As the crispness of October settles in, Baltimore is revving up for an action-packed weekend, filled with both spine-tingling and cheerful events to kick off the month.
No matter if you’re keen to indulge in classic horror films and honor the literary legacy of Edgar Allan Poe, or if you’re searching for some frightful fun for the younger crowd, there are activities suited for everyone’s taste.
Those who prefer to steer clear of Halloween-themed festivities will find plenty to enjoy as well. Events such as the New/Next Film Festival or a performance by standup comedian Chelsea Handler offer great alternatives.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the exciting events happening this weekend:
Thursday Night Fright, running from Thursdays, Oct. 1 through Oct. 15, at the Maryland Science Center. Doors open at 6 p.m., with movie screenings beginning at 8:05 p.m. Celebrate the Halloween season by watching three iconic horror films by John Carpenter, displayed on Maryland’s largest indoor screen.
New/Next Film Festival, occurring from Thursday, Oct. 1 to Sunday, Oct. 4, at The Charles Theatre. Hosted by Baltimore Public Media, this fourth annual festival will showcase over 160 films across five screens during its four-day run. More details can be found in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
ZooBoo, from Friday, Oct. 2 through Saturday, Oct. 31 at the Maryland Zoo. Throughout October, visitors can enjoy Halloween-themed activities including an inflatable corn maze, pumpkin patch, sack races, costume contests, and a trick-or-treating experience within the zoo.
9th Annual International Edgar Allan Poe Festival & Awards, set for Friday, Oct. 2 through Sunday, Oct. 4 at Lexington Market. In light of ongoing demolition near Poe House, this year’s festival will take place at Lexington Market. Attendees can look forward to special guest Victoria Price unveiling her father Vincent Price’s documentary, live performances, dramatic readings, and the renowned Black Cat Ball. For the full schedule of events, see this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
Mama I’m a Big Girl Now, taking place from Friday, Oct. 2 through Sunday, Oct. 4 at Baltimore Center Stage. Join performers Kerry Butler, Laura Bell Bundy, and Marissa Jaret Winokur as they reunite to celebrate the show that launched their careers, delivering musical numbers that fans will surely recognize.
Maritime Magic, on Friday, Oct. 2 at 6 p.m. in Douglass-Myers Maritime Park. This year marks the 38th edition of Maritime Magic, a fundraiser for Living Classrooms Foundation, featuring diverse food and beverage offerings from 50 local restaurants, as well as live music from Super Sonic Shorties, with The Fitzkee Brothers and Peter Levin as the opening act.
Stravinsky & Prokofiev with Heyward, occurring from Friday, Oct. 2 through Sunday, Oct. 4 at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall and Music Center at Strathmore. Conductor Jonathon Heyward leads the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra in an electrifying season opener filled with rhythm and vibrant energy.
Power to the People, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3 at Merriweather Post Pavilion. Tom Morello hosts a day celebrating peace, love, and justice through an impressive lineup featuring Bruce Springsteen along with performances by Foo Fighters, Dave Matthews, Joan Baez, Public Enemy, and many more. For additional insights, check out this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
See Beyond Festival, on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Maryland School for the Blind. Now in its fifth year, this free community event features live musical acts, food trucks, local vendors, and interactive activities that aim to engage attendees of all ages and abilities in the spirit of accessibility and inclusion.
The Curious Life of Edgar Allan Poe, on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Hippodrome Theatre. Blending neo-classical ballet with African Diaspora movement styles, this performance delves into the complex psyche of the author known for his foundational works in American horror literature.
The Smashing Pumpkins, happening on Saturday, Oct. 3, with doors opening at 7 p.m. and the concert starting at 8 p.m. at CFG Bank Arena. Join the band for “The Rats In A Cage Tour,” featuring a special retrospective set celebrating the 30th anniversary of their iconic album, “Mellon Collie And The Infinite Sadness,” alongside a selection of their greatest hits spanning four decades.
Outlander in Concert, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m. at Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. This officially sanctioned concert honors the acclaimed series Outlander, with a live orchestra performing its score alongside memorable scenes from the show.
Chelsea Handler, on Saturday, Oct. 3, with doors at 7 p.m. and the event commencing at 8 p.m. at Lyric Baltimore. The popular comedian, television personality, and author arrives in Baltimore as part of her The High and Mighty Tour. Handler is recognized for her seven New York Times best-selling works, including her latest book, “I’ll Have What She’s Having,” released in February 2025.
MJ Night, taking place on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 9 p.m. at Baltimore Soundstage. This tribute event is hosted by Club 90s and celebrates Michael Jackson’s legendary music through his greatest hits, remixes, and beloved dance floor anthems.
Market on Main, happening on Sunday, Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hunt Valley Towne Centre. This vibrant fall edition of Market on Main showcases local artisans, unique finds, delicious food and drinks, and a variety of autumn-themed festivities.
