Annapolis And The Chesapeake Bay Offers Plenty Of Ways To Play In 2017

Annapolis, Maryland—Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (VAAAC) wants to make it easy for visitors and area residents to enjoy the many exciting events and activities that will be taking place in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County throughout 2017. To assist individuals who are making advance plans for business or vacation travel, the AAACCVB has put together a 2017 Major Events Calendar. For a more comprehensive overview of events large and small, visit http://www.visitannapolis.org/.  Annapolis and Chesapeake Bay 2017 Major Events Calendar January Annapolis Conservancy Preserved Properties Monday to Friday, January 2-27 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Annapolis City Art Gallery, 160 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis Admission: Free The Washington Society of Landscape Painters has created all the paintings in the show. The prestigious 102-year-old art society is one of the oldest organizations of landscape artists in the country. Sponsored by the City of Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay String of Pearls Project. Holiday Festival of TrainsFriday-Sunday, January 2-29 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. B&O Railroad Museum, 2711 Maryland Avenue, Ellicott City Admission: $4 adults / $3 seniors (60+) / $3 children (2-12) http://www.borail.org/ECS-HFOT.aspx 410-461-1945 Enjoy the museum's annual holiday celebration of toy trains and model railroading. Operating model trains include: N-scale layout, children’s push-button Thomas the Tank Engine O-scale layout, O-scale crazy train layout and HO-scale train layout of the first 13 miles of the B&O. Due to the late reopening of Ellicott City Station because of the town’s historic July flood, the Washington DC Metropolitan LEGO Group's LEGO layout will not be on display at the Ellicott Station this year. CamelotThursday-Sunday, January 5-22 Thursday, 7:00 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 8:00 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 p.m. Compass Rose Theater, 49 Spa Road, Annapolis Admission: Adults, $38; Seniors (65 and older) and Military $33; Students (with ID) and Children, $23 www.compassrosetheater.org   410-980-6662 The legend of King Arthur and his young bride Guinevere is also the story of King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table. The spell of Camelot is broken, revealing the complexity and struggles that arise when ideals meet reality. One of the knights, Lancelot, falls in love and the kingdom crumbles. Set to the music of Alan J. Lerner and Frederick Loewe, the play became a Broadway legend. Twelfth Night: A Christmas ConcertFriday, January 6 Hammond-Harwood House, 19 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.; seasonal reception begins at 6:30 p.m. Admission: Non-members, $30; Members, $25 http://hammondharwoodhouse.org/410-263-4683 Join the Elan Ensemble ladies for a festive harp and voice Christmas concert in the ballroom, as they celebrate the 12th day of Christmas in a traditional 19th-century manner. The Elan Ensemble performs music from the 17th-19th centuries in historic venues, bringing modern audiences into the spirit of the musical and social world of past eras. Elissa Edwards, soprano, and Dr. Anastasia Pike, harp, specialize in creating thematic concerts by using original editions and historical performance practices such as ornamentation and expressive gesture. Rooms will be decorated by local garden clubs. Click here for the complete 2017 Calendar of Major Events.

