactment is the centerpiece of the Chestertown Tea Party Festival and takes place at 2 p.m. on Saturday. All Festival events take place along the Chester River and in the historic district of 18th-century Chestertown. Festivities include: the Colonial Parade, Street Party, Raft Race, street performances, colonial crafts, musicians, a 5K and 10K run, and more. The Wine and Craft Beer Tasting is Sunday at Wilmer Park noon–4 p.m. featuring local Maryland wineries and brewers. For more information visit Chestertownteaparty.com.
24TH ANNUAL SOFT SHELL SPRING FAIR
brThe 24th Annual Soft Shell Spring Fair is Sunday, May 29th noon–5 p.m. at Crisfield City Dock. This delicious event features soft crabs and seafood of all kinds, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, demonstrations, entertainment, and more. For more information call 410-968-2500 or visit Crisfieldchamber.com.
CHESAPEAKE BAY MARITIME MUSEUM LIGHTHOUSE OVERNIGHT ADVENTURES
brThe Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum hosts Lighthouse Overnight Adventures on select Fridays and Saturdays now through June. Under the guidance of a museum educator, youth groups and their chaperones can travel back in time to explore the life of a late 19th century lighthouse keeper, all while spending the night in the historic 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse. Tickets are $40, which include: one overnight stay in the lighthouse, a dedicated museum facilitator, the cost of program activities, two days admission to the museum, and a souvenir patch. For more information call 410-745-4947 or visit Cbmm.org.
SAIL ON SKIPJACK NATHAN OF DORCHESTER
brThe Chesapeake Bay skipjack Nathan of Dorchester offers unique sails on the beautiful Choptank River out of Long Wharf in Cambridge. The Nathan was commissioned July 4, 1994, built by volunteers to preserve the wooden boat building skills and maritime heritage of the region. Learn about the oyster wars, see demonstration oyster dredging, and hear tales of the waterman’s life. The vessel can accommodate 20 adventurers. The two-hour Public Sails are most Saturdays starting Saturday, May 14th through October at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets are $10–30; free admission for children under six. For more information call 410-228-7141 or visit Skipjack-nathan.org.
CASA OFF TO THE RACES
brCASA of the Mid-Shore is Off to the Races on Saturday, May 21st. The premier event of the season, CASA’s signature Preakness party at Hemmersley Farm features gourmet food, specialty cocktails, fun contests, and great entertainment. This event raises funds for CASA’s work with children who are under court protection due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Best of all, you and your friends can experience the thrill of watching the live running of the 141st Preakness Stakes without leaving the Shore. Jumbo television screens situated throughout the elegant tent at the water’s edge will air the race for your viewing enjoyment! Tickets are $150. For more information call 410-822-2866 or visit Casamidshore.org.
MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL IN EASTON
brThe Multicultural Festival in Easton presented by the Avalon Foundation will be Saturday, May 7th 10 a.m.–2 p.m. in Idlewild Park (rain location is Easton Middle School). It is free and open to the public. The festival will present a variety of music and dance acts like Bagpiper Randy Welch, an Indian Dancing Group, and a performance from the Chesapeake Youth Chorale, among other entertainment. Ethnic food will also be a part of the community celebration. For more information call 410-822-0345 or visit Avalonfoundation.org.
SPRING CRUISERS IN BERLIN
brEvery spring you can hear the sounds of roaring classics as they cruise into downtown Berlin. On Saturday, May 21st 10 a.m.–2 p.m. music will fill the streets. Antique shops, galleries, and vintage stores will welcome you. Plus, there will be great food! Main Street is the place to stroll around while enjoying hundreds of brightly colored shiny classic cars of all types ranging from the ’50s to the ’70s during this free event. Vehicle registration is $15. Trophies are awarded at 2 p.m. For more information call 410-641-4775 or visit Berlinchamber.org.
KENT ISLAND DAY
brEach year, Kent Island Day commemorates the founding of Kent Island in 1631 with a parade down Main Street, historic exhibits, displays, activities, food, vendors, costumes, activities for kids, and crafts. This family-friendly event is Saturday, May 21st and starts at 10 a.m. at the Stevensville Pocket Park. The parade begins at 10:30 a.m. at Elementary Way and travels down Main Street. For more information call 410-643-3776 or visit Kentislandheritagesociety.org.
