The ‘John Waters: Pope of Trash’ exhibit may have ended in Los Angeles, but part of it lives on in the form of a new line of fashion, gifts and other merchandise similar to what visitors could purchase at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.

Waters is also dropping a new single with a canine-theme, displaying his visual art in San Francisco, and releasing the details of his coast-to-coast Christmas tour that starts Dec. 1.

The fashion line is a collaboration of Waters, visual artist and musician Seth Bogart and online retail store wackywacko.com. It features a mélange of “filthy’ references to Waters’ highbrow/underground aesthetic and Bogart’s distinctive etchings, including long- and short-sleeve tee shirts; crewnecks, hats, buttons, enamel pins, backpacks, tote bags, bathmats, hand towels and, of course, the popular ‘He’ll Make You Sick!’ barf bags.

Bogart and Waters first met eight years ago at Mosswood Meltdown, a punk music festival that Waters hosts every year and where Bogart performs with his band, Hunx & His Punks. Waters is known for films such as Pink Flamingos, Hairspray and Serial Mom. Bogart has shown his artwork at the Jeffrey Deitch Gallery; MoCA; the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, among others. They joined forces in 2023 to create a collection of merchandise for sale in the pop-up gift shop at the Academy Museum, and many of the items repeatedly sold out during the 11-month run of the ‘Pope of Trash’ exhibit, which closed in August.

“I don’t know whether to call the line “norm-core for nutcases” or “hate-couture,” but Seth has captured my smutty sartorial splendor and given a whole new meaning to the term ‘rag trade,’ ” Waters said in announcing the collaboration.  

Wacky Wacko is Bogart’s art and fashion store, which features an array of products in a camp-meets-punk style. The new John Waters line goes on sale Oct. 23 at 9 a.m. Pacific Standard Time at www.wackywacko.com. The collaborators say that a “select line” of retail partners will be announced soon.

The Singing Dogs

On Nov. 8, Waters and Sub Pop will release a Christmas single entitled ‘Jingle Bells/It’s a Punk Rock Christmas.’

The A-side features a ‘howling’ parody version of The Singing Dogs’ iconic “Jingle Bells” single, with Waters covering the song. The B-side, ‘It’s a Punk Rock Christmas,’ is a raunchy, spoken-word yarn about the lack of the punk rock spirit during the Christmas holidays.

The single was produced by Grammy-winner Ian Brennan, who produced Waters’ three previous singles. “In producing John’s annual Christmas tour for over 20 years, it seemed almost negligent that he didn’t have a Christmas record,” Brennan said.  “Everyone from U2 to Justin Bieber to William Shatner to Bob Dylan does, and John’s wit couldn’t be a more fitting cheer for the annual holiday music canon.”

The cost is $9, and Sub Pop is taking pre-orders at Sub Pop Mega Mart. Arf! Arf! Arf!

‘Worst of Waters’

“John Waters: The Worst of Waters,” is an exhibit of Waters’ visual art work that opened in September at the Rena Bransten Gallery, 1275 Minnesota St. in San Francisco, and runs through Nov. 16. The subtitle is: “Works never before exhibited in San Francisco: the rudest, the hardest to sell, the just plain wrong.” Waters had a show with a similar theme at C. Grimaldis Gallery in Baltimore in 2022.

Tour dates

Tour dates for Waters’ Christmas shows are: Dec. 1: The Rio Theatre in Santa  Cruz, Ca.; the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco, Ca.; Dec. 3 and 4 at the Neptune Theatre in Seattle, Wash.; Dec. 5 and 6 at the Aladdin Theatre in Portland, Ore.; Dec. 7 at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood, Ca.; and Dec. 8 and 9 at Lou Lou’s Jungle Room in San Diego, Ca.

Also, Dec. 13 and 14 at Ludlow Garage in Cincinnati, Oh.; Dec. 15 at the City Winery in New York; Dec. 17 at Union Transfer in Philadelphia, Pa.; Dec. 18 at Birchmere Music Hall in Alexandria, Va. and Dec. 19 at Baltimore Soundstage in Baltimore, Md.

Waters also has a pre-holiday performance of his “Naked Truth” show on Nov. 2 at The Parkway in Minneapolis.

