WTMD’s First Thursdays Festival Series is returning for the 2024 summer season!
WTMD, music discovery station 89.7, is the host of the area’s biggest free outdoor concert series, featuring “an eclectic mix of talented artists, emerging acts, and celebrated musicians, as well as local fare and handcrafted goods from local artisans, makers, and manufacturers,” according to the press release.
First Thursdays will begin on June 6 and subsequent dates are July 11, Aug. 1, and Sept. 5. The festivals will take place in Canton Waterfront Park, located at 3001 Boston St. in Baltimore. Admission will be free to all guests.
“Baltimore’s roster of annual festivals has changed a lot since the pandemic, but we’re proud that WTMD’s First Thursdays will continue presenting diverse music lineups and amplifying our community,” said Craig Swagler, President and General Manager of Your Public Radio Corp., which owns WTMD. “We can’t wait to welcome thousands of Baltimoreans to enjoy free music by the harbor and showcase some of the city’s many local food and craft vendors.”
June 2023’s First Thursday Festival drew the largest audience ever in the series’ history, with an estimated 12,000 people in attendance. The 2023 season also set a record with nearly 100 local vendors and artisans. WTMD added a new Baker Artist Alley in the 2023 season, showcasing works by members of the Baker Artist Portfolio.
“First Thursdays is our love letter to Baltimore,” said Sam Sessa, WTMD’s Director of Events. “Despite the challenges of rising costs, last season was a smashing success, and we’re thrilled to help bring this series back to the city this summer.”
First Thursday Festival Series began two decades ago in Mt. Vernon Place. It moved to Canton Waterfront Park in 2014 and has featured free concerts by indie artists such as Los Lonely Boys, Joan Osborne and Lake Street Dive, as well as rising stars the Black Pumas, Waxahatchee and many others.
