It’s the final countdown before the holidays, but COVID-19 cases are raging and restrictions are at some of their most stringent. So we’re just gonna have to make due and celebrate the best we can, with drive through events, self-guided tours and virtual gatherings. Check out some events around the city and region:
Science SLAM! Online: 7-9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18 (virtual). The Baltimore UnderGround Science Space (BUGGS) presents an evening of five-minute talks about scientific research and discoveries happening in Baltimore.
The Olmsteds Lay the Foundation for Baltimore’s Modern Park System: 1-1:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18. (virtual). The Baltimore Architecture Foundation features Ed Orser discussing the legacy of the Olmsted firm and its role in shaping the city’s greenspaces.
Warren Wolf: 7-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18 at An Die Musik (Streaming) The vibraphonist offers interpretations of holiday tunes from his latest album, “Christmas Vibes.”
Ice Sculpting Masters: Dec. 18-19 at Turf Valley Resort, Ellicott City. Over 50K pounds of ice will be carved down to eight displays over two days, and you’ve got a chance to drive through and see the finished sculptures from the warmth of the car. It’s a U.S. National Championship event, meaning some of the best carvers will be onhand. In the parking lot each day, check out a carving demo.
Posada: 5-8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 19 at Lady of Pompei Church. The neighborhood Mexican tradition recreates Mary and Joseph’s Biblical journey for a place to stay. This Highlandtown celebration, organized by Creative Alliance, features Mexican carols in the streets.
Issue No. 1 Exhibition: Through Jan. 16 at Full Circle Gallery. Artist Bria Sterling-Wilson presents collage work that “pieces together the complex interpersonal narrative of the Black American experience.”
Upperco’s Yuletide Village: 5-9 p.m. through Jan. 3 in Upperco. Here’s a Baltimore County light display that’s a fresh arrival among local holiday traditions. In its second year, it’s a drive through event amid social distancing restrictions.
Window Solstice on Butchers Hill: 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 20 at Patterson Park Pagoda. Want to peruse decorations and not feel like you’re creeping? Here’s a chance to take a self-guided walking tour of the Southeast Baltimore neighborhood to view festive silhouett displays at homes in the area.
Toys For Tots Gala 2020 – A Virtual Spectacle!: 6-8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 20 (Virtual). Jimmy’s Seafood hosts a fundraiser with live virtual concert, cooking demos, cocktail tutorials and more.
35th Annual Union Square Cookie Tour: Through Dec. 31 (virtual). The annual Southwest Baltimore home tour went virtual this year, so now it’s available to view through the end of the year.