Christmas Village in Baltimore, the German-style holiday market that draws crowds to the west shore of the Inner Harbor, is returning next month.

“Christmas Village in Baltimore will be back at the Inner Harbor from Nov. 23 to Dec. 24, 2024!” organizers announced on Instagram and Facebook. “Who’s ready for the most magical time of the year in Baltimore?”

According to the event’s organizers, German American Marketing Inc., the market will feature more than 60 local and international vendors, including Kaethe Wohlfahrt, a well-known source of handcrafted ornaments and gifts.

Returning food favorites include Bratwurst and vegan Brat, Raclette cheese, schnitzel, latkes, bacon on a stick and crepes. There will be imported German Gluhwein (mulled wine) with new flavors and themed weekends with live performances, family-friendly activities and appearances by Gingy the Gingerbread Man.

Nov. 23 and 24 will be Preview Weekend, and the market will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays except for Dec. 23 and 24, and on Nov. 27. It will be open on Thanksgiving (Nov. 28) and Christmas Eve from noon to 5 p.m. Non-holiday hours will be from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and from noon to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. All-day visitor parking will be available for $15 at the Harbor Court Garage, 30 E. Lee St.

In 2019, Baltimore’s Board of Estimates approved a license agreement that gave German American Marketing the right that year to use a portion of West Shore Park, the city-owned property between the Baltimore Visitor Center at 401 Light Street and the Maryland Science Center. The 2019 agreement gave the organizers an option to renew the license five times.

The market wasn’t held in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it returned in 2021, 2022 and 2023. On August 21, the Board of Estimates approved the fourth renewal of the license, which starts Nov. 11 for set-up and ends Dec. 31. It requires German American Marketing to pay the city $41,500.00, including $14,000 for an electrical services fee, $15,000 for a security deposit and $12,500 for a license fee, and to complete “breakdown and clean-up after the Event” no later than Dec. 31. That’s when crowds will gather for the next big event at the harbor – Baltimore’s New Year’s Eve celebration.

More information about Christmas Village in Baltimore is available at baltimore-christmas.com and on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, @bmorechristmas.

Neighbors who are waiting for Eddie’s of Mount Vernon grocery store to reopen are going to have to wait a little longer.

Attorney Stephan Fogleman told Baltimore’s liquor board on Thursday that a new operator has encountered funding and construction delays and is behind schedule on reopening the store at 7 to 11 W. Eager St. – a much-anticipated event that was originally targeted for last summer.

He asked that the three-member panel approve a request from his client, Kabita D. Mahat of Gaurika LLC, to grant a 90-day “hardship extension” to transfer a “Class A” Beer, Wine and Liquor license that was approved on March 21, 2024.

The liquor board’s approval stipulated that the transfer take place within 180 days, which put the deadline at September 18. In seeking a transfer extension on behalf of his client, Fogelman blamed the state of Maryland for being slow in sending money that was granted last spring. He also said the operator has experienced construction delays and had to change contractors.

“They applied for a grant from the state, the state trying to encourage grocery stores in communities,” Fogleman said. “Apparently, I guess this was the first time getting a grant approved because the money takes longer than one might think if you were a first-timer. Nevertheless, they have had construction delays, a change of contractor, and then the delay in getting the approval and reimbursement from the state under this grant.”

Eddie’s has been closed since June 30, 2023, when previous store owner Dennis Zorn ceased operations after running it since 2000. The property, owned by 13 West Eager LLC, has housed a grocery store since 1939. The closing left Mount Vernon residents without a full-service food market in their community, and a search was launched for a new operator. Last February, The Baltimore Sun ran a front-page article by Amanda Yeager detailing plans by the new operator to renovate the 5,000-square-foot space and reopen it for continued use as a grocery store.

Eddie’s of Mount Vernon is one of the few grocery stores in Baltimore that has a “Class A” license that allows it to sell beer, wine and liquor for off-premises consumption, and the new operator applied to transfer that license to sell alcoholic beverages when the store reopens.

When the new operator was announced, community leaders said they were optimistic that the store might be ready by July 1 or shortly afterwards, but months have now gone by without an opening. Fogleman’s appearance at the liquor board shed light on some of the reasons for the delay.

