The Harbor Harvest Children’s Fall Festival will return for its 17th year on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rash Field Park. Families are invited to enjoy pumpkins, pony rides, and a petting zoo while dressed in their favorite Halloween costumes for a day filled with fall festivities.

Children can explore a pumpkin patch; dive into hay piles; and, for a small fee, enjoy pony rides, petting zoo animals, a trackless train, and carnival rides. There will be a pie-baking contest, and participants will compete for both the People’s Choice Award and the Judge’s Choice Award.

Enjoy the costume contest, where participants can win ribbons and prizes, and get some great exercise with a fun climb at Rash Field’s Adventure Park or enjoy the scenes at the BGE Nature Park!

Local food vendors will be on-site for the event.

Admission to the festival is free, and select activities like pumpkins, pumpkin decorating, fall crafts, and more are included at no cost.

With the purchase of a Harbor Harvest Children’s Pass, attendees can enjoy additional activities, such as mechanical rides, pony rides, a trackless train, and other attractions. The Children’s Pass is available in advance for $12 or at the event for $15.

For those interested in specific activities, individual tickets can be purchased on the day of the event for $3 each. Participation in the pie baking contest is free, with advance registration available on Eventbrite. For the costume contest, sign-ups will take place on the day of the event.

Rash Field Park is located at the Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MD 21230.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit this link.

In the event of inclement weather, all proceeds will go towards children’s programming at Rash Field Park. All Children’s Pass items (pumpkin, pumpkin decorating, and fall craft) will be available to pick up at a determined date.

It’s the final weekend before Halloween, so spooky season is in full swing in Baltimore.

From the 25th annual Great Halloween Lantern Parade to Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” performed by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, embrace some frightful fun.

Check it all out in our weekend events roundup:

ArBOOretum, Thursday, Oct. 24, 5 p.m., Cylburn Arboretum. Go on guided moonlit nature walks, explore spooky trails, and enjoy Halloween decorations at the Cylburn mansion. While this is a candy-free event to prevent litter, there is plenty of fun to be had.

Trixie & Katya, Thursday, Oct. 24, doors open at 7 p.m., event starts at 8 p.m., Lyric Baltimore. You know them from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and “All Stars,” and on their web series “UNHhhh.” Now this comedic duo is bring their show, “The Bald and the Beautiful with Trixie and Katya,” to Baltimore.

The Textures of Us, Friday, Oct. 25, through Sunday, Oct. 27, Galerie Myrtis. Artist Devin Allen will display work in a solo exhibition titled “The Textures of Us” at Galerie Myrtis. The exhibition will feature photos from Allen’s new book, “Devin Allen: Baltimore”; unreleased images, and work from Allen’s students. The exhibition will open this weekend and will remain on view through Jan. 11.

Halloween Ride, Friday, Oct. 25, meet at 6:45 p.m. at St. Mary’s Park. Ride through the city with the Baltimore Bike Party. This event is a Halloween-themed ride, so costumes are encouraged.

Oyster Gardening, Saturday, Oct. 26, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Harbor East Marina. Join the Great Baltimore Oyster Partnership in their efforts to restore the Chesapeake Bay’s oyster population. Volunteers will help plant baby oysters (spat), build oyster habitats, and install a new oyster garden at Harbor East Marina.

ZOOmbie Run, Saturday, Oct. 26, 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., Maryland Zoo. Scary movies aren’t the only way to get your blood pumping this spooky season. Participate in a 5K run or a 1-mile walk through the Maryland Zoo. Costumes are encouraged. There will be food trucks, a photo booth, and other post-race activities.

Sailabration, Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fells Point Broadway Pier. Learn about the connections between sailing and tattooing. Plus, experience what life was like sailing on the high seas in the 18th and 19th centuries by drinking grog and sampling “hardtack.” Read more in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.

Play Me A Ghost Story, Saturday, Oct. 26, 11 a.m., Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Listen to symphonic ghost stories inspired by Edgar Allan Poe, Frankenstein, and more. The event will feature music by Gustav Mahler, Lou Reed, and Jim Stephenson.

South Baltimore Halloween Bash, Saturday, Oct. 26, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Riverside Park. Participate in scavenger hunts and races; eat cotton candy, popcorn, and other yummy treats; get a glitter tattoo; shop vendors; and more.

World Oddities Expo, Saturday, Oct. 26, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., Baltimore Convention Center. The strange, the peculiar, and the downright bizarre will all be on full display at the World Oddities Expo. This traveling event comes to Baltimore this Saturday, where it will feature vendors, speakers, performances and more. From taxidermy to insects to macabre art, there’s something for everyone who needs a little oddness in their life.