Five Not-to-Miss October Events In Annapolis And Anne Arundel County

ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND—What’s happening in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County in October 2016? Plenty! To make it easier for you, Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (VAAAC) is highlighting five celebrations you won’t want to miss! For a more complete listing of events large and small, visit the online calendar of events at VisitAnnapolis.org. October Homestead Gardens 32nd Annual Fall FestivalSaturdays and Sundays, October 1-30 Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Sundays, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Homestead Gardens, 743 West Central Avenue, Davidsonville Admission: Free, includes free parking http://www.homesteadgardens.com   240-447-2378 Homestead Gardens' Annual Fall Festival is the largest in the area! Enjoy a family tradition featuring 15 rides and attractions, demonstrations, entertainment, food and beverages – including Homestead’s world famous apple cider doughnuts. Thirty acres of Homestead Gardens is alive with the color and bounties of the season. Take a hayride to the pumpkin patch and pick a pumpkin; wind your way through their two-acre corn maze; ride the pumpkin express; or stroll through the iconic showroom adorned for fall. U.S. Sailboat ShowThursday-Monday, October 6-10 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. City Dock, Annapolis Admission: Adult, $18-$48; Child, $5; 6 and under, free www.annapolisboatshows.com410-268-8828 Now in its 47th year, the Annapolis Sailboat Show brings together the largest in-water selection of sailboats representing major builders from around the globe. An ever-changing offering of activities and features includes Brokerage Cove, presenting an array of pre-owned boats and East Coast brokers; a Take the Wheel program of classes and boat demos; Vacation Basin to present charter companies, destination resort locations, and charter boat ownership; tasting and hospitality areas; a Preview Day gala; and a Premier Launch Party. 3rd Annual North County Restaurant WeekFriday-Sunday, October 7-16 Glen Burnie, Ferndale, Pasadena, Millersville, Hanover and Severna Park Admission: Varies by location http://www.northcountyrestaurantweek.com/410-766-8282 More than 20 restaurants from the Glen Burnie, Ferndale, Pasadena, Millersville, Hanover and Severna Park areas will be offering price fixed lunch and dinner menus to highlight the diverse, high-quality dining experiences available in northern Anne Arundel County. Participating restaurants will be offering regional seafood as well as a variety of cuisines, including American, Caribbean, Irish, Italian, Japanese and Mexican. Foodies will be able to view the selections online beginning September 26th. As a prelude to North County Restaurant Week, the Northern Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce will present its 5th Annual Taste of North County on Thursday, October 6 at La Fontaine Bleue in Glen Burnie from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. U.S. Powerboat ShowThursday-Sunday, October 13-16 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. City Dock, Annapolis Admission: Adult, $18-48; Child, $5; 6 and under, free www.annapolisboatshows.com  410-268-8828 Now in its 45th year, the nation’s oldest and largest in-water powerboat exhibition features everything from luxurious motor yachts and trawlers to high-performance boats and offshore fishing machines. The show includes family cruisers, center consoles, inflatables and the world's largest power catamaran section. Attendees will also find a wide selection of marine equipment, high-tech electronics, accessories, gear and related services. Oyster Festival Sunday, October 16 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Captain Avery Museum, 1418 East West Shady Side Road, Shady Side Admission: Adults, $6; children 12 and under, $2 www.captainaverymuseum.org  410-867-4486 Enjoy food, live music by local artists, unique crafts, face painting, and demonstrations showing the vital role oysters play in maintaining the health of the Chesapeake Bay. Seafood lovers are invited to feast on raw and fried oysters, oyster stew, fried oyster roll sushi, cream of crab soup, Maryland crab soup, and much more. Hamburgers, hotdogs and homemade desserts will also be available. VAAAC 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. To begin receiving story ideas and news updates, “like” Visit Annapolis Media Resources on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @visitanapMR.