View our Inside & Out: Beauty, Fashion, and Fitness Events for May 2016
Compiled by Melissa Lauren
Photo courtesy of Naptown
barBAYq Festival
NAPTOWN BARBAYQ CONTEST AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
brWhat’s Up? Media is a proud sponsor of The Naptown barBAYq Contest and Music Festival held at the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds in Crownsville. The festival is Friday, May 6th 4–10 p.m. and on Saturday the 7th noon–10 p.m. This family-friendly event features food, libations, continuous live music from two stages, activities for all ages, arts and crafts vendors, and
cooking demonstrations. Money raised by this Annapolis Rotary Club event will be used to fulfill grant requests. Tickets are
$15–20; admission is free for kids 12 and under. For more information call 443-254-1400 or visit barbayq.com.Photo courtesy of Annapolis
Summer Garden Theatre
ANNAPOLIS SUMMER GARDEN THEATRE OPENING SEASON
brThe Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre celebrates 50 years this season! Kicking off the season this month, they’re presenting The Wedding Singer (May 26th–June 18th). Rent opens June 30th and runs through July 23rd. And later in the season The Producers (August 4th–September 4th). Shows take place weekly from Thursday through Sunday at 8:30 p.m. (with some Wednesday shows) and tickets are $22 per show or $56 for the season. For more information call 410-268-9212 or visit Summergarden.com.Photo courtesy of The Maryland
Zoo in Baltimore
BREW AT THE ZOO
brBrew at the Zoo is the annual outdoor festival at The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. Party like an animal on Saturday, May 28th and Sunday, May 29th at the Waterfowl Lake Pavilion from 1 p.m.–7 p.m. daily. This fun, family-friendly event provides unlimited sampling of a diverse assortment of local and national beers and wines, while absorbing some local live music. It’s also the years’ biggest fundraiser for the Zoo, supporting the education, conservation, and animal programs! Tickets are $69. For more information call 410-396-7102 or visit Marylandzoo.org. Photo courtesy of
Joe Bonamassa
CHESAPEAKE BAY BLUES FESTIVAL
brThe Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival is Saturday, May 21st 11 a.m.–9 p.m. and Sunday, May 22nd, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. at Sandy Point State Park. Gates open at 10:30 a.m. Blues greats including Joe Bonamassa (pictured), Canned Heat, John Mayall, Tab Benoit, Heritage Blues Orchestra, Sonny Landreth, Mud Morganfield, Dana Fuchs, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Danielle Nicole, Michael McHenry Tribe, and more will be performing. Proceeds from this event support the nonprofits We Care and Friends, which offers assistance to the homeless and those in need, and Special Love, Inc. helping children with cancer and their families in the Mid-Atlantic region. Tickets are $65–125. For more information call 410-982-0799 or visit Bayblues.org. ANNAPOLIS SYMPHONY FAMILY CONCERTS
brAnnapolis Symphony presents their Family Concert on Saturday, May 14th at 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts. Squeaks, tweets, rattles and honks! Really Inventive Stuff brings you The Professor, a whimsical Austrian sound scientist, who travels the world with his amazing acoustic laboratory but needs your help to complete the melody of Mozart’s The Toy Symphony. Come prepared to play along as the audience becomes the missing instrument. Then Britain’s own Symphonia Semi d’Quaver, the internationally renowned Orchestra-ologist, consummate animateur, and devoted fan of Henry Purcell, will host Benjamin Britten’s classic introduction to the orchestra with wit and a wink. In addition, children and families may “Meet the Musicians” at 1:15 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on the day of Family Concerts. Tickets are $10–15. For more information call 410-263-0907 or visit Annapolissymphony.org. MAY DAY FLOWER BASKETS AND FOUR RIVERS GARDEN CLUB FLOWER MART