Great Halloween Lantern Parade, Saturday, Oct. 26, festival begins at 4 p.m., parade starts at 7 p.m., Patterson Park. Watch beautiful lanterns parade through the park — and even make your own — at the 25th annual Great Halloween Lantern Parade. There will be a kids costume contest, arts & crafts market, performances, food trucks, and more. Read more in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.

Haunted Harbor, Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 p.m., Power Plant Live! Get in on the ghostly fun, with DJ performances, costume contests, access to bars and nightclubs, and more.

Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert, Saturday, Oct. 26, and Sunday, Oct. 27, Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Hear the music from Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” performed live by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra as you watch the film on the big screen.

Monument to Monument Ride, Sunday, Oct. 27, 9 a.m., Baltimore Washington Monument. Participate in a ride from Baltimore’s Washington Monument at Mount Vernon Place all the way to the Washington Monument in D.C.

Harbor Harvest Children’s Fall Festival, Sunday, Oct. 27, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Rash Field Park. Decorate pumpkins, pet some animals, participate in pie-baking and costume contests, and more at the festival. Read more in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.

Bluegrass and Goats, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., Wyman Park Dell at 29th and Charles streets. Watch goats graze on invasive species while you enjoy a Baltimore Bluegrass Jam hosted by Alex Lacquement, Maddie Witler and Sam Guthridge.

The Great Halloween Lantern Parade, a cherished tradition held yearly in Patterson Park, is celebrating its 25th anniversary in part with a new 15-foot-tall float. 

Maggie the Monstersaurus is a giant paper and reed construction that commemorates Margaret Footner, a co-founder of Creative Alliance, the non-profit organization that hosts the beloved event. 

“We’re all here together and we’re all just celebrating each other,” said Rachel Rush, educational director at Creative Alliance and director of the parade. “Each other’s culture, each other’s interests, each other’s artistic talent. To see such a mixture all together, seeing people just cheer each other on, it’s really lovely.” 

The event kicks off on Saturday, Oct. 26, with a festival from 4 to 7 p.m. that will feature food trucks, art vendors, information tents, musical and dance performances, and a costume contest. 

During the festival, participants are encouraged to create their own lantern with provided resources or use one from previous years. Throughout the course of the fall, Creative Alliance hosts free lantern making workshops for residents who want to prepare a lantern prior to the special day. 

New selfie frames highlighting some of the most popular past floats will also be available this year.

The parade sets off at 7 p.m. with participants marching nearly a mile through and around Patterson Park alongside marching bands, dance troupes, musicians, and cultural groups. 

“When you come and experience it, it really is a joyful community experience,” Rush said. “After people come, they’re like, ‘I’m not gonna miss it again, I’m gonna make sure I come every single year!’” 

The Creative Alliance’s mission is to bring people together and serve our community, and “nothing does that better than the Lantern Parade,” she said. 

Katie Long, program director of Friends of Patterson Park, has been involved with the parade for 15 years. She says the event captures people’s imaginations and is a real community lift. 

“There’s lantern workshops all over town, there’s people taking stilt walking classes to be able to stilt in the parade,” Long said. “We start planning it the day after the parade ends, so all year we’re kind of recruiting people to be parade marshals, or float carriers, or maybe to walk or march in the parade…it’s very much embedded in the community.” 

Edwin Perez, a high school Spanish teacher, explained that the event is crucial to the Baltimore community. He has volunteered with the costume contest and recruitment for the past 10 years. 

“There’s this idea of using art to unify, to express yourself in a way that is open to all…it really is a family friendly event, and it allows you to be creative,” Perez said. “The concepts of wearing a mask, or dressing up, or using light as a decorative tool is something that’s universal and found in many cultures.”   

Acknowledging that 25 years is a huge milestone, Perez said he is hopeful that the event will continue for many more years to come. 

“It’s happening in a community that’s open to all, that really welcomes anybody from all backgrounds and all abilities…the fun factor is also there–it’s a joyful event,” Perez said. “For this one moment in the evening, you can really have fun with neighbors, with strangers, and have a really good atmosphere in one of the best parks in the city.” 

To learn more about Creative Alliance and Patterson Park visit, creativealliance.org and bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/parks/patterson-park. 

Join the fun November 8-10, 2024, when the Maryland Irish Festival returns to the Timonium Fairgrounds to celebrate 50 years! Rock out to contemporary Irish music or tap your toes to traditional tunes while watching an authentic Irish dance troupe take the stage. Enjoy delicious Irish food & drink, (yes we have colcannon, Irish Stew, Guinness & Tullamore Dew), soak in the cultural exhibits, browse beautiful gifts from dozens of regional vendors, and check out the children’s activities area, too.

