There’s never been a more important time to celebrate the arts in Baltimore, and this weekend features plenty of chances. Between AFRAM and Arts and Drafts, there are a pair of festivals gathering creators and artists from around the city, and beyond. Or, check out theatre, live music and quidditch. Here’s the picks:
AFRAM Festival: Through August 22, in-person and virtual. While some of the week’s happenings were rescheduled due to weather, the weekend brings a trio of big events that are firmly intact for the African American arts and culture festival. On Friday night, skate at Shake & Bake. Then, check out two nights of virtual concerts with Chaka Khan, Mooski, Wale and Busta Rhymes on Saturday and Sunday.
Arts and Drafts Festival: August 20-22 at Guinness Open Gate Brewery. The Baltimore County Arts Guild presents a full weekend of arts and culture festivities, with 60 artists displaying work, live music and a creativity zone to roll up your sleeves. Friday night’s kickoff concert features Cris Jacobs and Shelly Bell Band.
Major League Quidditch Championship: August 21 and 22 at Troy Park, Elkridge. Harry Potter fans, take note. The wizarding world’s sport of choice arrives in Howard County for a weekend tournament. It’s still full contact, but this one takes place all on the ground. The mixed-gender sport brings together teams to compete for the Benepe Cup.
Writers LIVE!: Dr. Pallavi Guha: 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, virtual. Enoch Pratt Free Library’s author series will feature Guha discussing her book “Hear #metoo in India,” with writer Amy Wu.
One More Time: A Tribute to Daft Punk: 8 p.m. on Friday, August 20, at Baltimore Soundstage. DJ James Nasty revisits the French duo’s landmark dance album “Discovery” on its 20th anniversary year. We dare you to sit still.
Tacos N Tapas Festival: 12-5 p.m. on Saturday, August 21, at Harbor Point. Sample more than 30 different kinds of tacos, Mexican food, beer and tequila at this all you can taste festival. Plus, there will be live music, a hot pepper eating contest and more.
John Milton Wesley & David Philip Baker: 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 21, at An Die Musik LIVE! Wesley, a singer-songwriter, and Baker, a percussionist, are longtime collaborators. They’ll join forces for an evening of “message music.” In-person and virtual viewing options are available.
Craft Whiskey Roundup: 12 p.m. on Sunday, August 22 at Old Line Spirits. The Highlandtown distillery offers a chance to imbibe whiskeys from Virginia Distilling Company and Westward Whiskey. A tasting includes three spirits from each spot, including Old Line.
Shofar Sounds: A Rosh Hashanah Celebration: 3-4 p.m. on Sunay, August 22, virtual. Looking for a streaming, kid-friendly event? Jewish Museum of Maryland and Enoch Pratt Free Library get ready for the Jewish New Year with activities and music, featuring the ram’s horn trumpet that is synonymous with the holiday.
“Steel Magnolias”: Through September 5 at Everyman Theatre. The celebrated play centering on six Southern women as they navigate ups and downs is getting an in-person run at the downtown theatre.
Hello Stephen,
Thank you for including John Wesley Milton and David Philip Baker Sat concert in your weekend list.
Best.
Henry