brTour historic downtown Annapolis and enjoy all of the May Day Baskets gracing the doors of shops and historic homes, a lovely custom celebrated in Annapolis since Colonial times! If you are a downtown Annapolitan, don’t forget to hang your basket in order to participate in the friendly competition. Members of the Four Rivers Garden Club host the annual May Day Flower Mart in downtown Annapolis in front of the Market House 8 a.m.–2 p.m on May 1st. An assortment of native plants and perennials from members’ gardens as well as herbs, cut flowers, and garden treasures will be offered for sale. May Day baskets will be available for pre-order or for sale the day of the event. A flower-arranging workshop at 9 a.m. will guide the novice in the creation of a May Day basket. The fee for the workshop is $25, which includes supplies. May Day May Flower Mart proceeds support community gardening projects as well as local historic houses and gardens. For more information call 443-995-2993.PREAKNESS
brSee the horses fly outta the gate at the 141st Preakness Saturday, May 21st at Pimlico in Baltimore. Seating options include the Grandstand and Clubhouse section, Infield, the Mug and Vine Lounge in the Infield, and the Turfside Terrace
and Clubhouse Turn reserved seating. Prices vary. For more information call 410-542-9400 or visit Preakness.com. BLUE ANGELS AND UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY COMMISSIONING WEEK
brThe Blue Angels, the graceful group of six blue and gold F/A-18 Hornets will practice over the Severn River Tuesday, May 24th 11 a.m.–1 p.m. with a circle and arrival and a rehearsal at 2 p.m. Their full performance will take place on Wednesday, May 25th at 2 p.m. The squadron will then perform their annual Naval Academy Graduation flyover at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on Friday, May 27th at 10 a.m. For more information visit Blueangels.navy.mil. Take in one of Annapolis’ finest traditions from May 20th–May 27th as the town helps the Midshipmen Class of 2016 celebrate their graduation from the United States Naval Academy. The Plebe Class will climb the Herndon Monument on Monday, May 23rd at 1:30 p.m. signifying their rise to their second year. And the Color Parade will take place at Worden Field on Thursday, May 26th at 11 a.m. Other Commissioning Week events include the Glee Club concerts, awards ceremonies, and more. For more information visit Usna.edu/CommisioningWeek. Photo courtesy of the American
Visionary Art Museum
AMERICAN VISIONARY ART MUSEUM’S 18TH ANNUAL KINETIC SCULPTURE RACE
brFrom the American Visionary Art Museum the Annual Kinetic Sculpture Race is a 15-mile race of wacky, imaginative, totally human-powered works of art, designed to travel on land, through mud, and over deep harbor waters, constructed out of used bicycles, gears, and parts, created by “mad geniuses” who tinker around in the garage or backyard. The machines can be simple, small crafts, piloted by only one brave soul, or they can be more than 50 feet long, extremely well-engineered, sophisticated vehicles powered by a team of pilots a.k.a. “Kinetinauts.” The race starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 7th at the American Visionary Art Museum. The event is free for spectators. For more information call 410-244-1900 or visit Avam.org or KineticBaltimore.com.Photo courtesy of Junior
Marvin’s Wailers
THE NEXTIVAL
brIntroducing the first-ever Nextival Music Festival, presenting music for the masses and fun for kids of all ages! Expect the unexpected at The Nextival on Saturday, May 21st 10 a.m.–10 p.m. at the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds. The event will feature more than 15 food trucks curated by fellow foodies and 10 inflatable entertainment bouncy-houses! Plus, there will be art tables, Legos, face painting, balloon creations, glitter tattoos, and a kids’ music stage with music, magic, and puppet shows all day. The Nextival includes the area’s best local talent and emerging artists. National act Junior Marvin’s Wailers will headline. Other music acts include The Cornerstone, Pressing Strings, Future Elevators, Mend the Hollow, Skribe, Swampcandy, Higher Hands, Dean Rosenthal, Alexander Peters & The Roosters, Dominic Fragman, Gingerwolf, 3rd Grade Friends, Naked Blue, Fast as Lightning, and more! Tickets are $15. Kids 14 and under get in for free! For more information call 800-225-2071 or visit Nextival.com.WINE IN THE WOODS FESTIVAL