In a Sept. 4 letter to the liquor board requesting a transfer extension, Fogleman did not discuss the funding or construction delays, saying only that “the applicant needs more time to finish inspections.”

At the hearing on Thursday, Fogleman gave no projection for when the store might reopen, and the commissioners didn’t ask. They nevertheless approved his request for the hardship extension, which gives Gaurika until Dec. 17 to finish renovations and complete the transfer.

Looking for some grown-up spooky fun? Do you want less pumpkin and more spice? There are so many ghoulish activities to put you on the edge of your feet! Check out the list below for just a few of the many things to help you get into the spirit of (after)life!

FELLS POINT HAUNTED PUBWALK
Fridays and Saturdays, 6 p.m., through end of November
$26 per person (21+)

In Fells Point, combine your love of all things haunted with all things sudsy on the Fells Point Haunted Pubwalk. You’ll visit some of Fells Point’s most haunted pubs. Sidle up to the bar and see if you feel the presence of lost maritime souls from years past. This tour is for people 21 and older, and leaves from Fells Point Square, near Max’s Taphouse at 733 S. Broadway, Baltimore, MD. These tours sell out early, so get tickets now, if not sooner!

MOUNT VERNON GHOST WALK

October 12, 25, 26 (8 p.m. all days)

Tickets cost $18

A tour guide will show you around Mount Vernon as they share stories about the ghosts of the Belvedere, a séance gone wrong, and more. Peer into the past and learn who continues to haunt the present in this fascinating ghost walk.

WESTMINSTER HALL AND BURYING GROUND
Open Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
No cost (except on Halloween night)

What’s more fitting during spooky season than a cemetery? Make that the cemetery of Edgar Allan Poe, the Baltimore-buried author of terrifying tales, and you have quite the potential for spine-tingling shenanigans. His death is still a mystery. In October 1849 he was found delirious in Fells Point and wearing someone else’s clothing. He died days later and was buried at Westminster Hall and Burying Ground. Visitors leave flasks of Cognac, coins, and flowers.

On Halloween, you can hear music on a pipe organ and watch a dramatic performance of “The Tell-Tale Heart.” There is even the rare opportunity to tour Poe’s grave and the Westminster Hall catacombs, along with other activities. This activity takes place on Thursday, Oct. 31 from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. at the Westminster Hall and Burying Ground, 519 W. Fayette St., Baltimore, MD. Tickets are $5 for adults, and children under 4 are free. Parental discretion is advised.

NEVERMORE HAUNT 2024
13 Nights in October (see calendar)
Ticket prices range from $30-$67

Staying with the Poe theme, The Nevermore Haunt is among the highest-rated haunted houses in Maryland. The website touts over-the-top and bizarre performances nightly, an on-site bar and concessions, and a terrifying haunted house that will strike deep into the depths of your darkest fears. But with a Baltimore theme, hon! “Expertly crafted, The Nevermore Haunt is an ever-changing and developing Halloween attraction that transports you directly into sordid, macabre visions of Baltimore’s past,” reads the website, where you can find the calendar for dates, and tickets. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by a parent.

HAUNTED ELLLICOTT CITY MAIN STREET GHOST TOUR
Saturday nights through October
Tickets cost $20, discounts for military, students, seniors

Ellicott City is 250 years old, and the buildings on Main Street have secrets. Did you know that at one point there were four funeral homes on that tiny stretch of town? Just on Main Street! Founded by early Quakers, Civil War Troops, railroad workers, soldiers from both World Wars have traveled through the town thanks especially to the B&O Railroad at the bottom of the hill. Shop owners and customers swear they co-exist and encounter spirits from the past, and the period-costumed tour guides will give you all the spine-chilling details. Tours begin at the Howard County Welcome Center at 8267 Main Street, Ellicott City, MD. They run from 8:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. (tour end time is approximate). This tour is recommended for ages 12 and above, and tickets must be purchased in advance.

