The CIAA Basketball Tournament began on Monday in Baltimore at CFG Bank Arena for the third year in a row, giving Baltimore sports lovers some excitement between football and baseball seasons.
It’s not only basketball fans who enjoy tournament time in Baltimore, however. The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association does have a large alumni network in the DMV area, but Baltimore rolls out the welcome mat for all sorts of events surrounding the tournament.
Here’s a rundown of some of the festivities for all to enjoy.
Center Court Baltimore
Center Court Baltimore returns during CIAA weekend to the Atrium at Market Place (next to Port Discovery Museum) to showcase a diverse collection of small and minority businesses, vendors, artists, creatives, and thought leaders. There will be more than 100 vendors with food, clothing, art, specialty items, entertainment, and networking and social engagement. Some activities are free of charge, others require tickets be purchased. Events run from Thursday, Feb. 29 through Sunday, March 3. They are hosted by The Finn Group, Events 4 Good People, DChase Presents, Black Girls Vote, Sweet Spot Nation, Dreadz N Headz, and the Greater Baltimore Urban League. Learn more about the schedule and purchasing tickets by clicking this link.
CIAA Fan Fest 2024
This free two-day event is held at the Baltimore Convention Center on Friday and Saturday, March 1 – 2. There will be interactive sponsor activations, concerts, and family friendly entertainment. Attendees can also see the CIAA Greek and High School Step Shows on Friday and Saturday evenings. Tickets for the step shows are available by clicking this link. The full schedule of events for Fan Fest is available by clicking this link. Registration is required.
CIAA Brunch at the Sagamore Pendry
On Sunday, March 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., enjoy live music, an extensive buffet, comfortable seating, and a premier atmosphere to cap off CIAA week at this exclusive Baltimore restaurant on the water in Fell’s Point. Brunch is served in the lounge, the drinks are top-notch, and the food options are bountiful. Purchase tickets by clicking this link.
CIAA Health and Wellness Summit
On Thursday, Feb. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., check out this series of panel discussions focused on mental health and health disparities within the African American community. The Health and Wellness Summit engages local athletes and medical professionals to share their expertise, with a focus on topics that impact student athletes. The summit takes place at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture. The summit is free of charge, though registration is required. Register by clicking this link.
More information about events and activities surrounding the CIAA Tournament can be found on the Visit Baltimore website, or by clicking this link.
