What's On in Baltimore

Home to an ever-increasing young population, Baltimore plays host to an eclectic range of events throughout the year. From music festivals and food shows to sporting events and street parties, the events calendar in Baltimore is incredibly varied. Newcomers to Baltimore will also learn that each suburb also proudly puts on its own events that draw in crowds from beyond the city. So expats and new arrivals will never be short of something to do in Baltimore

Narrowing down a list of the best events can be hard, but here are a few of the Charm City’s most popular annual celebrations. 

Annual events in Baltimore

Preakness Stakes (May)

Held at the storied Pimlico Race Course, this event is an excuse for Baltimoreans to get dolled up and have a flutter on the horses. A highlight of Baltimore’s summer, attendees continue to soak up the party atmosphere at this concert which usually has an impressive line-up, including international musicians. 

Baltimore Pride (June)

This colourful event celebrates Baltimore’s LGBTQ+ community and is the largest Pride festival in the state of Maryland. The festival kicks off with a massive street parade and ends in block parties that carry on throughout the night. It also includes a family-friendly concert that takes place at Druid Hill Park.

HONFest (June)

This unique Charm City event focuses on the role played by working-class women throughout Baltimore’s history. The Baltimore suburb of Hampden comes to life as more than 100 vendors, artists and entertainers take to the streets. HONFest is an event not to be missed and a highlight on the city’s events calendar.

Independence Day Celebrations (July)

Being the birthplace of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’, it is no great surprise that Baltimore goes all out in celebration of Independence Day. The best places to see the spectacular fireworks display is either at the Top of the World Observation Level or anywhere on the harbour. For a celebration that honours the country’s history in a more traditional way head to Fort McHenry.

Chesapeake Crab Festival (August)

Baltimore is famous for its crab, and this is said to be the world’s largest festival of its kind. Held at Inner Harbor, people travel from neighbouring cities to sample the best, freshest crab that Baltimore has to offer. Festivalgoers also get to taste local wines and craft beers and will be entertained by local musicians.