January 2011
Plungefest: Polar Bear Plunge
Saturday, January 29
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sandy Point State Park, 1100 East College Parkway, Annapolis
Admission: Free to spectators. Plungers must raise $50 in pledges.
410-789-6677, ext. 503
www.plungemd.com/index.php
Experience the coolest event of the year. For just $50 in donations, plunge participants take a chilly dip in the Chesapeake Bay to raise money for Special Olympics Maryland. Not ready to bare it all? Then join us—fully clothed—under the huge heated festival tent with vendor booths, live entertainment, food court, carnival amusements, sandcastle building, a “kids zone” and much more.
February 2011
Black History Month
Annapolis-wide
410-267-8146
www.annapolis.org
African Americans have played a significant role in the history of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County for more than 350 years. What better time to explore their legacy and contributions than during Black History Month? Stop by Historic Annapolis Foundation Museum (99 Main Street) for an African-American audio tour, or take a guided walking tour that traces the national and international impact African Americans have had on the destination over the centuries. These are but a few of the many events and activities that will be saluting African-American heritage throughout the month.
African-American Heritage Tours
Saturdays, February 5, 12, 19 and 26
1:00—3:00 p.m.
Tours depart from the Information Booth at Annapolis City Dock
Tickets: $16/Adult, $4/Child ages 3-11, 2 & under free. Reservations required.
www.watermarkcruises.com
Trace the rich and authentic journey of African-Americans in Annapolis and explore their contributions both nationally and internationally. Key historical sites include the Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial and the Thurgood Marshall Memorial. Watermark offers this tour in partnership with the Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Foundation.
Annapolis Restaurant Week
Monday-Sunday, February 21-27
Participating restaurants in and around Annapolis
www.annapolisrestaurantweek.com
Food lovers won’t want to miss this seven-day dining extravaganza featuring three course, fixed-price menus for both lunch and dinner at some of the most popular restaurants in Annapolis. Nearly 40 restaurants are expected to participate in this annual culinary event that provides the perfect opportunity for sampling new restaurants and enjoying old favorites in the heart of Maryland’s capital city.
March 2011
Annapolis Oyster Roast & Sock Burning
Saturday, March 19
11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Annapolis Maritime Museum, Annapolis
Admission: $20/person, $5 /kids age 5-12, kids under 5 free.
410-295-0104
www.amaritime.org
Celebrate spring with a family-friendly feast of the Chesapeake’s most cherished bivalve. Festivities begin with the burning of the socks – a spring tradition at the Maritime Museum – and go on to include live music, shucking and cooking demonstrations, an oyster shucking contest and family activities and exhibits that highlight the importance of the oyster to the health of the Bay and the area’s unique maritime heritage. For a modest additional fee, enjoy raw, steamed, fried and grilled oysters and beverages.
Maryland Day Celebration
Friday-Sunday, March 25-27
Sites throughout the Four Rivers Heritage Area
Admission: free or nominal $1 entry fee
www.marylandday.org
Rediscover Maryland’s history in the Four Rivers Heritage Area with a fun-filled weekend festival highlighting the region's unique heritage. Local cultural and heritage sites open their doors to offer special activities and tours for the entire family. Stroll through downtown Annapolis or visit Historic London Town and beautiful South County for exciting educational tours, costumed re-enactors, art exhibits, kids' activities, and more. Visit the website for a complete list of participating venues.
April 2011
29th Annual St. John’s / USNA Croquet Match
Saturday, April 30 (Rain Date: May 1)
St. John’s College Campus Front Lawn
60 College Avenue, Annapolis
Free
410-626-2539
www.stjohnscollege.edu/events
The “Johnnies” and the “Mids” meet in this annual rite of spring as they vie for the coveted Annapolis Cup. The St. John's vs., U.S. Naval Academy Croquet Match is one of the most unique sporting events and lawn parties in the region. It is also quite possibly the world's most popular croquet match, rivaling even the Croquet World Championships in numbers of attendees. Spectators dressed in Gatsby-like fashion picnic on the lawn, swing dance, listen to great music and cheer on their favorite school during this rain or shine event.
Wednesday Night Sailboat Races
Wednesday evenings, beginning April 27 through early September
Annapolis Harbor
410-263-9279
www.annapolisyc.com
Annapolis’ famed Wednesday Night Sailboat Races kick off this month. Grab a dockside seat for the midweek races where some 150 boats sail around several marks in the Bay before heading back into Spa Creek for the finish in front of the Annapolis Yacht Club. For many, the post-race party is the official beginning of the weekend.