LAUREL’S HOUSE OF HORROR
October through Nov. 2
Tickets range from $34.95 to $39.95

Walking around an old movie theater can be spooky enough, but Laurel’s House of Horror takes it to epic levels. This terrifying attraction is in a historic theater, verified by Chesapeake Ghost Hunters to have signs of “other-worldly activity.” Its 28,000 square feet promise sensory overload, chilling anticipation, and plenty of jump scares. The House of Horror has been around for 10 creepy years, guaranteeing quality fright nights. It also has escape rooms based on iconic horror movies like “Insidious,” “Scream,” “Blaire Witch,” “Beetlejuice,” and more. Some even include a live actor to “enhance” your experience! Escape rooms experiences run approximately 45-50 minutes in length, and since it’s a timed activity, Laurel’s House of Horror asks guests to arrive 15 minutes prior to their appointed time.

COLT’S TRAIL OF TERROR
October 12, 19, 25
Free admission

This over three-hour-long tour takes you on a twisted trail through haunted woods, promising frights around every corner! That’s a long time to be terrified, but not only is the price right, guests have the chance to help a great cause. Donations are accepted, and all donations will go to Tunnels to Towers and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Colt’s Trail of Terror is located at 9207 Stone Spring Lane, Pasadena, MD. Reserve your ticket here.

DEAD OF NIGHT PARANORMAL TOUR
October 26, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Tickets cost $28.52

It may be The Harford County 4-H Camp and Deer Creek Overlook by day, but get ready to explore the supernatural in the dead of night! Paranormal Tours promises a thrilling journey through haunted spots, hair-raising graveyards, and mysterious landmarks. Don’t be surprised if you encounter a spirit from beyond the grave during this dark, eerie walk through the haunted woods! It looks so harmless during the day, doesn’t it? Located at 6 Cherry Hill Road, Street, MD. Tickets available by clicking this link.

Check out some additional bone-chilling attractions by clicking this link.

Two retailers are opening in The Village of Cross Keys this week: Ruxton Mercantile and Bluemercury.

Ruxton Mercantile is scheduled to open at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3. Like the original location at 7625 Bellona Ave. in Ruxton, the modern general store in Cross Keys will feature housewares, accessories, men’s and women’s apparel, gifts, and apothecary and wellness products. It’s located in the Village Square courtyard along the east breezeway, across from Cece’s Roland Park’s outdoor dining area.

Bluemercury, a retailer of hair, makeup and skincare products, will open its only Baltimore-area location with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 4.  Its store is next to the main entrance to the Village Shops in the mixed-use community at 5100 Falls Road.

With locations across the country, Bluemercury pioneered a client-first service model that emphasizes “hyper-personalized, high-quality beauty interactions” and features “a highly curated and premium product assortment across a range of beauty categories.”

After the ribbon cutting, the first 120 shoppers who spend more than $250 at Bluemercury will receive a grand opening Gift with Purchase, valued at more than $300. According to the retailer, the gift is “inclusive of cult-favorite brands such as M-61 Skincare, Lune+Aster, Oribe, Sisley-Paris, 111Skin, Augustinus Bader, Briogeo, Obagi, SkinMedica and NEST (available while supplies last).”

“We could not be more thrilled that these two stores are opening at Cross Keys,” said Arsh Mirmiran, the principal at Caves Valley Partners who is leading the redevelopment of Cross Keys, in a statement. “Bluemercury and Ruxton Mercantile join ZaVino Italian Marketplace as the latest in an expanding list of retailers and restaurants that have opened at Cross Keys, catering to our growing customer base.  We continue to expand our offerings and look forward to the upcoming openings of California Closets and Kneads Bakeshop this fall, along with Atlas Restaurant Group’s Chinese concept and the family-oriented Sol Oaxaca Mexican restaurant in the early spring.”

The season’s final Baltimore by Baltimore festival’s theme is “Voting is a Vibe,” and the event takes place on Oct. 6.

The Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore is partnering with voter advocacy groups Black Girls Vote and Baltimore Votes to celebrate the power and impact of using one’s voice during this election season.

The musical lineup for the October festival includes DJ Quicksilva; Rufus Roundtree and Da B’more Brass Factory; TheVibe Band; Trinidad & Tobago Baltimore Steel Orchestra; Top 5 featuring Baltimore’s own Isaac Johnson; and more.

Community and advocacy groups will also be on hand to educate and engage festivalgoers, including Interfaith Power and Light, Young Gifted and Green, Baltimore City Public Schools, and more.

