The Rawlings-Blake Review #19: Baltimore's Big Summer Festivals

Baltimore is fortunate to be made up of people from every country in the world. As a result, every summer, Baltimore becomes a city of cultural festivals. From small neighborhood events to larger annual parades, we have an opportunity to celebrate our diversity just about every weekend.

Without a doubt, two of the highlights of every summer in Baltimore are the African-American Heritage Festival and Artscape. These two festivals are the biggest of their kind on the East Coast, and bring a tremendous amount of prestige to the City. This year, people will flock to the City by the hundreds of thousands over two weekends to take part in the entertainment, food and cultural activities offered at both events.

I had the great honor this week to announce the events and activities taking place at both great events this week. I was joined at the announcements by the community leaders and corporate sponsors who make the African American Heritage Festival and Artscape possible.

This year, the African American Heritage Festival will take place at M&T Bank Stadium (Lots B and C) on June 18th, 19th and 20th.

This year, the entertainment at the Heritage Festival is great. Headlining on Friday is Robin Thicke; Saturday's headliner is the legendary Patti LaBelle. On Sunday we will enjoy gospel recording artist Donnie McClurkin.

But this festival is more than the great music-it is truly great because it is educational and uplifting for everyone. The Heritage Festival has become a family event. Everyone in the family will enjoy carnival rides, the "Children's Corner," art and retail for all ages and tastes.

Additionally, event organizers added personal wellness as a focus of the Festival. There is a fun run and walk, health education tents and opportunities to get free health screenings. For more information about the African American Heritage Festival, visit http://www.aahf.net/

In 2010, the excitement of Artscape continues as it enters its 29th year on July 16th, 17th and 18th. Artscape showcases many forms of visual and performing arts including: theater, opera, dance, sculpture, the Artists' Market, the Maryland Film Festival, art cars, street theater, D.I.Y. crafters, off-site exhibitions and much more.

This year, a fourth outdoor music stage has been added. The "Charm City" stage at Mt. Royal Avenue and St. Paul Street offers area bands additional opportunities to perform at Artscape. This new stage joins the "Wachovia Stage" the "Festival Stage" and the "Urbanite Jazz & Blues Stage."

Technology and the arts have joined to create "Betascape," a series of demonstrations, workshops, exhibits and social events focused on cutting edge and experimental technology.

Artscape has a reputation for hosting established, as well as up-and-coming, musical performers, and 2010 is no different. On the Wachovia Main Stage, performers include: Neo-soul singer Musiq Soulchild, blues rock/jam band Government Mule, hip-hop/reggae artist Wale, Baltimore's own soul singer Maysa, indie rockers Cold War Kids, funk/rock artist Jackie Greene, and the reggae group Rebel-lution.

Artscape is free and open to the public. For more information, visit http://www.artscape.org/.

When you and your family attend these great summer events, I strongly encourage you to use public transit. The Light Rail, MTA and the new Charm City Circulator give you great opportunities to park closer to home and enjoy a safe and comfortable ride with other festivalgoers.

This Week's Message

Sincerely,

Stephanie Rawlings-Blake
Mayor, City of Baltimore

Special Notices

Draft Zoning Code Released

The City of Baltimore Department of Planning is pleased to announce the public release of a draft version of the new Zoning Code. The Zoning Code was last comprehensively updated in 1971, since then, economic realities and the design goals of the City have evolved. This document is an initial step to replace the current Zoning Code. A series of public informational meetings will be held to present the new code and answer questions. For more information and meeting dates, times, and locations, go to www.rewritebaltimore.org. For questions, call the Department of Planning at 410-396-PLAN.

Baltimore Farmers' Market & Bazaar

Shop for the region's freshest produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, fresh flowers and more. The bazaar returns with unique crafts and collectibles. The Baltimore Farmers' Market & Bazaar, located on Saratoga Street between Holliday and Gay streets under the Jones Falls Expressway, is open every Sunday from May 2 through December 19 from 7:00 am until sell out, approximately noon. For more information, call 1-877-BALTIMORE or visit www.promotionandarts.com.

Call for AmeriCorps*VISTA Volunteers

Want to make Baltimore a better place? Greater Homewood Community Corporation is seeking qualified candidates for the nationally-renowned AmeriCorps*VISTA program. Sign on for a year of service and receive a modest living allowance, health benefits, and an end-of-service education award. Positions start in August 2010 in the areas of improving public schools, strengthening neighborhoods, adult literacy and English for speakers of other languages (ESOL). The deadline for applications is July 15. Visit www.greaterhomewood.org to learn more.

Upcoming Events

Thursdays at the Lewis

Thursdays, June-August, 5:00 pm-8:00 pm
Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 East Pratt Street
Each Thursday, June-August, enjoy extended hours and $5 admission to the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Dine, shop, and tour the galleries. Third Thursdays feature live music, light fare, and a cash bar.