May 2011
May Day
Sunday, May 1
Downtown Annapolis
Downtown Annapolis residents and merchants welcome spring by decorating their doorways with baskets of blooming flowers. Some 20 volunteers from the Garden Club of Old Annapolis-Towne judge the entries, and winners are invited to the annual Garden Club Tea.
First Sunday Arts Festival
Sunday, May 1
Noon – 5:00 p.m.
First block of West and Calvert Streets, Annapolis
410-741-3267
www.firstsundayarts.com
Join in the fun when artists, crafters, musicians, dance troupes, theater groups and street performers gather to celebrate the arts. On the first Sunday of the month, thousands of visitors take over the street, browsing the handcrafted, original arts and crafts of local and regional vendors. The free, family-friendly event is a perfect way to enjoy an outdoor afternoon in historic Annapolis.
Wednesday Night Sailboat Races
Wednesday evenings through early September
Annapolis Harbor
410-263-9279
www.annapolisyc.com
Grab a dockside seat for Annapolis’ famed midweek races where some 150 boats sail around several marks in the Bay before heading back into Spa Creek for the finish in front of the Annapolis Yacht Club. For many, the post-race party is the official beginning of the weekend.
.05K Run Across the Eastport Bridge
A Saturday in May (TBD)
Spa Creek Bridge, Annapolis
www.themre.org
Ready to test your mettle? Runners, joggers, walkers, strollers, humans and dogs of all ages are invited to participate in the Maritime Republic of Eastport's grueling bridge run. Yes, it's .05K – point zero-five-K. Described as "the least challenging athletic event ever conceived" by Runner's World Magazine, you won’t want to miss the fun. Some competitors have taken as long as five minutes to complete the course!
USNA Commissioning Week
May 23-27
www.usna.edu
Each year, approximately 1,000 midshipmen graduate and receive their commissions from the U.S. Naval Academy. Witness the traditions and history of the week. Watch the Blue Angels fly high over the Severn River on Wednesday. Grab seats along the Academy seawall for this 2:00 p.m. show of military might that helps mark the annual rite of passage.
Chesapeake Bays Blues Festival
Saturday-Sunday, May 21-22
Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis
www.bayblues.org
The blues are back in town for the 10th time at Sandy Point State Park. Recognized nationally as one of the premier blues festivals in the world, the festival features an all-star line-up that jams on the shores of the Chesapeake in the name of good fun and even better deeds. ALL net proceeds to charity. In 2010, the event raised $50,000 for local charities.
Annapolis Nautical Flea Market
Saturday-Sunday, May 28-29
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Annapolis
410-268-8828
www.usboat.com
Spend the day with the family browsing the many vendor booths in search of a special treasure. The "Boat for Sale by Owner Only" flea market features previously owned boats looking for a new home, as well as well-loved nautical items. The flea market is a great way to practice sustainable boating.
Summer at City Dock
Sundays, from Memorial Day to Labor Day
Afternoons
City Dock, Annapolis
Admission: Free
410-268-1636
www.summeratcitydock.com
Check out Annapolis' newest performing arts and live music fest each Sunday at City Dock.
June 2011
Wednesday Night Sailboat Races
Wednesday evenings through early September
Annapolis Harbor
410-263-9279
www.annapolisyc.com
Grab a dockside seat for Annapolis’ famed midweek races where some 150 boats sail around several marks in the Bay before heading back into Spa Creek for the finish in front of the Annapolis Yacht Club. For many, the post-race party is the official beginning of the weekend.
Annapolis Greek Festival
Friday - Sunday, June 3-5
11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. (11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Sunday)
Ss. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 2747 Riva Road, Annapolis
Admission: Free
410-573-2072
www.annapolisgreekfestival.org
Grab a taste of Athens, right here in Annapolis when you and your family join in the fun at this annual event. Enjoy performances by Greek dance groups, sample Greek foods, listen to Greek music, tour the beautiful Greek Orthodox Church, and so much more.
First Sunday Arts Festival
Sunday, June 5
Noon – 5:00 p.m.
First block of West and Calvert Streets, Annapolis
410-741-3267
www.firstsundayarts.com
Join in the fun when artists, crafters, musicians, dance troupes, theater groups and street performers gather to celebrate the arts. On the first Sunday of the month, thousands of visitors take over the street, browsing the handcrafted, original arts and crafts of local and regional vendors. The free, family-friendly event is a perfect way to enjoy an outdoor afternoon in historic Annapolis.
Summer at City Dock
Sundays, from Memorial Day to Labor Day
Afternoons
City Dock, Annapolis
Admission: Free
410-268-1636
www.summeratcitydock.com
Check out Annapolis' newest performing arts and live music fest each Sunday at City Dock.