brEnjoy wine tasting from local vineyards, live music, and more all in the idyllic setting of Symphony Woods in Columbia. Wine in the Woods will be held on Saturday, May 21st 11 a.m.–6 p.m. and Sunday, May 22nd 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Tickets are $20–35. For more information call 410-313-4700 or visit Wineinthewoods.com.Photo courtesy of First Sunday
Arts Festival
FIRST SUNDAY ARTS FESTIVAL
brThe place to be to check out items crafted by more than 100 local and regional artists and crafters, the First Sunday Arts Festival in Annapolis kicks off its first event of the season series on Sunday, May 1st. The festival is held on Calvert and West streets 11 a.m.–5 p.m. and features live music, as well as dance and street performances. A popular and free event, the festival hosted more than 45,000 people last year, and is not to be missed. Catch it every first Sunday of the month through November. For more information visit Firstsundayarts.comFirstsundayarts.com.SPCA WALK AND RUN FOR ANIMALS
brYour friends at What’s Up? Media double dog dare you to donate to the SPCA! Join the 25th Annual SPCA Walk and Run for the Animals was postponed to Sunday, June 19th at Quiet Waters Park. The 5K Run starts at 8 a.m. and the walk starts at 9 a.m. There is even a Tails and Trails 5K! The benefit event will allow the SPCA to continue its efforts in providing shelter and rehabilitation to companion animals in need and promoting humane care and concern for the animals. To register and for more information call 410-268-4388 or visit aacspca.org.Photo courtesy of the
Bowie Baysox
BOWIE BAYSOX
brRoot for your home team, the Bowie Baysox this season at Prince George’s Stadium. They play home games weekday evenings as well as Fridays and Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and throw out the first pitch on Sundays at home starting at 2 p.m. Prices vary. For schedule information and online ticketing visit baysox.com. Photo by Chris Polk
WALK THE WALK FOUNDATION WALK: ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY KIDS IN NEED BENEFIT
brWalk the Walk Foundation hosts The Walk benefiting Anne Arundel County Kids in Need on Thursday, May 12th 6–8 p.m. at Waugh Chapel Towne Centre in Gambrills. Walk the Walk Foundation exists to serve local, underprivileged children through a Christmas gift program, providing school supplies, and meeting various basic needs. This family-friendly event features kids’ activities, live music, and a beer garden. There will also be prizes for lucky participants. The minimum donation level is $10. For more information call 866-989-3674 visit Wtwf.org.Photo courtesy of Piney
Orchard Street Festival
PINEY ORCHARD STREET FESTIVAL
brThe Seventh Annual Piney Orchard Street Festival is Saturday, May 21st 11 a.m.–6 p.m. This family-friendly event is open
to the public and includes food, crafts, games, a moon bounce, face painting, sand art, a volcano rock wall, a giant slide, pony rides, raffle tables, and more. For more information call 410-672-4273 or visit Pineyorchard.com. WEDNESDAY NIGHT SAILBOAT RACES
brAn Annapolis tradition, Wednesday Night Sailboat Races run through the month of August. The competitions start at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays near the mouth of Spa Creek.The finish draws a crowd along the waterfront at various points of land within the Annapolis Harbor; as many as 125 sailboats have been known to compete at any given time.CAMBRIDGE BEER FESTIVAL
brTake part in the festivities on High Street and celebrate the finest craft brews made regionally at the Cambridge Beer Festival on Saturday, May 14th at 12 p.m. There will also be live music and amazing food. Afterwards, celebrate Second Saturday with late shopping hours, free gallery receptions, dining specials, and more. Prices vary. For more information call 443-247-0843. Photo by Bob Peterson
PAINT ANNAPOLIS
brPaint Annapolis is a five-day juried plein air painting competition held Monday, May 30th–Monday, June 5th with an exhibition of artwork Sunday, June 5th–Sunday, June 12th. For 14 years, Paint Annapolis has been a premier event, bringing people around the world and our city to share in the spirit of outdoor painting. Paint Annapolis features 30 juried artists from around the world for five days of competitive painting. Two painting events will be open to the public, a Nocturne, or night painting, on Tuesday, May 31st and Dueling Brushes, a quick draw competition, on Sunday, June 5th. For more information call 410-268-4566 or visit mdfedart.com.THE 1ST ANNUAL BAY BRIDGE PADDLE
