The R&B fans in your family will tell you that “you don’t have to call” this weekend — because they’ll probably be seeing Usher. The hitmaker will take his “Past Present Future” tour to CFG Bank Arena for two days, following his popular residency in Las Vegas and epic Super Bowl performance. But if you’re looking for a more low-key activity — whether that’s an indoor play or an outdoor festival — there’s a little something for everyone going on this weekend.
Thursday, Aug. 22
Pillar Rabbit
“Pillar Rabbit” explores the story of a mother who loses her favorite son while she battles Alzheimer’s disease. Written by Baltimore playwright Mel Holley and directed by Baltimore native Ta’Von Vinson, the play features Spotlighters Theatre’s first all-Black cast of the season.
Time: 8 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Location: Spotlighters Theatre (817 St. Paul St.)
Cost: On Thursday, tickets are only $10. Friday through Sunday, tickets are $24 for adults and $21 for seniors, students and military.
Family friendly? The theater’s website says the play is recommended for teens and adults; it contains strong language and adult situations.
Read More
Friday, Aug. 23
Maryland State Fair
The annual Maryland State Fair kicks off Thursday with the returns for the first of its three-weekend run. The event has tons of activities for the entire family, ranging from carnival rides to agricultural shows. On Thursday alone, you can check out a sheep showmanship contest, a market hog show, a Negro League baseball exhibit, a demonstration on extracting honey from a hive, a mechanical bull ride, a wine garden, and racing pigs and horses, just for starters.
Time: 5 p.m. on Thursday, 10 a.m. Friday through Sunday.
Location: Timonium Fairgrounds (2200 York Road)
Cost: Ticket prices are listed on the website. Remember that carnival rides and food cost extra.
Family friendly? Yes.
Usher
Usher is continuing his eventful year with two concerts in Baltimore, the second city on his tour. At his first show Tuesday in Washington, D.C., the R&B legend performed nearly 50 songs, including “Burn,” “U Don’t Have to Call” and “Nice & Slow,” so you can likely expect more of the same in Charm City. Usher’s website says both concerts are sold out, but there are actually a few tickets left on Ticketmaster — act quickly!
Time: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Location: CFG Bank Arena (201 W. Baltimore St.)
Cost: Tickets start at $268.
Family friendly? Let’s leave the children at home.
Saturday, Aug. 24
Baltimore Fashion Market Pop-up
The Baltimore Fashion Market Pop-Up is open at the Baltimore Museum of Industry for one Saturday a month. They will have thrifted clothes, custom designs, jewelry, shoes and more available for purchase. The goal is to reduce global fashion waste, so upcycled items are the name of the game.
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Baltimore Museum of Industry (1415 Key Highway)
Cost: Entry is free, but you will need money for vendors.
Family friendly? Yes.
National Dog Day
The Rotunda is hosting a Dog Day Festival for all of your four-legged companions. The full day event include contests, pet games, pet photos and even pet portraits. There will also be adoptable dogs if you’re craving more companionship (and responsibility.)
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: The Rotunda (727 W. 41st St.)
Cost: Entry is free.
Family friendly? Yes.
Sunday, Aug. 25
Good Day Baltimore
Artist Big Rasna and his group, OPR Brand, are bringing their “Good Day Tour” to Baltimore. Taking place at The Garage Baltimore, the event will have live performances from local talent including Deetranada and Big Rasna himself.
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: The Garage Baltimore (6 E. Lafayette Ave.)
Cost: Event is free, but you can RSVP.
Family friendly? Let’s leave the children at home.