Vendors and makers will be at the festival for attendees to enjoy shopping and getting to know the creators that make Baltimore great. They include Love More Bmore, Pottillo & Co, The Historian Threads, Five O’ Clock Co, Holmes Hydration, and From Baltimore with Love. Naturally there will be food and drinks available from local vendors, like soul food from Waiting to Oxtail, seafood from Fishnet, ice cream from Taharka Brothers, drinks from Bar Movement, and more.

Some of the activity times are as follows:

• 12:15 p.m.: I Run, But I Vote Tew! (Baltimore runners meet-up hosted by Big Fred, Mr. Jay Hill, & Riot Squad Running)
• 2 p.m.: I Ride, But I Vote Tew! (Baltimore Bike Party meet-up)
• 3 p.m.: A Voting Conversation with Black Girls Vote and Baltimore Votes
• 4 p.m.: DJ Protocol and Chey Parker
• 6 p.m.: Top 5 Band featuring Isaac Johnson

For the full schedule, list of performers, artists, makers, and vendors, click this link.

Baltimore by Baltimore is a series of monthly festivals that run every year from June to October on the first Saturday of each month (though this month’s event will take place Sunday). Organized by Waterfront Partnership, the series began in 2022, with the Inner Harbor serving as the backdrop for Baltimore’s leading artists, makers, creatives, and musicians showcasing the city’s diversity and talent.

“[E]ach festival features a different local producer who selects the best representation of artists and makers in their network to curate a one-of-a-kind experience that fills the Inner Harbor with locally produced goods, music, art and food, and amplifies the vibrant and inspiring arts and culture community from across the entire city,” reads the press release.

Baltimore by Baltimore will offer discounted parking at Harborplace Premium Parking Garage at 101 S. Calvert St. Use the app or book online for garage 2331. Guests/visitors will use the code “BXB24” for $10 parking for up to 12 hours.

“Voting is a Vibe” Baltimore by Baltimore festival takes place on Sunday, Oct. 6 from noon – 7 p.m. at the Inner Harbor Amphitheater. The address is 201 E. Pratt St., Baltimore, MD. The festival is free and open to the public.

This year’s Maryland Fall Home & Garden + Craft Show promises to be huge, held on Oct. 18-20 at the Cow Palace of the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium. Get inspiration and expert advice at this annual showcase of everything anyone could need for repairs, renovation, and relaxation.

There will be more than 300 exhibitors and home professionals on hand to offer tips and products for any home projects, both indoor and outdoor. There will be show-only discounts available only to attendees.

The Craft Hall will have more than 100 artisans offering their one-of-a-kind handmade treasures for holiday gifting. The Outdoor Oasis is where visitors can draw inspiration from top local designers for how to turn outdoor spaces into beautiful extensions of home and a perfectly relaxing retreat.

There will be plenty of activities for families and kids of all ages, like animal encounters with goats, sheep, rabbits, mini donkeys, mini cows, and chickens! Cornhole games and building bricks will provide more fun, and there will even be a full-size, regulation pickleball court with expert players helping newbies learn how to play.

On Friday and Saturday of the weekend show, visitors can meet Ashley Morrill and Ryan Eldridge of Maine Cabin Masters TV show and learn about their favorite projects. Attendees can also get tips and tricks of the trades from the many other local makers and DIYers at the Baltimore Maker’s Showcase.

Don’t worry about going hungry, either. More than three dozen exhibitors, including many local gourmet food vendors, will be enticing visitors with everything from pickles to popcorn, seasonings to sauces, and cheeses to chocolates.

The Maryland Fall Home & Garden + Craft Show is on Friday – Sunday, Oct. 18-20, 2024, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day.

Ticket prices are as follows:

• Children 5 and under: Free
• Children 6 – 12: $3
• Seniors (65+): $7 at the door; $5 online
• Adults: $9 at the door; $7 online

Special free admission will cover people with the CharmPass app, a Light Rail ticket, or a Rail Link ticket. Others receiving special free admission include all active and retired military personnel, veterans, firefighters, and police officers with valid ID.

On Friday and Saturday, people who arrive after 4 p.m. will have a discounted admission of $4. Sunday is Ravens Fan Sunday, and attendees wearing Ravens attire will receive a discounted admission of $5.