brThe first ever across-the-bay-bridge-not for-the-faint-of-heart Bay Bridge Paddle is Saturday, May 14th at Sandy Point State Park. Whether you’re brand new to paddling or a seasoned veteran, this paddle will have something for paddlers of all skill levels. The 8.4-mile race course will take competitors across the breathtaking Chesapeake Bay and underneath the magnificent Bay Bridge 8–11 a.m. More than $7,000 in prize money will be awarded. There will also be a 5K paddle, as well as a novice slalom course for kids and adults closer to the beach area. The event will benefit many local charities including the Foundation for Community Betterment and the Maryland Special Olympics. Registration is $35–100. For more information call 415-766-7223 or visit Paddleguru.com/races/baybridgepaddle.FINE ARTS AT OXFORD
brThe 32nd annual Fine Arts at Oxford juried exhibition and sale will take place Saturday, May 21st 10 a.m.–5 p.m. through Sunday, May 22nd 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at Oxford Community Center. Juried exhibitors will be on hand to display and sell their works. The weekend includes demonstrations and a raffle. Lunch will be available. Tickets are $5. For more information call 410-226-5904 or visit Oxfordcc.org.Photo courtesy of
Chestertown Tea Party
CHESTERTOWN TEA PARTY
brThe Chestertown Tea Party Festival celebrates colonial resistance to British rule with historical happenings during the weekend of Friday, May 27th through the 29th. In response to British Parliament’s closing of the port of Boston, the citizens of Chestertown, Maryland, met in May of 1774 and set forth “Resolves” forbidding importing, selling, or consuming tea in Chestertown. According to local legend, residents then gathered at the town center, marched down High Street to the brigantine Geddes, which was anchored in the Chester River, and tossed her cargo of tea overboard. The annual reenactment is the centerpiece of the Chestertown Tea Party Festival and takes place at 2 p.m. on Saturday. All Festival events take place along the Chester River and in the historic district of 18th-century Chestertown. Festivities include: the Colonial Parade, Street Party, Raft Race, street performances, colonial crafts, musicians, a 5K and 10K run, and more. The Wine and Craft Beer Tasting is Sunday at Wilmer Park noon–4 p.m. featuring local Maryland wineries and brewers. For more information visit Chestertownteaparty.com.24TH ANNUAL SOFT SHELL SPRING FAIR
brThe 24th Annual Soft Shell Spring Fair is Sunday, May 29th noon–5 p.m. at Crisfield City Dock. This delicious event features soft crabs and seafood of all kinds, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, demonstrations, entertainment, and more. For more information call 410-968-2500 or visit Crisfieldchamber.com. CHESAPEAKE BAY MARITIME MUSEUM LIGHTHOUSE OVERNIGHT ADVENTURES
brThe Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum hosts Lighthouse Overnight Adventures on select Fridays and Saturdays now through June. Under the guidance of a museum educator, youth groups and their chaperones can travel back in time to explore the life of a late 19th century lighthouse keeper, all while spending the night in the historic 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse. Tickets are $40, which include: one overnight stay in the lighthouse, a dedicated museum facilitator, the cost of program activities, two days admission to the museum, and a souvenir patch. For more information call 410-745-4947 or visit Cbmm.org.SAIL ON SKIPJACK NATHAN OF DORCHESTER
brThe Chesapeake Bay skipjack Nathan of Dorchester offers unique sails on the beautiful Choptank River out of Long Wharf in Cambridge. The Nathan was commissioned July 4, 1994, built by volunteers to preserve the wooden boat building skills and maritime heritage of the region. Learn about the oyster wars, see demonstration oyster dredging, and hear tales of the waterman’s life. The vessel can accommodate 20 adventurers. The two-hour Public Sails are most Saturdays starting Saturday, May 14th through October at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets are $10–30; free admission for children under six. For more information call 410-228-7141 or visit Skipjack-nathan.org.Photo by Karen A. Dixon
