Restaurants
The Iron Bridge Wine Company
Warm, cozy cafe presenting a seasonal New American menu & a celebrated wine collection. 10435 MD-108, Columbia, MD 21044
Phone: (410) 997-3456| Web: ironbridgewines.com
Water Street Seafood
Where classy meets casual for fresh seafood dishes and top-notch customer servic
654 Water St, Havre De Grace, MD 21078
Phone: (443) 502-8855 | Web: waterstreetseafoodhdg.com
Charleston
Celebrated pick for New American plates & a well-curated wine list in white-tablecloth environs.
1000 Lancaster St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: (410) 332-7373| Web: charlestonrestaurant.com
Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?
Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.
Rusty Scupper
Local landmark serving upscale regional seafood dishes in a waterfront setting for over 30 years.
402 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD
The Turn House
Modern, roomy restaurant with 4 fireplaces serving innovative seasonal fare.
11130 Willow Bottom Drive, Columbia, MD
Coakley’s Pub
Folksy Irish bar offering classic grill fare & pub grub in a cozy dark-wood room with TVs.
414 St John St #406, Havre De Grace, MD
Sotto Sopra
Farm-to-table contemporary Italian cuisine & wines are served in an art-filled, elegant townhouse.
405 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD
Stanford Grill
Casually stylish restaurant with a patio featuring contemporary fare along with live jazz.
8900 Stanford Blvd, Columbia, MD
La Cucina
Family restaurant known for full meals, pizza, pasta & sub sandwiches served in a homey space.
103 N Washington St, Havre De Grace, MD
La Cuchara
Elegant eatery with an intimate atmosphere serving Basque fare such as pintxos & tapas.
3600 Clipper Mill Road, Baltimore, MD
The White Oak Tavern
New American eatery & beer garden offering many craft brews on tap, plus locally sourced pub grub.
10030 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD
Lin’s Hibachi
Japanese sushi, steak grilled tableside & cocktails offered in a contemporary restaurant.
1007 Pulaski Hwy, Havre De Grace, MD
EVENTS 2024
Oct 5-6
Upper Chesapeake Bay Pride
Upper Chesapeake Bay Pride provides unwavering advocacy and support for queer (LGBTQIA+) people, communities, and their families in Harford and Cecil counties. The Upper Chesapeake region is a safe and enriching place for queer (LGBTQIA+) people to live and work. Learn more at ucbpride.org.
Oct 10-14
Annapolis Sailboat Show
This annual celebration of sailing features floating docks lined with sailboats from manufacturers around the world. Multihulls, monohulls, cruisers, racers, sailing dinghies and more. Show tents line the shore, stocked with the latest in nautical gear and accessories, electronics, communication equipment, sails, rigging, education, charter companies, clubs and more. Learn more at annapolisboatshows.com.
Oct 26
OysterFest
At OysterFest, you’re invited to enjoy oysters served a variety of ways, along with other local fare, craft beer, and spirits, plus fun for the whole family with live music on two stages, an oyster stew competition, a full schedule of demonstrations and presentations, children’s activities, and more. Learn more and join us now at cbmm.org.
Nov 23
Eastern Shore Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival
Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival highlights artisans and craftspeople who come from near and far to exhibit and sell coastal and sea glass related jewelry, home décor, art, and more. The Holiday Edition
Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival offers fun for the whole family with fantastic shopping, great food and drinks, live music, and so much more. Learn more at ophiuroidea.com.
EVENTS 2024-25
Nov 8-10
Easton Waterfowl Festival
This three-day festival brings thousands of visitors to Easton, Maryland each fall to enjoy wildlife art from renowned master artists, plus a variety of events and vendors, including retriever demonstrations, Dock Dogs competitions, goose and duck calling contests, street musicians, and Eastern Shore cuisine. Events are held at various venues throughout town. Shuttle buses are available to help you get around. Learn more at waterfowlfestival.org.
Dec 5/12
Midnight Madness
Downtown Annapolis Partnership proudly presents Midnight Madness—a Historic Downtown Annapolis holiday tradition. We will adorn the streets and participating storefronts with holiday decorations, trees, garlands, snowflakes, bows, and lights to create a Downtown Winter Wonderland and free on-the-street entertainment. Learn more and join us now at visitannapolis.org.