To purchase tickets, click this link.

The Maryland State Fairgrounds Cow Palace is located at 2200 York Road, Timonium, MD.

A vintage and handmade shop called The Charmers Club will move into the dining spot formerly occupied by Charmington’s in Remington.

Seawall, the developer that owns Miller’s Court, the building that housed Charmington’s, announced in a newsletter that Charmers Club owners Lindsay Street and Rebecca Madariaga have leased the space at 2601 N. Howard Street where Charmington’s closed last December after 13 years of operation.

This will be the first permanent location for The Charmers Club, which has hosted pop-up market events at various sites around the area, including Waverly Brewing Co., Ministry of Brewing, The Royal Blue, Guilford Hall Brewery, Mt. Royal Soaps and Heavy Seas brewery.

“The Charmers Club has been on the Baltimore scene since 2022 officially, but its founders have been slinging vintage and handmade goods across the city for years,” Seawall said in its newsletter. “They offer unique goods from local Baltimore small businesses along with handpicked vintage items. At their first permanent location, they will carry clothing, accessories, jewelry, home décor, furniture, paper goods and more. They will also continue to host artisan market events and workshops across the city.”

On their website, charmersclub.com, Street and Madariaga describe The Charmers Club as a local community organization focused on supporting small and micro businesses in Baltimore. Its slogan is: ‘Connecting you to Baltimore’s best makers & shakers.’

“Our goal is to provide local small businesses with opportunities for exposure and visibility through pop up markets and events,” their website states. “We also hope to provide a positive and supportive environment to lift up other creatives…We specifically curate markets with a mix of vendors, carefully selecting small businesses with a focus on diversity in all forms.”  

Open daily for breakfast and lunch, Charmington’s served coffee, sandwiches, salads, soups and pastries. It was thrust in the national spotlight when then-President Barack Obama stopped in for coffee during a visit to Baltimore in 2015. According to Seawall, the new tenants expect to open in October. The shop will be run solely by Street, of Yes Please Vintage. Madariaga, of Charm City Threads, will be a contributing vendor. More information is available on Instagram, @thecharmersclub.

Buy, sell, trade, and repair guitar shop Galactic Guitar Exchange opened this month at 1133 Light St. in Federal Hill. Galactic Guitar Exchange relocated from Joppatowne and fills a vacant space that was previously Minuteman Press.

Owner Ryan Ellis started Galactic Guitar Exchange three years ago at the Joppa Grand Market. Ellis has a background in jazz music and plays standup bass and guitar.

Read more at SouthBmore.

More adorable than your typical career fair. Less annoying than Baby Shark. Is it… Baby Shark Tank?

The Baltimore Museum of Industry (BMI) will host the 8^th annual Baltimore Children’s Business Fair on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Entrepreneurs who just happen to be ages 6 – 15, and who have created a brand for their own product or service and developed a marketing strategy, will showcase their businesses for customers at this one-day marketplace.

“The museum celebrates labor and innovation, and is uniquely poised to host this program.  We hope the business leaders of tomorrow find inspiration among the stories in our galleries they see here today,” says Brianne Mobley, Public Engagement Manager at the Baltimore Museum of Industry. 

Museum admission is free on Oct. 5 with registration for the Baltimore Children’s Business Fair. The link for registration is here. Visitors are encouraged to use funds they would have used for museum admission to support these new business ventures! Come ready to shop and bring cash!

“This is an amazing program, and the BMI is honored to host it every year,” said Claire Mullins, director of marketing and communications for BMI. “These kids are truly remarkable — they come in with fully developed business concepts, marketing plans, and tangible goods. The museum chooses to waive admission that day so visitors will spend freely in support of these entrepreneurs, and we hope it entices families to visit and be inspired by what kids can do!”

The Baltimore Children’s Business Fair is a nonprofit organization with a mission to inspire and develop young entrepreneurs in and around the Baltimore area, through workshops, camps, expos, and this annual marketplace. The young creators are responsible for their booth setup, sales, and interactions with customers.

Last year’s Children’s Business Fair yielded young bakers, clothing manufacturers, healthy drinks sales, jewelry, photography, toymakers, and so much more.