August 2016 Major Events In Annapolis And Anne Arundel County

Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County (VAAAC) wants to make it easy for individuals to enjoy the many exciting events and activities that will be taking place in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, Maryland in August 2016. To assist individuals who are making advance plans for business or vacation travel, VAAAC has put together a August 2016 Major Events Calendar. For a more comprehensive overview of events large and small, visit VisitAnnapolis.org. August Fiber OptionsMonday, August 1 to Saturday, August 6 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily Maryland Federation of Art’s Circle Gallery, 18 State Circle, Annapolis Admission: Free www.Mdfedart.org    410-268-4566 National juried exhibition of artwork based in fiber. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare – Abridged! Tuesdays, August 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 (and every Tuesday through September 27) 7:30 p.m. Reynolds Tavern Courtyard, 7 Church Circle, Annapolis Admission: $30 www.annapolisshakespeare.org  410-415-3513 It’s Shakespeare like you’ve never experienced it! Come prepared for a lighthearted evening when three talented members of the Annapolis Shakespeare Company team perform lighthearted parodies of the bard’s most well-known plays. Written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield. Directed by ASC Artistic Director Sally Boyett. Wednesday Night Sailboat Races Wednesdays, August 3-31 First Gun: Approximately 6:10 p.m. Annapolis Harbor www.annapolisyc.com  410-263-9279 Grab your favorite dockside seat in America’s Sailing Capital to watch some 150 crews compete in midweek races that involve sailing around several marks in the Bay before heading back to Spa Creek for a finish in front of the Annapolis Yacht Club. For many, the post-race party is the official beginning of the weekend. Aerial Tours of Wednesday Night Sailboat RacesWednesdays, August 3 through August 24 Monumental Helicopters, Tipton Airport, 7505 General Aviation Drive, Hangar 84, Ft. Meade, MD 20755 Admission: Visit website http://monumentalhelicopters.com/baltimore-events-and-annapolis-events/410-491-4354 Take in the bustle of City Dock and Ego Alley and get a grand view of historic Annapolis and the Wednesday Night Sailboat Races. Catch a “quick look” at Annapolis attractions and the beauty of Chesapeake Bay sailing, while you admire boats, marinas and stunning waterfront estates. Dinner Under the StarsWednesdays, August 3 through September 21 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. West Street, Annapolis http://www.annapolisarts.org/ 410-858-5884 The first block of West Street (from Church Circle to Calvert Street), located in the heart of the Arts District, will be closed to traffic on Wednesday evenings and filled with café tables reminiscent of the open air cafés in France, Spain, and Italy. Live music and special art exhibits will appear all over West Street, adding to the ambiance as you dine beneath a canopy of lights. Million Dollar Quartet Thursday-Sunday, August 4-7 Various Times The Children’s Theatre of Annapolis Complex, 1661 Bay Head Road, Annapolis Admission: $22.00 - $36.00 www.infinitytheatre.com 443-261-5130 The Tony Award Winning musical is set on December 4, 1956, when an extraordinary twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. Million Dollar Quartet brings that legendary December night to life with a tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations that is both poignant and funny. Relive the era with an incredible score of rock ‘n’ roll, gospel, R&B and country hits, performed live onstage by world-class actors and musicians. Showcased hit songs include: “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” and more. Tides & Tunes Summer Concert Series Thursdays, August 4-25  7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Annapolis Maritime Museum, 723 Second Street, Eastport, Annapolis Admission: Free, $10 donation suggested http://amaritime.org/    410-295-1040, ext. 4 Enjoy folk, classic rock, soul, psychedelic funk, country, Hawaiian swing, Island music, boogie-woogie, and swing – all on the beach! Thursday Night with the Stars Thursdays, August 4-25 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Admission: Free Susan Campbell Park, City Dock, Annapolis 410-263-7958 Large and small groups of local musicians perform everything from county to jazz on Thursday evenings. Bring a comfy chair, although chairs are provided. Presented by the Art in Public Places Commission. This month’s lineup includes: MEGA (August 4), One Accord (August 11), an Army Jazz Band (August 18) and Jazz Mosaic (August 25). The Producers Thursdays - Sundays, August 4 through September 4 8:30 p.m. Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, 143 Compromise Street, Annapolis Admission: $22 http://www.summergarden.com 410-268-9212 Bialystock and Bloom! Those names should strike hysteria in anyone familiar with Mel Brooks' classic comedy film. As a stage musical, The Producers once again sets the standard for outrageous humor, following the journey of two very different men who survive an insanely funny adventure to become unlikely friends. 