Dec 14
Eastport Yacht Club’s Lights Parade
It’s a beloved Annapolis tradition! Every year on the second Saturday in December, magic happens on the water of the Annapolis Harbor—boats suddenly appear out of the cold winter night illuminated with thousands of colored lights and crewed by jolly revelers! Learn more about this event and join us this December at eastportyc.org.
Jan 10-12 2025
The Chesapeake Bay Boat Show
The Chesapeake Bay Boat Show will feature over 30 Maryland boat dealers showcasing new boats and marine equipment, including sport fishing boats, performance boats, ski boats, cruisers, cabin cruisers, and more. The show will also include entertainment, food and beverages, free educational seminars, and plenty of free parking – all
EVENTS 2025
in a socially responsible atmosphere. Learn more about this event at thechesapeakebayboatshow.com.
Jan TDB 2025
Harbor Point Ice Festival
Head out to the Harbor Point Ice Festival and show your love for all things Maryland! Here’s your chance to snap a photo with a giant Ravensthemed ice display, take a ride down a Mr. Trash Wheel ice slide, grab a seat on the frozen version of the legendary “The Greatest City in America” bench, and explore other creations that symbolize the heart of Maryland. Learn more and join us this year at harborpoint.com.
Feb 16 2025
Chesapeake Fire & Ice
Chesapeake Fire & Ice will again feature dozens of ice sculptures spread throughout Easton’s historic district. The event will kick off Friday night with live music and ice carvings on February 16. Outdoor ice skating will be open by nightfall and the streets will be alive with fun! Live carvings will be all over town, including one sponsored by presenting sponsors Preston Automotive Group and Bay Security/Safehouse, LLC – all outside and easy to view with a stroll through town! Learn more at discovereaston.com.
Feb TBD 2025
Annapolis Restaurant Week
The Downtown Annapolis Partnership (DAP) and Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (VAAAC) invite you to mark your calendars now for Annapolis Restaurant Week. This year restaurants have come together to deliver Annapolis’ food and drink scene the way you want it. From carryout to dining out and gift cards to save for later, in the event’s 16th year, this is the one to Go All Out. Learn more at visitannapolis.org.
Mar TBD 2025
St. Michaels ChocolateFest
The 7th Annual St. Michaels ChocolateFest will include restaurant
chefs conjuring up amazing delectable special menu items to showcase chocolate inspired dishes and desserts. Our inns and bed and breakfasts will feature chocolate inspired get-away packages. Chocolate lovers will enjoy shopping throughout town sampling amazing artisan chocolates, desserts, locally crafted wine, beer and spirits. Learn more and join us at stmichaelsmd.org.
Apr 5 2025
Eagle Festival
The Eagle Festival returns with live birds-of-prey programs, Refuge tours and eagle prowls, children’s activities and more! You can find the schedule of events on the Blackwater NWR website. The Wildlife Drive and events are free on March 16. The eagle population at Blackwater NWR this winter has been very healthy, and in March, adults will be actively nesting at the Refuge, so it’s a great time to visit! Learn more at friendsofblackwater.org.
Apr 11-13 2025
Bay Bridge Boat Show
Climb aboard a wide array of powerboats of every style and size – from fishing boats and trawlers to pontoon boats and luxury cruisers. With plenty of on-site parking available, food and beer stations, and live entertainment, the Bay Bridge Boat Show at Safe Harbor Narrows Point is guaranteed to be a great day on the Bay. Learn more and join us at annapolisboatshows.com.
Apr 25-27 2025
Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show
The Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show returns to the historic seaport town of Annapolis every April to showcase new and brokerage boats including catamarans, monohulls, family cruisers, daysailers, and inflatables. While climbing aboard the great line-up of sailboats is the major draw, there is so much more to see. Guests are invited to meet with boating clubs and charter companies, shop gear and equipment, and ring in the new season with fellow sailors and marine professionals. Learn more at annapolisboatshows.com.
Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:
1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~ In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.
2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~ Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,
continued on page 16
EVENTS 2025
May 3 2025
Kinetic Sculpture Race
For more than 20 years the American Visionary Art Museum‘s Kinetic Sculpture Race has been a beloved tradition. Teams of inventive artists build and pilot original sculptures over land and sea from one end of Baltimore to another. The race is a day of good-humored merrymaking, fun mishaps in engineering and creative costumes. Learn more at baltimore.org
May TBD 2025
Charm City Bluegrass Festival
What could be better than sitting outside, listening to live music and enjoying a local brew? For ten years, the best in national and regional
cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.