• Friday Night Happy Hour 6-8pm with $5 Beer and live music from Kilmaine Saints
• Saturday Night Irish Ceili at 7:45pm led by Eammon De Cogian (Audience Participation Social Dance)
• Sunday Mass at 10:30am led by Fr. Collin Poston and Fr. Leo Patalinghug
• Saturday and Sunday Whiskey Tastings

Live music includes Kilmaine Saints, Albannach, Piper Jones Band, Syr, Dublin 5, The ShamRogues, Brendan’s Voyage, Poehemia, Diddley Idols, and more!

Proceeds benefit the Irish Charities of Maryland. Kids and Active Military get in FREE. For details, event schedule, and tickets visit www.irishfestival.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Calling all nature explorers! Friends School of Baltimore invites prospective pre-k, kindergarten, and first grade students and their families for a fun-filled morning at Friends to explore our native gardens, fields, and stream with our Lower School science teacher. Binoculars to search for insects and identify plants and flowers will be provided! Saturday, October 26, 2024, 10:00 – 11:45 a.m.

Friends School of Baltimore is a private, co-educational, Quaker school serving students in pre-k through 12th grade. As Baltimore’s first school, Friends has pioneered innovative teaching and learning since 1784. A Friends education emphasizes the mastery of essential skills required to succeed in the world – skills like critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and leadership. Friends School’s holistic approach to education allows students to explore and excel across a broad range of activities in academics, athletics, and arts. As a Quaker school, Friends is guided by the Quaker testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship, and a core belief that there is that of God in each person. Students are held to a high standard of personal conduct and challenged to model behaviors that build community and promote equality.

Join the Waldorf School of Baltimore on Sunday, November 17th, from 10 AM to 4 PM for a day of wonder and joy at the 36^th Annual Waldorf Fair!

Dive into a delightful array of “unplugged” activities that highlight the unique charm of Waldorf education. Experience the joy of jump-rope making, beeswax dipping, and candle rolling. Try your luck at the fishing game, enjoy captivating marionette shows, and sway to the sounds of live music!

Celebrated by Baltimore’s Child Magazine as one of the Best Family Events of the Year and highlighted in Baltimore Magazine’s “Must Do” Weekend Highlights, the Waldorf Fair is truly a celebration for all ages! More activities include Toddler Storytime, a photo booth, face painting, an immersive Faerie Grotto, and an instrument petting zoo provided by Stages Music Arts. Plus, there are multiple hands-on natural crafts waiting for you to explore!

The Waldorf Fair beautifully embodies the school’s educational values, grounded in a deep understanding of child development. Don’t miss the chance to browse our artisan vendor marketplace featuring over 30 stalls showcasing the unique handcrafted creations of local Baltimore artists and businesses.

Join us for a magical day that showcases an educational model inspiring children around the globe with the joy of lifelong learning since 1919.

Waldorf School of Baltimore is located at 4801 Tamarind Road. Entry is Free. Tickets required for some crafts and activities, these can be purchased at the door or in advance at www.wsbfair.com. For more information on the Waldorf School of Baltimore, please visit www.waldorfschoolofbaltimore.org

Whether your ideal October weekend involves running or biking around Baltimore, or you want to learn some spooky history, this weekend has a little something for everyone.

Check it all out in our weekend events roundup:

.05K Race, Thursday, Oct. 17, 5:30 p.m. check-in, Union Craft Brewing. Yes, you read that right: a 0.05K race. That works out to just over 160 feet. Presented by 98 Rock, proceeds from this comically short race will benefit the Baltimore City Firefighters Local 734 Widows & Orphans Fund. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes and other categories. Sign up for the race here.

Disney on Ice, Thursday, Oct. 17, through Sunday, Oct. 20, CFG Bank Arena. Watch some of your favorite Disney characters skate around the ice in this dazzling performance.

Alsop Conducts, Thursday, Oct. 17, and Sunday, Oct. 20, Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Former BSO Music Director Marin Alsop will conduct the orchestra in a concert joined by Japanese pianist Hayato Sumino. The performance will include pieces by James Lee III, Frédéric Chopin, and Sergei Prokofiev.

Teacher Night Out, Friday, Oct. 18, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Maryland Science Center. Calling all educators: unwind after a week of teaching with a trip to the Maryland Science Center. There will be beverages from Boordy Vineyards and Pherm Brewing Company. This event is for teachers only, and admission is free with a valid teacher ID.

Japanese Ghosts and Goblins, Friday, Oct. 18, 6 p.m., Guilford Hall Brewery. In this edition of the Profs & Pints lecture series, learn about the spirits of Japanese folklore. Michele M. Mason, associate professor of Japanese cultural studies at the University of Maryland, College Park, will share tales of Japanese ghosts, goblins, shapeshifters, and tricksters.

Spirits & Stories, Friday, Oct. 18, 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., B&O Railroad Museum. Sip on spooky cocktails, go on a haunted history tour, get your face painted, decorate a pumpkin, and go on a train ride.

