Preakness Week Events

The second jewel of the Triple Crown has arrived and we’ve got all the events just for you! From the Hot Air Balloons at Turf Valley to the live music of InFieldFest, you’re sure to find a way to celebrate the 138th Preakness! We’ve even created a special Maryland themed dessert for the occasion – our Berger Cookie Trifle!

Special Event to Celebrate Secretariat’s 40th Anniversary
Tuesday, May 14th
6:30PM
The AFI Silver Theater
8633 Colesville Rd.
Silver Spring, MD 20910

A Special Evening with Penny Chenery and Ron Turcotte to benefit the Secretariat Foundation, Secretariat.com and the Maryland Jockey Club, in association with ESPN. They are proud to host a trio of events commemorating the 40th anniversary of Secretariat’s Triple Crown.

Preakness Frog Hop
Wednesday, May 15th
12 Noon – 1 PM
Paterson Park
Pulaski Monument inside the park at Eastern and Linwood Aves
Free and open to all ages!

The spirit of The Preakness horse race comes alive as kids and adults jockey their jumpin’ frogs to the finish line at this 47th annual event. Trophies awarded to the first four finishers with ribbons for all participants.

Only one frog may be entered per jockey. The frog must be at least 4 inches in length from nose to tail (not counting the legs). If you have extra frogs, please bring them so another child may participate.

For additional information, contact mark.burke@baltimorecity.gov  or call 410-396-9392 Click here (PDF File) for rules and registration form.

Celebrity Crab Derby
Thursday, May 16th
12 Noon
Lexington Market
400 W. Lexington, St.
Baltimore, MD 21201

Cheer for your favorite local celebrity as they jockey blue crabs to the finish line! The winner takes home a “purse” of $500 to the charity of their choice.

Power Plant Live Preakness Week
Thursday, May 16th – Saturday May18th

Power Plant Live!, Miller Lite and 98Rock present Miller Lite Nights Race Week.
ALL SHOWS ARE FREE and you must be 21+ to enter.

Thursday, May 16, The Darkness takes the stage at 7pm featuring Middle Class Rut.
Friday, Go Go Gadjet takes the stage at 8pm

Saturday, join us for the Preakness watch and post party. Watch the race on our 20′ Big Screen. Beer and food specials all day.

Preakness Celebration Hot Air Balloon Festival and Launch
Thursday, May 16th – Saturday  May 18th

May 16 & 17, 2013, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM Balloon Festival

May 16 & 17, 2013, 6:30 PM Balloon Launch

May 17 & 18, 2013, 6:30 AM Balloon Launch

Enjoy our annual Hot Air Balloon Festival, perfect for young children and those young at heart. There will be family activities, handmade crafts, retail and food vendors, and live entertainment. Balloon related activities will include tethered hot air balloon rides, a walk-through of an inflated hot air balloon, pilot demonstrations, balloon launches and the nightly Balloon Glow at dusk.

On Saturday, May 18th, the Balloon Festival will culminate with the launching of the balloons at 6:30 am.

Admission to the Preakness Celebration Hot Air Balloon Festival is free and open to the public. All parking is at the Howard County Fairgrounds, with a donation of $5 per car. Donations benefit the Elkridge Adult Athletic Association. Balloon rides and flights will be fee-based. Please call Ron Broderick, Balloonmeister, at 410-442-5566, to schedule your balloon flight!

Sunrise at Old Hilltop
Wednesday, May 15th – Saturday May 18th
6 AM – 9 AM
Pimlico Race Course
5201 Park Heights Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21215

Experience sunrise over Old Hilltop at Pimlico. The 20 minute tours run from 6am – 9am, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of Preakness Week. After enjoying sunrise on the Grandstand Apron, you will get an insider’s perspective on racing during an escorted tour of the Preakness Stakes Barn. You never know who you may run into on the backside…trainers, vets, owners, blacksmiths, exercise riders or jockeys. The Barn area is one place you can count on an interesting story! You will have an opportunity to shop for Preakness Souvenirs, stop by the Pimlico Museum and maybe even peek into the jockey’s quarters, then head back outside to watch the horses go through their morning workouts. The tour guides bring with them a wealth of experience and add a personal touch that can’t be beat!

Tours are FREE and on a first come, first serve basis. For more information email Diana Harbaugh at dharbaugh@marylandracing.com

Jockey Autograph Session
Friday, May 17, 2013
10 AM – 11 AM
Pimlico Race Course
5201 Park Heights Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21215

Meet your favorite jockey and get their autograph!

Black-Eyed Susan Day
Friday May 17, 2013
9:30 AM

One of Pimlico’s oldest stakes races, the Black-Eyed Susan was first run at Pimlico in 1919. The mile and one-eighth test, for three-year-old fillies is traditionally run the Friday before the Preakness and has long been recognized as the middle jewel of the traditional filly Triple Crown, which also includes the Kentucky Oaks Stakes and the Acorn. Don’t miss any of the fun, including:

• A 13-race program, including the $500,000 Black-Eyed Susan Stakes (G2), the $300,000 Pimlico Special (G3), the $30,000 Pimlico “Battle of the Sexes” Jockey Challenge with eight of the top riders, and the Lady Legends for the Cure IV Race.

• The People’s Pink Party and first ever infield concert featuring Goo Goo Dolls, Rodney Atkins and Rachel Farley.

• Handicapping sessions, celebrity jockey autograph sessions, book signings, and more!!

138th Running of the Preakness Stakes and InFieldFest
Saturday May 18, 2013

One of the nation’s largest, single-day, annual sporting events! Once again Baltimore’s Old Hilltop comes alive with the running of the 138th Preakness Stakes, where the finest three-year old thoroughbreds will compete for $1 million in the middle jewel of the Triple Crown.