The Baltimore Children’s Business Fair is free, as is on-site parking. Register for the fair, which gives attendees free admission to the rest of the Baltimore Museum of Industry, by clicking this link.

Baltimore Museum of Industry is located at 1415 Key Highway, Baltimore, MD.

Kneads Bakeshop & Café is opening a new location of their bakeshop, café, and coffee shop in Canton at The Shops at Canton Crossing in coming months.

The 2,000-square-foot space will be located at 3601 Boston St. after undergoing minor improvements, including paint, marble tile flooring, boho light fixtures, and new furniture, fixtures, and equipment to freshen up the space. The menu will closely resemble that of Kneads’ Harbor East location, including most of the breakfast, lunch, and baked goods. Post-opening, they plan to add a liquor license to serve brunch cocktails and their famous espresso martini.

“When we heard the space was available, we jumped right on it,” said Kira Paterakis, co-owner of Kneads. “It was a pleasure to work with the Sapperstein family. We can’t wait to meet our Canton customers and be the new daytime “hang out” spot. After COVID, we find that people are sick of working from home. We encourage those with remote jobs to bring their laptops and stay a while.”

This will be Kneads’ 4^th location in Baltimore, after their flagship Harbor East location, Locust Point, and the Cross Keys location set to open this winter. The bakeshop and café will offer catering for corporate functions and private events, in addition to wholesale services supplying fresh artisan breads and pastries to Maryland restaurants and hotels delivered every morning.

“A Canton location will allow us to serve all loyal customers throughout Baltimore City in a timely manner,” said Adam Paterakis, co-owner of Kneads. “Guests can enjoy a wide selection of Kneads’ favorites and our popular Aveley Farms coffee and Wright Tea blends. Come for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or a pastry made fresh that morning.”

The new Canton location of Kneads Bakeshop & Café is expected to be open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For questions, hiring inquiries, or placing custom orders, email this link.

The York Road Improvement District is sponsoring a free arts and music festival for attendees of all ages on Oct. 19.

The inaugural York Road Music and Arts Festival will celebrate community and culture with a blend of world music and eclectic sounds. There will be performances by Easy Star All Stars, Freedom Enterprise, Noah Pierre Band, and more.

Attendees can explore a variety of local food, drink, and craft vendors, spotlighting the diversity of Baltimore’s culinary and artisanal scene.

“We are thrilled to launch the York Road Free Music and Arts Festival as a celebration of the vibrant spirit and rich diversity of Greater Govans,” said Sam Storey, executive director of the York Road Improvement District, in a statement. “This festival is not just about great music and delicious food; it’s a testament to the incredible culture and creativity that make our communities unique. We look forward to coming together with residents and visitors to enjoy everything York Road has to offer.”

The festival is the first major event the York Road Improvement District has sponsored. The organization was approved by nearby businesses in 2023, and since then has been working on initiatives to improve public safety, the neighborhood’s appearance, growth, and investment.

“We have implemented a Clean and Green program that has already brought a brighter streetscape to York Road, and we will soon unveil some upgraded facades that we are funding with the help of Loyola University Maryland, the Small Business Administration and Baltimore Development Corporation,” Storey said. “We have also been approved for grant funding from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development to provide financial incentives to lease several vacant properties, and a pilot program to establish a system of security cameras is in the works. In total–York Road is on the rise with growing support, and we can’t wait to celebrate it with the rest of Baltimore.”

The York Road Music and Arts Festival takes place on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the corner of York Road and Woodbourne Avenue. Woodbourne Avenue will be closed to traffic during the festival.

The festival is free and open to people of all ages. For more information, visit their Eventbrite link or the organization’s Facebook page.

The historic Hollins Market is reopening after a $2.1 million renovation, with a public grand opening celebration planned for Saturday.

Phase II of renovations began in May 2023 and included the reconstruction of seven stalls in the market shed. Hollins Market is also adding a grocery store piloted by Baltimore Public Markets Corporation to meet community demand for dry goods, pantry staples like spices, and basic household items like paper goods and more.