Hoodstock, Friday, Oct. 18, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., Baltimore Museum of Industry. Enjoy rock and folk music from the late ’60s and early ’70s, mixed with contemporary music. This grass roots music festival doubles as a fundraiser for Unified Community Connections and their work to support people with disabilities. In addition to good music by local performers, there will be raffles, a silent auction, dinner, beer and wine.

Brett Goldstein, Friday, Oct. 18, doors open at 6 p.m., event starts at 7 p.m., Lyric Baltimore. British comedian Brett Goldstein is the co-executive producer, writer, and star of the acclaimed Apple TV+ series “Ted Lasso.” Now, he’s coming to Baltimore for a stand-up show, “The Second Best Night of Your Life.”

Baltimore Running Festival, Saturday, Oct. 19, 8 a.m., Inner Harbor waterfront, Federal Hill, and Fells Point. Participate in the Baltimore Running Festival, with beautiful views of Baltimore’s waterfront.

OktoBEARfest, Saturday, Oct. 19, and Sunday, Oct. 20, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. both days. Sample more than 60 fall-flavored brews, enjoy live music, shop from food and artisan vendors, participating in trivia and a stein-hosting competition, watch an elephant pumpkin smash, and more. All proceeds will benefit animal care and conservation.

Guided Bike Tour, Saturday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., meet at Middle Branch Park. Rails to Trails Conservancy will lead a guided bike tour along the Gwynns Falls Trail from Middle Branch Park to Solo Gibbs Park.

Masquerade Ball, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., The Peale. Attend mystical workshops, shop from magical vendors, and enjoy enchanting entertainment at the Bazaar Esoterica Masquerade Ball.

York Road Festival, Saturday, Oct. 19, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., York Road Improvement District (around 5300 block of York Road). The inaugural York Road Music and Arts Festival will feature food and drinks; local craft vendors; and live performances from Easy Star All Stars, Freedom Enterprise, “Original Grease” (ft. members of Greasy Hands, Slow Lights, and Schu & The Souls) and Maura Tull.

There’s an autumnal chill in the air, but Baltimore is hot with events to attend this weekend.

From the return of the Baltimore Speakers Series, to concerts by the band Hanson, there’s plenty in store.

Check it all out in our weekend events roundup:

Grow Session, Thursday, Oct. 10, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Waverly Commons. Get free mulch, free trees, and resources and information about gardening, greening, recycling and growing.

Dining Out For Life, Thursday, Oct. 10, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Silver Queen Cafe. Help raise money for Moveable Feast, which serves people experiencing food insecurity and chronic illness.

Artists-in-Residence, Thursday, Oct. 10, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., virtual. Ainsley Burrows and Vonne Napper, the 2024 JJC Summer Artists-in-Residence at MICA, will discuss their work from the residency. The conversation will be livestreamed on the Baltimore Museum of Art’s Facebook and YouTube pages.

Dan Schøener, Thursday, Oct. 10, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Harbor East Cinemas. Mentalist and mindreader Dan Schøener will get inside your head during “Mind Over Magic.”

Liz Cheney, Thursday, Oct. 10, 8 p.m., Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Former U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyoming) will kick off the 2024/2025 season of the Baltimore Speakers Series. Cheney chaired the House Republican Conference and served as Vice Chair of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol. She has campaigned in support of Vice President Kamala Harris’s run for president.

Pokémon Sleepover, Friday, Oct. 11, 5:30 p.m. (overnight into Saturday, Oct. 12), Maryland Science Center. Do you want to be the very best like no one ever was? Are you on a mission to catch ’em all? Put your knowledge of Pokémon evolutions to the test; make a trading card; battle and trade Pokémon; and then sleep overnight at the Science Center alongside fellow Pokémasters. This event is for children age 5 and older. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Kidz Bop Live, Friday, Oct. 11, 7 p.m., Pier Six Pavilion. Listen to Kidz Bop versions of pop songs in this live show.

Hanson, Friday, Oct. 11, and Saturday, Oct. 12, Rams Head Live. Enjoy a two-night appearance by the band Hanson as part of their “Underneath: Experience Tour.” The first night will be an acoustic show featuring special guest Matthew Sweet. Then on night two, enjoy an electric show featuring special guest Phantom Planet.

Bop to the Top, Friday, Oct. 11, doors open at 8:30 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m., Baltimore Soundstage. Get the best of both worlds at this celebration of Hannah Montana and your favorite Disney Channel anthems. There will be a lip sync battle, dance off, costume contest, and more.

Marco Antonio Solís, Saturday, Oct. 12, doors open at 7 p.m., event begins at 8 p.m., CFG Bank Arena. Mexican musician Marco Antonio Solís will perform in Baltimore as part of his “Eternamente Agradecido World Tour.”

Barrio Fiesta, Sunday, Oct. 13, 10 a.m., Power Plant Live! Celebrate Filipino culture with vendors, live entertainment, and more.

