When you can’t go anywhere, it becomes more important to appreciate the place where you are. Whether it’s taking note of the little things that you may have passed in haste before, or taking joy in the familiar rhythms of the place, cities can offer lots of solace in this regard, even if they were quieter in quarantine. So this week, take a moment to celebrate Baltimore. After all, Friday is the city’s birthday — 292 years in and still showing new things. Here are a few ways to show or gain some local appreciation, including a walking tour, Restaurant Week and a literal birthday party for the city:
Baltimore’s Birthday Bash 2021: 7-10 p.m. on Friday, July 30, at The Assembly Room. Celebrate the city’s 292nd birthday with live entertainment from local artists, as well as food, drink and treats. Proceeds help Live Baltimore as it promote the city’s neighborhoods.
Baltimore Restaurant Week: Through August 1, various restaurants. The coordinated dining extravaganza offers deals on meals. That means plenty of chances to sample something new.
Summer Sounds Remix: 6-8 p.m. on Friday, July 30, at Belvedere Square and virtual. The Ed Hrybyk Trio, led by Baltimore bassist and composer Hrybyk, will headline the North Baltimore series’ hybrid event.
Baltimore Black Wall Street Festival: 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, July 31, at YNot Lot. The Station North festival features Black-owned businesses from Baltimore, with performances and swag bags. It’s free to attend.
Benefit Show for the Baltimore Community Fridge: 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 31, at Skatepark of Baltimore. Community fridges offer communal spots to share surplus foods with individuals. To help these efforts, check out bands like Constituents, I Against I and Broken Eye Socket at the Hampden skatepark.
Baltimore Ravens Stadium Practice: 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 31, at M&T Bank Stadium. Fans can can get a first look at how the 2021 Baltimore Ravens squad is shaping up with an training session. Plus, enjoy music from DJ Kopec, fireworks and a laser show.
PLRLS, Natural Velvet and Bangarang: 8 p.m. on Saturday, July 31, at Ottobar. Check out a trio of local bands at the storied Charles Village rock club.
Gargoyles, Landmarks and Lions: A Downtown Baltimore Walking Tour: 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, August 1, at Hollywood Diner. Baltimore Heritage offers a guided tour of the city’s central business district, with plenty of history and architectural highlights along the way. Spot the history that’s looking down on the streets all the time.
Chris Barrick Band: 3 p.m. on Sunday, August 1, at An Die Musik LIVE! Barrick, a D.C.-based vibraphonist, percussionist and drummer, leads a jazz combo. In-person and virtual viewing options available.
“A Play for the Living in the Time of Extinction“: Through August 8 at Baltimore Centerstage, virtual. Baltimore-based playwright Miranda Rose Hall premieres a new work about climate change and “how to be human in an era of man-made extinction.”
Hello Stephen,
Thank you for including our Sunday’s Chris Barrick concert in your column.
Best.
Henry