71st Annual Rotary Club of Annapolis Crab FeastFriday, August 5, rain or shine 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, 550 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis Tickets: Adult, $60; Child, $20 www.annapolisrotary.org  410-295-3201 Crustacean lovers feast on the Chesapeake Bay’s bounty at this all-you-can-eat and drink event that is arguably the largest crab feast in the world. Nearly 2,500 individuals are expected to finish off 345 bushels of #1 crabs (that's nearly 40,000 of the big ones!), 3,400 ears of corn, 100 gallons of crab soup, 1,800 hot dogs, 150 pounds of beef barbeque, and hundreds of gallons of beer and soft drinks. As was the case last year, the local environmental group, Annapolis Green, is working with the Rotary Club of Annapolis to compost the crabs and other food remnants and utensils. It’s anticipated that 20,000 pounds of food waste will be collected. About two months following the feast, the watermelon rinds, corn cobs, brown paper and crab shell bits will have turned into compost used to benefit area gardens. Plastic will be collected as well – moving the event ever closer to its goal of sending nothing to the landfill. Proceeds of the Crab Feast benefit local community and cultural organizations. Annapolis Towne Centre Free Friday ConcertsFridays, August 5-26 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Annapolis Towne Centre at Parole, 1906 Towne Centre Blvd., Annapolis Www.visitatc.com    Every Friday night, the area's best talent will take the stage on Towne Centre Boulevard to deliver a rockin' performance. Enjoy local music, including classic rock, jazz, 80's, blues, swing and Motown. Event includes a beer garden hosted by Towne Centre restaurants. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. First Sunday Arts FestivalSunday, August 7 (and every first Sunday through November) Noon to 5:00 p.m. First block of West and Calvert Streets, Annapolis Admission: Free www.firstsundayarts.com 410-263-4012 Enjoy live entertainment and peruse the work of 100 local and regional artists as you stroll along the first block of West Street and Calvert Street next to Whitmore parking garage. Local restaurants set up outside cafes that are perfect for people watching and an afternoon bite to eat. Free parking for the family-friendly event is available at the state parking garage on the corner of Calvert and Bladen Streets. Annapolis Tango Friday, August 12 and every second Friday through September 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Susan Campbell Park, Annapolis City Dock Admission: Free 410-263-7958 Watch and join in the dance while the moon rises over the Annapolis Harbor. American Landscapes Friday, August 12 to Saturday, September 10 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily Maryland Federation of Art’s Circle Gallery, 18 State Circle, Annapolis Admission: Free www.Mdfedart.org    410-268-4566 National juried exhibition of landscape artworks. Reception: August 21.  Wildlife Conservation & Recreation Day Saturday, August 13 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Patuxent National Wildlife Visitor Center/North Tract, 230 Bald Eagle Drive, Laurel, MD  Admission: Free http://www.fws.gov/refuge/patuxent/   301-497-5770 Learn about wildlife conservation and recreational opportunities through habitat exploration, children’s crafts, fishing, archery and firearm demonstrations. Sundae SundaySunday, August 14  1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Captain Avery Museum, 1418 East West Shady Side Road, Shady Side Admission: Free; small sundaes $2.50 www.captainaverymuseum.org   410-867-4486 This summer tradition on the lawn attracts kids of all ages: teenagers playing music and singing on the front porch, families playing croquet and other games on the lawn, artists with easels in the raingarden, couples dangling their toes in the water off the pier, and even folks napping in the shade. 9th Annual C.R.A.B. Regatta Saturday, August 20 Party, 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastport Yacht Club, 317 First Street, Annapolis Admission: Racer entry fee, $55; After Party open to public. Admission, food & drink tickets available at the door http://boatyardbarandgrill.com/events/crab   410-336-8880 The Boatyard Regatta benefits Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating (CRAB), a non-profit organization dedicated to making sailing available for people with disabilities. Eastport Yacht Club hosts this fun, no-pressure, feel-good regatta where captains bring families and friends. After a glorious day of sailing on the Bay, contestants and well-wishers enjoy food, libation and rockin’ live music at the huge after-party in Annapolis’s historic Eastport. Great Frogs Date Night SeriesFriday, August 27 and every last Friday of the month through September 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Great Frogs Winery, 3218 Harness Creek Road, Annapolis Admission: Early Bird: single/$55; $110/couple. General admission: $60/single, $120/couple. Harness Creek neighbors (walk-ins only, no parking) $55/single, $110/couple http://www.greatfrogs.com/new-events-2/2016/5/27/date-night-series 410-626-6193 Join Great Frogs Winery for an intimate evening with music, pizza and wine. Patrons are invited to sample Great Frogs’ newest selection of wines before choosing a bottle to share. Guests will also get to choose from among three farm-to-table pizzas. Limited tickets are available. Reservations are recommended. 40th Annual Maryland Renaissance Festival Weekends and Labor Day, August 27 through October 23 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. 1821 Crownsville Road, Annapolis www.rennfest.com  800-296-7304 The region’s premier outdoor event and second largest Renaissance Festival in the country is celebrating its 40th season at Revel Grove. Travel back in time as you immerse yourself in the culture of a 16th-century English village, complete with King Henry VIII and his court. The festival includes 200+ entertainers, ten stages, a 3,000 seat jousting arena, 122 craft shops, 48 food and beverage emporiums, games, attractions and 85 acres of complimentary parking. Let merriment abound! VAAAC is a nonprofit, membership-based destination marketing organization that generates revenues for the local economy by promoting Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay to leisure and business travelers across the country and around the world.