Spooky Expo, Sunday, Oct. 13, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Ottobar. At the “Macabre Menagerie of Mysteries,” enjoy a mini-expo full of dark and spooky live performances, special effect make-up demonstrations, taxidermy classes, macabre vendors, and meet & greets and book signings with authors of dark books and comic books.

Indigenous People’s Day Performance, Sunday, Oct. 13, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., The Walters Art Museum. Flutist and storyteller Aio “Blue Heron” Sifu will perform in honor of Indigenous People’s Day.

Behavioral health needs are a growing problem fueling emergency department crowing and long wait times. Howard County’s only hospital is addressing the challenge with a major capital project: a 7,000-square-foot behavioral health unit with 18 patient spaces.

That’s a major upgrade from the six behavioral health beds in the emergency department now.

To help complete the $10 million project, Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center has launched $3 million community fundraising campaign. One major element of the campaign is taking place this weekend: a benefit concert featuring jazz and R&B star Brian Culbertson.

The concert begins at 5 p.m. on Sunday Oct. 6 at Howard Community College, and tickets are still available.

Current space constraints at JHHCMC often means wait times of up to a day for a psychiatric evaluation, with patients in distress waiting in the the general emergency room.

“Forty percent of the general population will have a mental issue or behavioral issue at some point in their lives serious enough that they would warrant attention,” siad Dr. Andrew Angelino, head of the JHHCMC’s Psychiatry Department. “Our current space is wholly inadequate. It’s too small and it’s not very comfortable or conducive to healing.”

Dr. Shafeeq Ahmed, president of the hospital, said it is important for the community to help invest in more spaces and services for behavioral health patients is because “at any given time someone in your family or your friend network will need our services, and it’s just a matter of time.”

“And the nice thing about the Hopkins health system is that when you invest in the local hospital that money stays local for that hospital.”

The hospital foundations web site indicates that it has raised nearly $253,000 toward the $3 million goal to date.

In addition to Culbertson, an Illinois native who is founder of the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway, the Sunday concert will also feature jazz trumpeter Cindy Bradley and saxaphonists Brian Lenair.

If you go: The line-up for the benefit concert at Howard Community College Rouse Theater, 5460 Trumpeter Road, Columbia.

• 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.              Food Trucks
• 4:30 p.m.                          Doors & Box Office Opens*
• 5:00-6:00 p.m.                 Brian Lenair
• 6:30-7:30 p.m.                 Cindy Bradley
• 8:00-9:30 p.m.                 Brian Culbertson

Tickets available HERE.

Unified Community Connections, a nonprofit agency supporting people with disabilities, will hold its signature concert fundraiser Hoodstock XXI on Friday, October 18 at a new venue, the Baltimore Museum of Industry, in Baltimore. 

Hoodstock is turning 21 and here’s what you need to know:  

When: Friday, October 18
7:00 – 11:00 pm

Where:  Baltimore Museum of Industry
1415 Key Highway, Baltimore, MD 21230
*Free onsite parking available

What’s Provided:  Live music from the ‘60s and ‘70s, food, drinks, dancing, spectacular views of the Inner Harbor, opportunity to tour a few of the museum’s exhibits, raffles, and an online silent auction.

Local band, Roses n Rust, will headline Hoodstock and cover both classic and modern artists from the ‘60s, ‘70s and today.  In addition to the Wafflers and many other familiar faces.   

A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Samuel A. Tucker Memorial Can Do Award to recognize an individual who receives supports from Unified.  O.J. Brigance, senior advisor for player development for the Baltimore Ravens and former Unified Community Connections board member, will present the award.

“Hoodstock is the laidback concert fundraiser where guests just say no to black-tie and yes to tie-dye,” said Amy Kreitz, president and CEO of Unified Community Connections.  “Dig out those bell-bottoms or come as you are to rock out at the Baltimore Museum of Industry in support of a great cause.”    

Last year’s Hoodstock raised more than $106,000 to benefit Unified Community Connections and the work they do to help people with disabilities live as independently as possible.  

Tickets are $50 in advance and $55 the day of the event.  For more information, visit www.unified.org/hoodstock or www.facebook.com/hoodstock or contact Lauren Bussard at lbussard@unified.org or 443-449-2461.

Unified Community Connections is a nonprofit agency that serves people with a wide range of disabilities throughout Maryland. Unified’s mission is to support people with disabilities in achieving independence, productivity, and the quality of life they seek through residential, and meaningful day services as well as assistive technology.  Headquartered in Sparks, Unified provides services in Baltimore, Cumberland, Frederick and Hagerstown. (www.unified.org)

Get into an autumnal mood and spooky spirit with an array of fun Baltimore events this weekend.