“Until we closed in May of 2023, Hollins Market had been operating under capacity for years with just five stalls,” said Paul Ruppert, President & CEO of Baltimore Public Markets Corporation, in a statement. “The amount of fresh food offered had decreased and as one of the oldest public market buildings, was in need of repair and updates. Two years of research with community stakeholders has helped informed the product offerings and merchants to be featured. As with Lexington Market, we were very intentional to ensure this was a market built for and by the community.”

There will also be a new pop-up stall featuring a rotation of vendors to support emerging entrepreneurs of color by providing the space and audience to test a concept before opening a permanent stall. The pop-up stall will be supported with funding from West Baltimore Renaissance Foundation.

Saturday’s grand opening celebration will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visitors can enjoy live music and a 10% discount at the grocery stall.

Hollins Market has served the community since 1836. It is one of six public markets in Baltimore — the only public market system in the United States. The buildings are owned by Baltimore City but managed by Baltimore Public Markets Corporation (BPMC). BPMC is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to bring healthy foods to neighborhoods across the city of Baltimore.

“Hollins Market is the heart of the business district and our community,” said Laura Dykes, president of the Hollins Roundhouse Association, in a statement. “Many of our community members don’t drive so access to meals and a grocery is critical. The new pop-up stall is particularly exciting to give small businesses that chance to get started and eventually move into brick and mortar space in the district. The renovation includes a new community space at the market where we can play chess and watch movies which is exciting.”

New stalls will include a butcher (Lauman’s Meats), seafood (Freshly Seafood), poultry (K’s Chicken), bakery (MikksKakes), and international food (run by Chef Maynard McMillan, owner of Nafasi). Freshly Seafood, MikksKakes, and Nafasi are Black-owned businesses.

 “Hollins Market is located in a food access priority area – a USDA-designated food desert. We are very excited and proud that five of our stalls will offer fresh food from SNAP eligible merchants. Hollins Market will be a one-stop shop for your grocery needs,” Ruppert said.

SNAP-eligible merchants have produce or grocery staples account for 50% of their offerings. BPMC has a food equity manager to help merchants apply for SNAP eligibility and other programs that provide food access, like WIC and bread coin. They also have a market development manager to help merchants build concepts and business plans, along with finding access to resources they need to be successful.

“As we celebrate the reopening of historic Hollins Market, we are doing more than unveiling a newly renovated space — we are reaffirming our commitment to building a more equitable Baltimore,” Mayor Brandon Scott said. “Hollins Market stands as a testament to the power of investing in our neighborhoods and ensuring that every resident has access to fresh, healthy food and economic opportunities. This market, designed with input from the community, is a place where local entrepreneurs, particularly entrepreneurs of color, can thrive. It is a space for everyone, where West Baltimore’s rich culture is honored and preserved. I am proud of this project and excited to see Hollins Market serve as a beacon of equity, sustainability, and community for generations to come.”

Hollins Market is located at 26 S. Arlington Ave., Baltimore, MD.

Second Chance, the Carroll-Camden Industrial Area-based nonprofit that has an architectural salvage and antique store, a deconstruction company, and a workforce development program, has purchased two additional buildings in the area to expand its store. Second Chance’s current store, offices, and classroom are at 1700 Ridgely St. It acquired 1300 W. Hamburg St. and 1025 W. Ostend to add a second store.

1025 W. Ostend St. is a 96,530 sq. ft. building on 134,949 sq. ft. of land that borders the Pigtown neighborhood. It was formerly the home of Indusco. A Maryland cannabis company was planning to move into the building and began demolition, but the deal fell through.

Read more at SouthBmore.

White Marsh Mall has announced they are bringing back their Fall Harvest in celebration of the new season, promising fun for the entire family.

Fall Harvest 2024 will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and will be located inside the mall near Macy’s Home Store and outside the lower-level mall entrance between Boscov and JCPenny’s.

The day will be filled with activities including inflatables, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, and more. There will also be food trucks to take care of the appetites built up during all that fun.

Groove to live jazz music all day long in between bouncing and playing on the inflatables. Explore creative booths and make your own seasonal crafts as well.

To secure your free tickets to this event, click this link. For more information about new stores, special promotions, and other events at White Marsh Mall, please click this link.

White Marsh Mall is located at 8200 Perry Hall Boulevard, Baltimore, MD.