Left, illuminated drones draw an eagle, next to fireworks. July 4 2024 at the Inner Harbor, Baltimore, Maryland. (credit: Carl Schmidt/Federal Hill Photography)

Ooh and ahh at Independence Day fireworks displays, take the stage at a poetry open mic night, shop spellbinding items at a magical market, and more this weekend in Baltimore.

Check it all out in our weekend events roundup:

Star Spangled Spectacular, Thursday, July 3, 8 p.m., Oregon Ridge Park. Grab your lawn chairs, blankets, friends, and family, and join the BSO for an outdoor performance featuring a dazzling fireworks finale.

Jazzy Summer Nights, Thursday, July 3, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Hopkins Plaza. For 25 years this monthly celebration of soul, jazz, and Baltimore culture has been an anchor in the city, transforming our public spaces into lively hubs of music, food, and community. This is Jazzy Summer Nights’ farewell season, and July’s show features Raheem DeVaughn as headliner.

Red, White & Zoo, Friday, July 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Maryland Zoo. Celebrate the 4th the Zoo and watch as animals receive special Fourth-of-July-themed treats.

Hot Dog Eating Contest, Friday, July 4, 10:30 a.m., Cross Street Market. Compete in this hot dog eating contest for a chance to win the grand prize of a $1,000 check. There will be an amateur and a professional heat.

Baltimore Inner Harbor Fourth of July Fireworks Show, Friday, July 4, fireworks start around 9:30 p.m. Get ready for a phenomenal Fourth of July fireworks display over Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, and enjoy other Independence Day festivities leading up to the show. Read more in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.

The Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival, Friday, July 4, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., Middle Branch Park. In its 9th year, this annual July 4th tradition celebrates unity, freedom, shared history while showcasing Baltimore’s rich musical and artistic culture. This year’s festival will feature a live performance from Navasha Daya, arts & crafts, a children’s village, historical reenactments, and more. The evening will culminate in a drone show. Read more in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.

Star Spangled Bash at B&O, Friday, July 4, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., B&O Railroad Museum. Enjoy a carnival of fun with a dunk tank, juggling lessons, and splash pads! There are July 4th-themed crafts, including red, white, and blue tye-dying t-shirts. Free with museum admission ($12 – $20).

Dundalk Heritage Fair, Friday, July 4, through Sunday, July 6, 2717 Playfield Street. The Dundalk community will celebrate the 50th Dundalk Heritage Fair, featuring two stages of music, food and drink vendors, rides, and more.

B’more Yoyo Club, Saturday, July 5, 1:30 p.m., Creative Alliance. Whether you’ve been yoyoing all your life or have just recently picked up the hobby, all skill levels are welcome at the Baltimore Yoyo Club. Learn some new tricks like walk the dog, rock the baby, Eiffel tower, and more. Bring your own yoyo or purchase one at the club for $15 cash.

Write About Now Poetry Live, Saturday, July 5, 7:30 p.m., La Familia Soundstage. Listen to poetry or sign up to particpate in the open mic yourself as Houston’s Write About Now brings a show to Baltimore. E-Baby will host this event.

The Magical Market, Sunday, July 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Emma’s Tea Spot. Sip, shop and soak in the enchantment whimsical vendors, vintage treasures, and handmade magic.

Rhythm and Wine Food & Music Festival, Sunday, July 6, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Carroll Park, 1500 Washington Blvd. Sip on some wine, get a bite to eat, and enjoy R&B and reggae music performed lived.

Marcus Dieterle is the managing editor of Baltimore Fishbowl, telling the stories of communities across the Baltimore region. Marcus helped lead the team to win a Best of Show award for Website of General...