From a festival dedicated to Edgar Allan Poe, to a witchy concert, explore it all in our weekend events roundup:

Schooner Race, Thursday, Oct. 3, 12 p.m., Chesapeake Bay. Catch a glimpse of the ships competing in the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race.

Medieval Monsters, Thursday, Oct. 3, 6 p.m., Guilford Hall Brewery. What better way to start spooky season than with a talk about the monsters that scared people in the past — and that might just haunt the present. This installment of the “Profs & Pints” series will be led by Lilla Kopár, a Catholic University professor of medieval literature and culture who teaches courses on medieval monster lore and Norse mythology.

Seasons of the Witch, Thursday, Oct. 3, 6:30 p.m., George Peabody Library. Kicking off the 2024/25 In the Stacks Concert Series, enjoy musical performances about the history of witchcraft and the persecution of women who were called witches.

New/Next Film Festival, Thursday, Oct. 3, through Sunday, Oct. 6, The Charles Theater. Enjoy four days of features, shorts, and other films at the New/Next Film Festival.

Charm City Fringe Festival, Thursday, Oct. 3, through Sunday, Oct. 6, The Peale Museum. Charm City Fringe Festival continues this weekend with theatrical, musical, and other performances.

Billie Eilish, Friday, Oct. 4, doors open at 5:30 p.m., event begins at 7 p.m., CFG Bank Arena. Birds of a feather will be flocking to the Billie Eilish concert at CFG Bank Arena on Friday. She will be making a stop in Baltimore as part of her “Hit Me Hard and Soft” tour to celebrate her album of the same name.

Zoo Boo, Friday, Oct. 4, through Sunday, Oct. 6, Maryland Zoo. With fall upon us, it’s time for the return of Zoo Boo. The series of events will kick off this weekend and run through Oct. 27. Navigate a hay maze, enjoy hay rides, watch an elephant smash pumpkins, meet animal ambassadors, trick or treat through the zoo, and more.

Edgar Allan Poe Festival, Friday, Oct. 4, through Sunday, Oct. 6, Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum. Celebrate one of the fathers of horror writing during the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival & Awards. This weekend also marks 75 years of honoring Poe’s legacy at the Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum.

Victorian-Era Walking Tour, Saturday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m., Seton Hill. Historian Emma Katherine Bilski will lead a walking tour of Baltimore’s Seton Hill neighborhood, where attendees will hear stories about Baltimore’s Black Catholic history, student pranks, asylums, and America’s oldest Gothic Revival masterpiece.

Peace and Wellness Festival, Saturday, Oct. 5, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Ruscombe Mansion Community grounds. Embrace peace and wellness with a drum circle, qi gong, healthy cooking demonstrations, a botanical beverage bar, and more.

Plants and Prints, Saturday, Oct. 5, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., BMA Lexington Market. Vonne Napper will lead this workshop about exploring plant life through relief printmaking. Participants will be able to make their own stamp and use it to create nature-inspired prints.

Sabrina Carpenter, Saturday, Oct. 5, doors open at 6 p.m., event begins at 7 p.m., CFG Bank Arena. If you have good judgement and good taste, you might find yourself at the Sabrina Carpenter concert this weekend. Known for her hits like “Please Please Please,” “Espresso” and “Taste,” Carpenter will perform in Baltimore on Saturday.

Brad Williams, Saturday, Oct. 5, 7 p.m., Lyric Baltimore. With multiple comedy specials and frequent guest appearances in TV and film, comedian Brad Williams will next take the stage in Baltimore this Saturday.

Fell’s Point Fun Festival, Saturday, Oct. 5, and Sunday, Oct. 6, Fells Point. Enjoy food, drinks, shopping, live music, and fun for the whole family at the Fells Point Fun Festival.

Blockbuster Broadway, Saturday, Oct. 5, and Sunday, Oct. 6, Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. New York’s top vocalists will perform a selection of songs from “Wicked,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Annie,” “Jersey Boys,” “The Sound of Music,” “Chicago,” “CATS,” “The Lion King,” and “A Chorus Line.”

New date alert! The 11th annual Doors Open Baltimore is moving to late October to coincide with the National Organization for Minority Architects (NOMA) Conference and Exposition coming to Baltimore. This year’s city-wide celebration will feature a new format for open houses on Sat. Oct. 26 and guided tours throughout the entire month of October.

Doors Open Baltimore, hosted by Baltimore Architecture Foundation, gives the city’s architecture and neighborhoods the chance to take center stage, opening doors to 40+ buildings for public exploration. 

Tours begin this weekend, Oct. 5! Some tours include an Architecture Boat Tour of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, Voxel Theater – a new black box research theater in Charles Village, and a rare look inside an 1895 marble facade townhouse in Harlem Park, home to sculptor P Brad Parker’s art studio, “Parker Studio.”