Annapolis Arts & Crafts Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 11-12
Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, Annapolis
410-263-4012
www.annapolisartsandcraftsfestival.com
Don't miss the second annual outdoor celebration of the arts. View juried works by approximately 150 of the regions’ best artists and craftsmen. Sample fine cuisine and select wines, enjoy live entertainment and take a walk along the brick lined streets of historic Annapolis, a city that American Style magazine recently recognized as one of the nation’s top 25 arts destinations.
Eastport A Rockin’
Saturday, June 25
11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Annapolis Maritime Museum, 723 Second Street, Annapolis
410-916-5500
www.eastportarockin.com
One day, three stages, 27 bands. Created to expose local music to a larger audience, Eastport a Rockin' attracts attendees from throughout the neighborhood and across the region and is known as the local music festival of the summer. From rock to folk, to roots to jazz, to bluegrass to funk, the breadth of music is sure to please everyone. Streets and sidewalks are lined with vendors featuring local artisans, craft makers, non-profit organizations, entertainment and much more. The always-popular Kids Area features a moon bounce, face painters, tattoo artists, laser tag, cotton candy and other great family-friendly activities.
July 2011
First Sunday Arts Festival
Sunday, July 3
Noon – 5:00 p.m.
First block of West and Calvert Streets, Annapolis
410-741-3267
www.firstsundayarts.com
Join in the fun when artists, crafters, musicians, dance troupes, theater groups and street performers gather to celebrate the arts. On the first Sunday of the month, thousands of visitors take over the street, browsing the handcrafted, original arts and crafts of local and regional vendors. The free, family-friendly event is a perfect way to enjoy an outdoor afternoon in historic Annapolis.
Summer at City Dock
Sundays, from Memorial Day to Labor Day
Afternoons
City Dock, Annapolis
Admission: Free
410-268-1636
www.summeratcitydock.com
Check out Annapolis' newest performing arts and live music fest each Sunday at City Dock.
Fourth of July Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony
Monday, July 4
9:30 a.m. – Naturalization Ceremony
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Family Celebration
William Paca House and Garden, 186 Prince George Street, Annapolis
Admission: Free
www.annapolis.org
Celebrate our nation's birthday at the home of Declaration of Independence signer William Paca. The day begins as immigrants become American citizens in a moving Naturalization Ceremony. Visitors will enjoy tours of Paca’s home, live musical performances, and a Revolutionary War encampment. Costumed interpreters portraying Paca and members of his household bring the past alive. Children's activities include patriotic crafts and the opportunity to add their John Hancock to the Declaration of Independence with a quill pen.
Annapolis July 4th Parade
Monday, July 4
6:30 p.m.
www.annapolis.gov
Come join the fun! In addition to the traditional fireworks display, the July 4th Celebration includes an old-fashioned community parade with thousands of viewers lining the route. Annapolis’ patriotic salute to our nation is always a crowd pleaser.
Wednesday Night Sailboat Races
Wednesday evenings through early September
Annapolis Harbor
410-263-9279
www.annapolisyc.com
Grab a dockside seat for Annapolis’ famed midweek races where some 150 boats sail around several marks in the Bay before heading back into Spa Creek for the finish in front of the Annapolis Yacht Club. For many, the post-race party is the official beginning of the weekend.
August 2011
Wednesday Night Sailboat Races
Wednesday evenings through early September
Annapolis Harbor
410-263-9279
www.annapolisyc.com
Grab a dockside seat for Annapolis’ famed midweek races where some 150 boats sail around several marks in the Bay before heading back into Spa Creek for the finish in front of the Annapolis Yacht Club. For many, the post-race party is the official beginning of the weekend.
66th Annual Rotary Club of Annapolis Crab Feast
Friday, August 5
5:00—8:00 p.m.
Navy-Marine Corps Stadium, Annapolis
800-327-1982
www.annapolisrotary.org/crabfeast
Arguably the largest crab feast in the world, nearly 3,000 crab lovers gather each year to feast on the Chesapeake Bay’s bounty. In addition to large #1 male crabs – the big ones – and Maryland vegetable crab soup, there is plenty of food and drink available for non-seafood lovers as well.
First Sunday Arts Festival
Sunday, August 7
Noon – 5:00 p.m.
First block of West and Calvert Streets, Annapolis
410-741-3267
www.firstsundayarts.com
Join in the fun when artists, crafters, musicians, dance troupes, theater groups and street performers gather to celebrate the arts. On the first Sunday of the month, thousands of visitors take over the street, browsing the handcrafted, original arts and crafts of local and regional vendors. The free, family-friendly event is a perfect way to enjoy an outdoor afternoon in historic Annapolis.