3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.
4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~ Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.
5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.
6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.
7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.
8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.
Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!
THE PRIDE CENTER OF MARYLAND
The Pride Center of Maryland offers over 30 programs and services that reflect our dedication to ensuring Maryland’s sexual and gender minority community have equal access to care, services, and a space where they can be their authentic selves. Each year, we serve thousands of Maryland residents in order to fulfill our commitment of uniting, empowering, and advocating on behalf of sexual and gender minorities of Baltimore and Central Maryland. Web: Pridecentermd.org
UPPER CHESAPEAKE BAY PRIDE
Our goal is to continue to find ways for our community to connect and celebrate who we are not just one day, but throughout the year. Now, more than ever, it is important to foster relationships and help those that are feeling isolated or alone. UCBPride is committed to helping all those that want to come out to feel safe, be safe and be loved. Web: ucbpride.com
HOCO PRIDE
Howard County Pride celebrates and unites the LGBTQ+ community. Our events and programs advocate, support, and educate. It is our hope that the LGBTQ+ community in Howard County, Maryland finds a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment every time they are at a HoCo Pride event. Join us in celebrating your identity with our community! Web: howardcountypride.org
PFLAG HOCO
We promote the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, as well as their families and friends. Web: pflaghoco.org
NAMI HOWARD COUNTY
At NAMI Howard County we work to ensure that gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning, or intersex (LGBT) individuals diagnosed with a mental illness have access to the same sensitivity and quality of services as anyone else. Web: namihowardcounty.org
EVENTS 2025
talent from across the old time, bluegrass and roots music traditions have come together for the Charm City Bluegrass Festival. Learn more at musicfestivalwizard.com.
May 26 2025
Wine Festival
Are you looking for things to do in Baltimore in May? Welcome to Wine Village in Baltimore, the newest wine festival at the Inner Harbor. Following Germany’s traditional and casual wine events, it is finally time for Baltimore to get a taste of them. Enjoy a wine and food market in addition to local and international wines as well as European delicacies, summer appetizers and desserts. Learn more at baltimore-wine.com.
Jun TBD 2025
AFRAM
This free, family-oriented celebration of Baltimore’s African American heritage is typically held Juneteenth weekend and features music, entertainers, children’s activities, African drumming, carnival mask making and more. Learn more at aframbaltimore.com.
Jun 16 2025
Baltimore Pride
Baltimore’s diverse neighborhoods celebrate LGBTQ+ culture all year long, but residents turn out in droves at the annual Baltimore Pride. As one of the oldest Pride celebrations in the country, the annual event features a series of parades, such as the pet parade and high heel parade. You can also meet and mingle at the block party or the family-friendly festival featuring music, drag and food trucks. Learn more at baltimorepride.org.
Jul 4 2025
Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival
This free waterfront festival was founded for residents of Cherry Hill, a culturally and economically diverse neighborhood along the Patapsco River, to celebrate their community’s artistic legacy. Performers represent
EVENTS 2025
a wide range of genres from soul to gospel to reggae, salsa and more, and activities include historic reenactments, fashion shows and a fireworks show. The festival is free, but attendees are encouraged to donate to the Cherry Hill Arts & Music Waterfront Festival Relief Fund to support educational supplies and opportunities for youth and their families. Learn more at baltimore.org.
Jul TBD 2025
Baltimore Restaurant Week
Presented by Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and Visit Baltimore, Baltimore Restaurant Week provides an affordable and exclusive taste of the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Restaurants participating throughout Baltimore’s neighborhoods will offer ten days of special prix-fixe menus for brunch, lunch and dinner. Learn more at baltimorepride.org.
Aug 2 2025
Artscape
Artscape is the nation’s largest free outdoor arts festival. Featuring interactive visual arts exhibits, musical performances, poetry workshops and street dance, Artscape is also a culinary showcase for Baltimore’s top food vendors. No matter what draws you, there’s plenty of fun for the whole family. Learn more at artscape.org.
Sep TBD 2025
Baltimore Book Festival
This free literary arts celebration is a book lover’s dream come true. Featuring poetry readings, workshops, panel discussions and book signings, this is the place to revel in the spirit of the written word. Past festivals have featured appearances by chef and television host Carla Hall, poet Samantha Thornhill, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Jason Reynolds and Terry McMillan. Learn more at baltimorepride.org.
