This weekend in Baltimore, there’s an exciting lineup of events, from Juneteenth festivities to the 50th celebration of AFRAM, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For those intrigued by the eccentric and unusual, the Oddities & Curiosities Expo promises an entertaining experience.
Here’s a look at this weekend’s notable events:
“The Underground Railroad: Freedom Seekers on the B&O” Public Tour, Friday, June 19, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the B&O Railroad Museum. Join us to delve into the history of the Underground Railroad, featuring the documented experiences of 27 freedom seekers associated with the B&O Railroad.
AFRAM, Friday, June 19 through Sunday, June 21, from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Druid Hill Park. This weekend, commemorate 50 years of AFRAM with an array of live music, local vendors, engaging entertainers, children’s activities, African drumming, and mask-making workshops. This family-friendly gathering is among the largest African American festivals on the East Coast, and it is free to the public.
Juneteenth Celebration at Benjamin Banneker Historical Park, Friday, June 19, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, 300 Oella Avenue, Catonsville. Attendees can enjoy live music, immersive history presentations, local vendors, and more. While admission and parking are free, registration is encouraged. (Visitors will need to create an account on the Baltimore County Rec & Parks site to register.)
Poorly Drawn Pets Art Show, Friday, June 19, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Blue Pit BBQ & Whiskey Bar. Come appreciate and perhaps purchase whimsical pet-themed artworks at this fundraiser supporting BARCS Animal Shelter.
2000s Dance Party, Friday, June 19, at 8 p.m. at Ottobar. Relive the music of the early 2000s with hits from artists such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, Britney Spears, and more. The DJ will be taking requests throughout the night!
Artful Celebrations: Juneteenth @ AVAM, Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the American Visionary Art Museum. Celebrate Juneteenth by examining the legacy of Black artists, with a free guided tour showcasing Black visionaries, in addition to a talk featuring local artist and entrepreneur Sean Ramon Montague of Ethnicitees LLC, who will also have a pop-up shop at the event.
(pray) Opening Night, Saturday, June 20, at 7:30 p.m. at Baltimore Center Stage, 700 North Calvert Street. The Off-Broadway production of (pray) runs from June 13 through July 5, with its opening on June 20. This choreopoem draws on the energy of a Sunday Baptist Church service, exploring the interplay of spirituality and responsibility to past generations.
Summer Solstice Stroll, Saturday, June 20, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Maryland Zoo. Discover how various animals adapt to the extended summer nights while celebrating the season’s longest day with special giraffe interactions, refreshing popsicles, and a guided tour led by the Zoo’s educators.
Solstice Gala, Saturday, June 20, from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Maryland Science Center. Join in celebrating 50 years of the Maryland Science Center with engaging science demonstrations, live music performances, and an inclusive selection of food and beverages.
Baltimore Oddities & Curiosities Expo, Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, at the Baltimore Convention Center. Delve into the fascinating and quirky realm of the Oddities & Curiosities Expo, featuring a variety of vendors, dealers, artists, and small businesses displaying an array of unique items, including taxidermied creatures, horror-themed pieces, medical oddities, bones, and funeral memorabilia.
Motown & More, Sunday, June 21, at 7:30 p.m. at the Gordon Center for the Performing Arts. Celebrate Father’s Day with the timeless sounds of Motown in a performance by The Legacy Lives, taking audiences on a memorable musical journey.