Summer at City Dock
Sundays, from Memorial Day to Labor Day
Afternoons
City Dock, Annapolis
Admission: Free
410-268-1636
www.summeratcitydock.com
Check out Annapolis' newest performing arts and live music fest each Sunday at City Dock.
Annapolis Art Walk
Thursday, August 18
5:00—9:00 p.m.
Galleries throughout downtown Annapolis
Admission: free
www.artinannapolis.com
Peek over artists’ shoulders and watch them work. More than 20 galleries in downtown Annapolis host new art exhibits and feature artists working in oil, watercolor, ceramics, woodturning, sculpture, jewelry, handcrafts and more during this festive evening of visual arts. Musicians abound around town and the galleries serve light refreshments, creating an enjoyable summer evening for art lovers. Discover why American Style Magazine has consistently designated Annapolis a "Top 25 Arts Destination."
Annapalooza Music and Arts Festival
Saturday, August 27
www.annapalooza.org
Voted Annapolis' Best Festival of 2010 by Bay Weekly Magazine readers, Annapalooza (uh-nap-uh-looz-uh) is back for its second year, promoting and advancing the homegrown and multifaceted talent here in the Chesapeake and mid-Atlantic region. Multiple stages, talented bands/performers, art vendors, food, and so much more come together for a daylong event that celebrates the area's extraordinary music and art scene.
Maryland Renaissance Festival
Weekends, August 27-28 through October 22-23
10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Revel Grove, Crownsville, MD
www.rennfest.com
Celebrating its 35th season at Revel Grove, the Maryland Renaissance Festival has become the region's premier outdoor event and the second largest Renaissance Festival in the country. The 22-acre, re-creation of a 16th century English village features food, fun, fine-crafts and frivolity. Five pubs, ten major stages, a jousting arena and so much more. Let Merriment Abound!
September 2011
Summer at City Dock
Sundays, from Memorial Day to Labor Day
Afternoons
City Dock, Annapolis
Admission: Free
410-268-1636
www.summeratcitydock.com
Check out Annapolis' newest performing arts and live music fest each Sunday at City Dock.
First Sunday Arts Festival
Sunday, September 4
Noon – 5:00 p.m.
First block of West and Calvert Streets, Annapolis
410-741-3267
www.firstsundayarts.com
Join in the fun when artists, crafters, musicians, dance troupes, theater groups and street performers gather to celebrate the arts. On the first Sunday of the month, thousands of visitors take over the street, browsing the handcrafted, original arts and crafts of local and regional vendors. The free, family-friendly event is a perfect way to enjoy an outdoor afternoon in historic Annapolis.
Annapolis in Love
A September weekend (TBD)
Downtown Annapolis
www.annapolisinlove.com
The citywide event is designed to highlight the romance of the destination. Featuring cruises, contests, concerts, and packages, Annapolis in Love celebrates being in love, looking for love, and loving life – all in an effort to demonstrate that Annapolis is the most romantic city in America.
Wednesday Night Sailboat Races
Wednesday evenings through early September
Annapolis Harbor
410-263-9279
www.annapolisyc.com
Grab a dockside seat for Annapolis’ famed midweek races where some 150 boats sail around several marks in the Bay before heading back into Spa Creek for the finish in front of the Annapolis Yacht Club. For many, the post-race party is the official beginning of the weekend.
Maryland Seafood Festival
Friday-Sunday, September 9-11
410-268-1437
www.mdseafoodfestival.com
Some 20,000 visitors from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region are expected to join in the family fun by celebrating the 44th anniversary of a tasty and entertaining Annapolis tradition. The famed Crab Soup Cook-off draws the city’s greatest restaurateurs and chefs in a classically Maryland showdown.
Anne Arundel County Fair
Wednesday-Sunday, September 14-18
AA County Fairgrounds, 1450 Generals Hwy, Crownsville, MD
410-923-3400
www.aacountyfair.org
In its 59th year, the family event includes carnival rides, Arundel Idol contest, 4H exhibits and so much more.
Paint Annapolis
Thursday-Sunday, Late September
Outdoor locations throughout historic downtown Annapolis
www.paintannapolis.com
Be among the thousands of art lovers, tourists, outdoor enthusiasts, and curiosity seekers who watch some thirty plein air landscape artists paint on the streets of historic Annapolis for three straight days. Prizes are awarded to the artists who best capture the spirit of Annapolis.