December 2015 Major Events In Annapolis And The Chesapeake Bay

The Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Conference and Visitors Bureau (AAACCVB) wants to make it easy for individuals to enjoy the many exciting events and activities that will be taking place in Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay throughout December 2015. To assist individuals who are making advance plans for business or vacation travel, the AAACCVB has put together a December 2015 Major Events Calendar. For a more comprehensive overview of events large and small, visitVisitAnnapolis.org.

Lights on the BayDecember 1 to January 1
5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. nightly, weather permitting
$14/car; $50/bus
Sandy Point State Park, 1100 East College Parkway, Annapolis
www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/sandypoint.asp   

Don't miss this spectacular drive-through holiday lights show beside the Chesapeake Bay. The event features more than 60 animated and stationary displays, including traditional Maryland-themed favorites, holiday and children’s displays. Proceeds benefit Anne Arundel Medical Center.

Midnight Madness Holiday Shopping Thursdays, December 3 & 10
6:00 p.m. to midnight
Downtown Annapolis
Admission: Free

Lights, garland, action! Historic Annapolis shops throw open their doors in a glorified block party that is open to all. Enjoy musical performances as well as food and refreshments at many stores as you stroll along Main Street, Maryland Avenue, inner West Street, and State Circle in search of that perfect gift. Explore the uniqueness that makes downtown Annapolis so appealing at this magical time of year. Sponsored by Annapolis Partnership.

U.S. Navy Sea Chanters Holiday Concert Friday, December 4
Doors: 7:30 p.m.; Show: 8:00 p.m.
Chesapeake Arts Center, 194 Hammonds Lane, Brooklyn Park
Admission: Free
www.Chesapeakearts.org410-636-6597

The Sea Chanters is the U.S. Navy’s official chorus. The ensemble performs a variety of music ranging from traditional choral music, including sea chanteys and patriotic fare, opera, Broadway and contemporary music. The Sea Chanters chorus is often found at the center of important U.S. events.

It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play by Joe LandryFridays-Sundays, December 4 to January 3
Fridays, 8:00 p.m.; Saturdays, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; Sundays, 3:00 p.m. No performances on 12/25
Annapolis Shakespeare Company, Studio 111, Suite 114, 111 Chinquapin Round Road, Annapolis
Admission: $25 to $55
http://annapolisshakespeare.org/410-415-3513

This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve.

Illuminated London TownFridays, December 4, 11, 18
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Historic London Town and Gardens, 839 Londontown Road, Edgewater
Admission: $10 for adults; $9 for seniors; $5 for children 7 and over
www.historiclondontown.org410-222-1919

Enjoy the beauty of Historic London Town’s gardens illuminated with lights for the holidays. Fire pits will be scattered throughout the site for s’mores, and other activities will make the evenings enjoyable for the entire family.

Holiday Candlelight Stroll Fridays and Saturdays, December 4-5, 11, 18-19
7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Admission: $20/adult; $12/children under 12
Tours depart from the Information Booth at City Dock, Annapolis
www.watermarkjourney.com  
410-268-7601

Learn about the origin of holiday traditions – including the significance of evergreens, Yule logs, Christmas trees and Santa Claus. The stroll along festive Annapolis streets is a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.  

BrigadoonFriday, December 4 to Sunday, December 20
Fridays, 8:00 p.m.; Saturdays, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.; Sundays, 2:00 p.m.
Compass Rose Theater, 49 Spa Road, Annapolis
Admission: Adults, $38; Military and Senior, $33; Students and children: $23
http://www.compassrosetheater.org/shows/ 
410-980-6662

A place of wonderment and adventure, the town of Brigadoon emerges from the mists of Scotland just once a century. The musical love story beguiles the audience as it leads two American travelers into the world of long ago. The outstanding score by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe that thrilled Broadway audiences long ago now graces the Compass Rose stage.