Hundreds of architects visiting Baltimore will have the opportunity to participate in this annual event while in town Oct. 23 – 27 for NOMA’s traveling annual conference.

“The local chapter of NOMA, Bmore NOMA, has worked tirelessly to provide a fantastic conference experience for the 1,200+ licensed architects, professionals, and students who will be attending the conference,” Nakita Reed, President of Baltimore Architecture Foundation, said. “BAF is proud to use Doors Open Baltimore as a way to celebrate the city and show that there’s more to Bmore.”

This year’s open house day provides participants with a more organized way to tackle the day.

“Doors Open sites will be open either in the morning [10 AM – 2 PM] or afternoon [1 PM – 5 PM] and will be clustered geographically to encourage car-free neighborhood touring,” Katherine Somerville, Associate Director of Education & Programs for Baltimore Architecture Foundation, said. “For those looking for a more adventurous strategy, look for themed routes which weave a connective thread between Baltimore buildings. For example, follow the “Baltimore Made” themed route to learn about 19th century industrial workers at the Baltimore Immigration Museum and then continue to Coradetti to watch glass blowing demonstrations.”

Doors open Baltimore is welcoming numerous new sites this year, including several in the Station North Arts District.

“I wanted to participate in Doors Open because I’ve had such a wonderful time touring other sites over the years,” John Renner, Owner of North Avenue Market, said. “The opportunity to visit spaces that are normally closed to the public is a great tool for getting people out to explore the city. The 22 lane duckpin bowling alley at North Avenue Market has been closed to the public since about 1990, and few modifications have been made to the space over those 34 years. So it is sort of like a time capsule.”

2024 Doors Open Baltimore Sites and Tours are available on our website and are announced weekly on Doors Open Baltimore’s Instagram (@doorsopenbmore). See our full lineup at doorsopenbaltimore.org

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.

If you’re lookin’ for a festival this weekend, Baltimore has plenty of ’em!

From oysters to pig races, there’s a little something for everyone.

Check it all out in our weekend events roundup:

Charli XCX and Troye Sivan, Thursday, Sept. 26, doors open at 6:30 p.m., event begins at 7:30 p.m., CFG Bank Arena. A pair of rising musical stars, Charli XCX and Troye Sivan are coming to Baltimore on their “Sweat” tour. Whether you’re a brat or you just got him started, you’re bound to have a good time. The concert will also feature special guest Shygirl.

World is Your Oyster Festival, Thursday, Sept. 26, 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., The B&O Railroad Museum. Enjoy local oysters, seafood, and drinks; learn to shuck oysters and cheer for professionals in a shucking competition; and learn about why oysters are important to restoration of the Chesapeake Bay.

& Juliet, Thursday, Sept. 26, through Saturday, Sept. 28, Hippodrome Theatre. Watch a musical based on one of William Shakespeare’s most famous plays, “Romeo & Juliet,” but with a major twist: what if Juliet didn’t die? What life would she go on to live? The music weaves modern pop songs, like Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone” and Britney Spears’ “Baby One More Time,” with the reimagined Shakespearean classic.

Heritage of Tattooing, Friday, Sept. 27, 6 p.m., Guilford Hall Brewery. In this latest edition of the Profs & Pints lecture series, learn about the “world heritage of tattooing.” Hear from Lars Krutak, a Washington D.C.-based anthropologist, research associate at the Museum of International Folk Art, author or editor of books about tattooing, and former host of the Discovery Channel’s “Tattoo Hunter.”

Stoop Storytelling, Friday, Sept. 27, 7 p.m., The Green Room (underneath the Bluebird Cocktail Lounge). Hear stories about “Friends, Foes, and the Fences in Between” in this Stoop Storytelling event. The event will also include musical guest Caleb Stine.

Neon Disco Bike Party, Friday, Sept. 27, meet at 6:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Park. Bicyclists are encouraged to put on their best and brightest for this neon disco-themed ride.

Charm City Fringe Festival, Friday, Sept. 27, through Sunday, Sept. 29, The Peale Museum. Charm City Fringe Festival kicks off this Friday and runs through Oct. 6, featuring a range of funny, funky, and fringe performances and events.

Lauraville Fair, Saturday, Sept. 28, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Harford Road and Parkside Drive. Shop vendors and mix & mingle with Lauraville community members at the 38th Annual Lauraville Fair.

Asia in a Bite Festival, Saturday, Sept. 28, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Rash Field Park. It’s the final Asia in a Bite Festival of the year. Enjoy flavors from various Asian cultures.

Vino in Vogue, Saturday, Sept. 28, 12 p.m., Harbor East. Visit Aliceanna Street for an afternoon of wine tasting and shopping.

Pigtown Festival, Saturday, Sept. 28, 12 p.m., Pigtown Main Street. You’ve heard of the Preakness, but what about the Squeakness? Cheer on your favorite swine in the pig races at the 22nd Annual Pigtown Festival. The festival will also include live music, food and drinks, a kid zone, and more than 70 arts and crafts vendors.