Kunta Kinte Festival of African Heritage
Saturday, September 24
City Dock, Annapolis
410-349-0338
www.kuntakinte.org
Dedicated to preserving the roots of African culture, the annual festival is dedicated to the memory of Kunta Kinte, Alex Haley’s ancestor and focus of his best selling saga, Roots. City Dock, where Kunta Kinte arrived in Annapolis in the 1700’s, is transformed into an African village and marketplace with vendors selling traditional goods and foods. Watch African dance, make a tribal mask, listen to storytellers and dance to the beat of live music.
October 2011
Oktoberfest in West Annapolis
Sunday, October 2
West Annapolis
www.westannapolisbusiness.org
Join the festivities at one of Annapolis’ premier street fairs where everyone is invited to be German for the day. Activities include authentic German food, vendor booths, music, dancing, beer-drinking and a kids’ zone.
First Sunday Arts Festival
Sunday, October 2
Noon – 5:00 p.m.
First block of West and Calvert Streets, Annapolis
410-741-3267
www.firstsundayarts.com
Join in the fun when artists, crafters, musicians, dance troupes, theater groups and street performers gather to celebrate the arts. On the first Sunday of the month, thousands of visitors take over the street, browsing the handcrafted, original arts and crafts of local and regional vendors. The free, family-friendly event is a perfect way to enjoy an outdoor afternoon in historic Annapolis.
42nd Annual United States Sailboat Show
Thursday-Monday, October 6-10
City Dock, Annapolis
www.usboat.com
America’s Sailing Capital celebrates the world's largest in-water sailboat show featuring exclusively new sailboats. The world-famous event includes something for everyone: seminars, boating attire and accessories, foul weather gear and boats of all sizes.
40th Annual United States Powerboat Show
Thursday-Sunday, October 13-16
City Dock, Annapolis
www.usboat.com
Experience the exciting world of powerboats, from luxurious motor yachts to high performance boats and more. Visit the nation's oldest in-water powerboat show for seminars, personal tours and an up close look at the latest in boat designs and marine technology. Bring the family, and spend the day enjoying the many shops and restaurants in historic Annapolis.
November 2011
Annapolis by Candlelight
Friday-Saturday, November 4-5
Downtown Annapolis
410-267-8146
www.annapolis.org
Experience 21st-century living within four centuries of architecture. Follow the luminaria to some of the most beautiful private homes in Annapolis’ Historic District for an exclusive tour during this annual showcase and celebration of the season. Sponsored by Historic Annapolis Foundation.
Maritime Republic of Eastport’s Tug o’ War
Saturday, November 5
Eastport & Annapolis
www.themre.org
Drawing on a decades-old rivalry, the annual charitable event features the longest tug-of-war over a body of water in the world, pitting downtown Annapolitans against the rebels of the mock-breakaway Maritime Republic of Eastport. Dubbed the Slaughter across the Water, it features a 1700-foot rope, 450 tuggers, and one-thousand spectators. Downtown Eastport and Annapolis take on a festival-like atmosphere beginning at 11:00 a.m. Tugging begins promptly (more or less) at the Crack o' Noon.
Lights on the Bay
Late November through early January
Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis
443-481-3161
Don't miss the spectacular drive-through holiday lights show at Sandy Point State Park on the Chesapeake Bay. Each winter new exhibits are featured along with the ever popular Dino-lights, Winter Fairy Tale, Teddy Bear, and Maryland-themed light displays. Proceeds benefit the Anne Arundel Medical Center.
December 2011
State House by Candlelight
Friday-Saturday, December 2-3
7:00—9:00 p.m.
Maryland State House, State Circle, Annapolis
410-974-3400
Enjoy choral, band, and ensemble performances by the glow of the official State Christmas tree in the oldest State House in continuous legislative use in the nation. Individuals 16 and older must present photo identification.
Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade
Saturday, December 10
6:00—8:00 p.m.
Annapolis Harbor and Spa Creek
410-267-9549
www.eastportyc.org
Don’t miss the annual magic that takes place on the waters of the Annapolis Harbor. Boats suddenly appear out of the cold wintry night illuminated with thousands of colored lights and crewed by jolly revelers. Families and friends gather at their favorite viewing spots along the waterfront to watch the spectacle and celebrate the holiday season. The Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade is one of Annapolis’ signature holiday events.
Annapolis New Year's Eve
Saturday, December 31
Downtown Annapolis
Head to downtown Annapolis for entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display that the entire family will enjoy.
The AAACCVB is a nonprofit, membership-based, destination marketing organization that generates revenues for the local economy by promoting Annapolis and Anne Arundel County to leisure and business travelers across the country and around the world.
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