Jolly Express CruiseFridays, Saturdays* & Sundays in December, Plus Thursdays, December 24 & 31
*No Cruises Saturday, December 12th due to Parade of Lights
Admission: $23, adults; $13, children under 12
www.cruisesonthebay.com410-268-7600

Enjoy a 45-minute, holiday-inspired, “sleigh ride” cruise aboard the reindeer-bedeckedMiss Anne. Cruise includes holiday music, hot cocoa, and Captain Santa at the helm.

Transparency w/MessengerSaturday, December 5
8:00 p.m.
Chesapeake Arts Center, Studio 194 Theatre, 194 Hammonds Lane, Brooklyn Park
Admission: $10
www.Chesapeakearts.org410-636-6597

The Transparency Band performs contemporary Christian music with a blend of harmonies and several members singing the lead at any given time. Messenger is a four-piece Hard Rock band with a strong message. Their sound arises from Hard Rock, Heavy Metal and Progressive Rock. Come prepared to enjoy a dynamic show with good music and loud guitars.

State House Holiday ConcertSaturday, December 5
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Maryland State House, State Circle, Annapolis
http://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdstatehouse/html/home.html 

Come and experience the beauty of Maryland’s historic State House as you enjoy the sounds of youth choruses and musicians by the glow of the State’s official Christmas tree.

An A Cappella Holiday with the Capital Hearings Saturday, December 5
7:30 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
Admission: Non-member, $20; Member, $15; Child, $15
http://www.marylandhall.org/410-263-5544

The Capital Hearings return to Maryland Hall with their signature holiday concert. They’ll be making spirits bright with a festive, family-friendly program of beloved carols, smooth vocal jazz and sparkling contemporary arrangements.

Messiah Concerts Saturday-Sunday, December 5-6
Saturday, 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, 3:00 p.m.
USNA Chapel, 108 Blake Road Annapolis, (off Maryland Avenue)
www.usna.edu/music410 293 8497

Continuing a long-standing tradition, the U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club joins with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra and soloists from the Metropolitan Opera Company to present selections from Handel’s beloved Messiah on Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon conducted by Dr. Aaron Smith, U.S.N.A. director of musical activities. This beautifully elegant concert has been broadcast on public television stations both regionally and nationwide.

Ann Arrundell County Historical Society’s 29th Annual Holiday Open House Saturday and Sunday, December 5-6
Historic Benson-Hammond House, Aviation Blvd. and Andover Road, Linthicum
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
www.aachs.org410-987-0268

The Benson-Hammond House will be decorated in vintage style for the holidays. Share punch and cookies with old friends and new as you travel back in time to celebrate Christmas in the 1820’s farmhouse.

ALS Artisan Boutique Sunday, December 6
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Crowne Plaza Annapolis, 173 Jennifer Road, Annapolis
Admission: Free
https://www.facebook.com/AlsArtisanBoutique           
410-991-4959

More than 55 regional artists will be offering handcrafted jewelry, original children’s clothing and accessories, pottery, paintings and more at the 13^th annual fundraiser for the ALS Association. The event will include door prizes, raffles, a silent auction, refreshments and an appearance by Lisa McCue, an illustrator of children’s books, including the Corduroy series. The ALS Association is the only national not-for-profit volunteer health organization whose sole mission is to find a cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease).

A Celebration of ChristmasFriday, December 11
8:00 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
http://liveartsmaryland.org/410-263-1906

Join Live Arts Maryland for a Celebration of Christmas with the Annapolis Chorale and Annapolis Chamber Orchestra conducted by J. Ernest Green.

33rd Annual Eastport Yacht Club Lights Parade Saturday, December 12
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Annapolis Harbor and Spa Creek
Admission: Free
www.eastportyc.orgParade hotline: 410-263-0415

Every year in December, magic happens on the waters of the Annapolis Harbor. Dozens of boats of all shapes and sizes illuminated with thousands of colored lights and crewed by jolly revelers suddenly appear in the cold wintry night. Families and friends gather at their favorite viewing spots along the waterfront to enjoy the yearly tradition. Sponsored by the Eastport Yacht Club.