Science Arcade, Saturday, Sept. 28, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Maryland Science Center. Make a cardboard pinball machine, turn yourself into an 8-bit video game character, and more when the Maryland Science Center becomes a Science Arcade for the afternoon.

Tellerfest, Saturday, Sept. 28, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., Patterson Park Observatory. Enjoy this free music, arts, and wellness festival while raising funds for the Baltimore Office of Promotion & the Arts. The event will feature performances by Seven Teller, Gordon Sterling & The People, Uncle Kunkel’s One Gram Band, 5 Spot, and Walsh Kunkel.

Rat Race, Saturday, Sept. 28, 5 p.m., The Ottobar. Participate in a short foot race and scavenger hunt. Costumes are encouraged. Prizes will be awarded.

Charm City Cross, Saturday, Sept. 28, and Sunday, Sept. 29, Druid Hill Park. Participate in amateur and professional Cyclocross races through Druid Hill Park. The event is free to spectators. In addition to races, there will be food trucks, a beer garden, and and expo area.

Whether you’re positively pumped about pickles, or you’re looking to show off a costume inspired by your favorite comic book or other piece of media, this weekend in Baltimore has plenty to be excited about.

Check it all out in our weekend events roundup:

Where Baltimore Grows, Thursday, Sept. 19, doors open at 4:30 p.m., talk starts at 5 p.m., Cylburn Arboretum, Vollmer Center. In the first installment of the new “Where Baltimore Grows” speaker series, hear from Sonia Succar Ferré, founder and president of Futura Climate Strategies. Succar Ferré will talk about implementing nature-based solutions in urban settings.

Lindy Hop Championships, Friday, Sept. 20, 9 p.m., Mobtown Ballroom and Cafe. Dance partners will compete against fellow pairs in the Intergalactic Lindy Hop Championships, including fast dancing, slow dancing, and finals. The winning couple will receive $500.

Baltimore Comic-Con, Friday, Sept. 20, to Sunday, Sept. 22, Baltimore Convention Center. Meet your guests from your favorite comics and media, shop from vendors, compete in cosplay contests, and more at the 25th annual Baltimore Comic-Con.

Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, Friday, Sept. 20, through Sunday, Sept. 22, Chesapeake Shakespeare Company. Chesapeake Shakespeare Company will perform playwright August Wilson’s “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone,” directed by Kenyatta Rogers. Opening night will be Sept. 20 and the production will run through Oct. 13.

African American Fiber Aesthetics, Saturday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture. Learn about the evolution of fiber arts by Black women in this special event, “Colloquium – Fiberations: The Evolution and Tradition of African American Fiber Aesthetics.” It will feature a discussion by fiber artists Bisa Butler, Joyce Scott, Sanford Biggers, Karen Baker, Murjoni Merriweather, Nastassja Swift, Vera Hall and Dr. Joan M.E. Gaither, moderated by curator Imani Haynes and Dr. Leslie King-Hammonds.

Pickle Party, Saturday, Sept. 21, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., Power Plant Live. Enjoy pickles and pickle-related foods and drinks; compete in pickle-eating and brine-chugging contests; listen to music and more at The Big Dill World’s Largest Pickle Party.

Trash Wheel Fan Fest, Saturday, Sept. 21, 7 p.m., Peabody Heights Brewery. Dress as a “Trashbuster” or a “Garabage Ghoul” to celebrate Baltimore’s Trash Wheel family. Attendees will help raise money for new booms for Professor Trash Wheel and support a Maryland Bottle Bill.

Maxwell, Saturday, Sept. 21, doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. R&B and neo soul singer Maxwell will perform in Baltimore as part of his The Serenade Tour.

Yo-Yo Ma, Saturday, Sept. 21, 8 p.m., Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Cellist Yo-Yo Ma will join the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Jonathon Heyward.

Jo Koy, Saturday, Sept. 21, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 22, at 7:30 p.m., Lyric Baltimore. Comedian Jo Koy will perform for two nights at The Lyric during his Just Being Koy Tour.

Plein Air Art Show, Sunday, Sept. 22, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Garrett-Jacobs Mansion. View and purchase paintings of one of Baltimore’s Mount Vernon Place, created by members of the Mid-Atlantic Plein Air Painters Association.

Preoccupied: Indigenizing the Museum, Sunday, Sept. 22, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Baltimore Museum of Art. Visit the “Preoccupied: Indigenizing the Museum” at the Baltimore Museum of Art during this Community Day event, featuring dance performances by the Baltimore-based Uhwachi-Reh Dance Troupe, opportunities to tour some of the artwork in the exhibits alongside their artists, a Native American beadwork workshop, and more.