West Annapolis Holiday Magic Saturday Saturday, December 12
West Annapolis – Annapolis Street
http://westannapolisbusinessaffiliation.org/410-295-5157

Don’t miss the family-friendly shopping event in West Annapolis. Take advantage of free parking. Sponsored by the West Annapolis Business Affiliation.

Annapolis Striders’ 37th Anniversary 15K RunSunday, December 13
Quiet Waters Park, 600 Quiet Waters Park Road, Annapolis
Registration: 8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.; Race: 10:00 a.m.
Admission: Free/members who have pre-paid for the Championship Series; $5/non-members; Race Day: $10/all runners, including Striders
www.annapolisstriders.org/2015/RaceSchedule.html
The eighth leg of the championship series is a double-loop course on paved trails at Quiet Waters Park. A few hills and a winding path through the woods make for an interesting run. Registration, refreshments and the finish line are located in or adjacent to the Blue Heron Room.

Ballet Theatre of Maryland Presents “The Nutcracker” Saturdays and Sundays, December 12-13 and 19-20
Saturdays, 7:00 p.m.; Sundays, 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis
www.balletmaryland.org
410-263-8289

We invite you to the most famous Christmas Party of all time – “The Nutcracker,” where the possibility of dreams, the magic of Christmas, and the wonder of children merge through young Clara’s adventures with mechanical dolls, life-size rats, and whirling Kingdoms of Snowflakes and Sweets. Help Clara rescue her beloved Nutcracker from the Rat Queen’s evil spell and discover her true destiny. This year, the audience will enjoy a brand new set in the Kingdom of Sweets as they experience Tchaikovsky’s musical score one more time. Join members of the Ballet Theatre of Maryland for a complimentary Sugar Plum Party one hour prior to each Sunday performance.

11th Hour DowntownThursday, December 17
6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Maryland Avenue/State Circle and Downtown Annapolis Shopping Districts

Just days until Christmas…and downtown merchants are ready to help you wrap up your shopping with gifts your family and friends will love! Need something for that hard-to-please brother?  Shops along Maryland Avenue/State Circle and Main Street/City Dock are sure to have just the right gift. Enjoy musical performances as well as food and refreshments at many stores. Organized by the Annapolis Partnership.

Handel’s Messiah Friday-Sunday, December 18-20
Friday and Saturday, 8:00 p.m.; Sunday, 3:00 p.m.
St. Anne’s Church, 199 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis
Admission: Non-Member, $45; Member, $40; Student, $17
http://liveartsmaryland.org/http://marylandhall.org/handels-messiah
410-263-1906

The Annapolis Chorale Chamber Chorus, the Annapolis Chamber Orchestra and soloists return to historic St. Anne’s Church for Handel’s powerful and timely masterpiece. Nothing equals hearing this piece live, complete with its famous “Hallelujah” chorus. Four extraordinary soloists join us for this beautiful concert. Seating is limited, so get your tickets now.

2015 Military Bowl Monday, December 28
2:30 p.m. Kickoff
U.S. Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, 550 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis
Admission: Tickets start at $25
Tickets: 888-841-2787
http://www.militarybowl.org/
The Military Bowl® presented by Northrop Grumman, benefiting the USO, will match a team from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) against an opponent from the American Athletic Conference (AAC). If they are not selected to participate in one of New Year’s six bowl games, Navy will represent the American Athletic Conference. For the sixth consecutive bowl season, the Military Bowl will provide at least $100,000 to the USO and complimentary tickets to troops and their families for the game.  

City of Annapolis New Year's Eve CelebrationThursday, December 31
Admission: Free
Susan Campbell Park, City Dock, Annapolis
www.annapolis.gov410-263-7997

Family activities fill the day and dancing fills the night. Traditionally, a first round of fireworks begins at 7:30 p.m. and the evening concludes with midnight fireworks.

The AAACCVB is a nonprofit, membership-based destination marketing organization that generates revenues for the local economy by promoting Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay to leisure and business travelers across the country and around the world.

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