The day will feature live performances by international superstar Pitbull and hip-hop duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. Both artists will play extended sets on the Main Stage. Afrojack will open the main stage with electronic dance music.

In addition to the main stage headliners, Preakness InfieldFest will host live music from Chevelle, Florida-Georgia Line and Kristen and the Noise on the Jägermeister Stage along with a variety of other activities, including the return of the popular Beer Garden and bottomless MUG Club. http://www.preakness.com/infield/infieldfest

If you will be celebrating the Preakness with a party at your home, be sure to check out Pinterest for Preakness Playlists, Recipes, Decor & More!

 

Maryland Themed Preakness Dessert

Preakness week is here and we’re busy planning a festive Maryland themed affair! Not only are we celebrating having the second jewel of the Triple Crown in our home state but we’re cheering on Orb, the winner of the Kentucky Derby, whose owners are from Baltimore County! In honor of all this Maryland Pride we created a delicious dessert using Baltimore’s very own BERGER COOKIES! It’s a treat that’s sure to make any Baltimorean proud!

Lemon Raspberry Berger Cookie Trifle
Recipe By: Molly Neifeld
1-2 Packages of Berger Cookies, chopped
Lemon Pudding
Raspberry Sauce
Homemade Whipped Cream

Chop the Berger cookies into equal size pieces that match the size of your container. We used small dessert glasses so the pieces were pretty small. Set aside until you’re ready to use.

Prepare the Lemon pudding according to the package. Set aside until you’re ready to use.

Make the whipped cream with a small amount of powdered sugar. The cookies are very sweet so you don’t have to have an overload of sugar. Set aside until ready to use.

To make the raspberry sauce, combine the frozen raspberries in a small sauce pan and heat until the berries start to break down. You can add a little sugar to the sauce if you feel it’s necessary. No more than 1 Tablespoon since the tangy of the berries helps to balance this dessert.

To assemble the trifle, layer the chopped Berger cookies, lemon pudding, raspberry sauce and whipped cream. Create as many layers as your dish will allow. Top the finished trifle with any remaining cookies! Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Don’t have Berger Cookies around you? Order them online. bergercookies.com

DMV Weekend Happenings May 3-5

This weekend is full of events from Cinco de Mayo to the Gold Cup and much more!

Washington, DC Events

DC 101 Chili Cook Off RFK Stadium 2400 East Capitol Street Washington, DC 20003 Time: Saturday 12 pm to 9 pm Price: $35.50 to $65 Enjoy a full day of music while 101 chili cooks compete in four categories: Red Chili, Green Chili, Freestyle and Salsa. Bands include Silversun Pickups, Awolnation, and Sound Garden.

Cinco De Mayo Festival National Mall between 8th and 12th Streets Time: Sunday Noon to 6 pm Price: Free Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with this annual Latino celebration features live music and family entertainment.

LivingSocial’s BeerFest Fairgrounds Container Park 1299 Half Street SE Time: Saturday and Sunday at 12 pm Price: $35-$55 Head to DC this weekend to enjoy this jam-slammed fest featuring some 50 breweries, along with some of DC’s best food trucks and loads of entertainment, including an awesome silent disco.

Virginia Events

Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival Downtown Winchester Time: Friday 8 am to 8 pm; Saturday 8 am to 8 pm; Sunday 10 am to 9 pm Tickets can be purchased at the event. The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival celebrates the advent of spring in the Shenandoah Valley as evidenced by the blooming of the area’s apple trees, one of the most important natural resources in the Winchester-Frederick County, VA area.

Virginia Gold Cup Great Meadow 90 Main St  Warrenton, VA 20186 Time: Gates open Saturday at 10 am Price: $85 Come enjoy the 88th running of the world famous Virginia Gold Cup steeplechase race. Race day features six hurdle and timber horses races, Jack Russell Terrier races, tent, tailgate and hat contests, and vendor booths for shopping.

Maryland Events

National Harbor Food and Wine Festival National Harbor 137 National Plaza
National Harbor, MD 20745 Time: Saturday and Sunday 1 pm to 6 pm Price: $45 Join in the fun for the 6th Annual Wine and Food Festival at National Harbor; bringing together world-renowned chefs, artisanal craftsmen, and culinary pioneers with thousands of Metro DC’s foodies.

Baltimore Flower Mart  Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4 from 11AM – 8PM both days in the parks surrounding the Washington Monument. It will contain a glorious mix of old and new, from our returning garden and arts and crafts vendors to many new vendors, traditional contests and a new feature, the Duchess of Windsor Happy Hour on Friday from 5 – 7PM, and exciting entertainment including a new country band, an experimental dance group and our outstanding Children’s Camp.

Towsontown Spring Festival Free entry, enjoy dozens of food & craft vendors, lots of live music, carnival rides & games for children and beer gardens for adults. May 4th , (10-7pm) & May 5th, (1-7pm), 2013. Located in “Downtown Towson”

Hero Rush High Point Farm 23730 Frederick Rd Clarksburg, MD 20871 Time: Saturday starting at 9 am. Please visit the website to see specific wave times. Price: $85 Do you have what it takes to be a hero? Race through a 3-5 mile course of heroic (and unique!) obstacles — slide, climb, get wet, get lost, get WETTER, make some saves and much, much more!

Sports at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

Washington Capitals vs NY Rangers Stanley Cup Playoffs Game 2, Saturday at 12:30 pm, Verizon Center

The 139th Running of the Kentucky Derby, Saturday, May 4th. Televised coverage 4pm-7pm on NBC. Post time scheduled for 6:24 PM. Learn more about horse racing terms before the big race here.

WWE SMACKDOWN World Tour, Sunday at 5 pm, Show Place Arena

Area Concerts at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

Bullet for My Valentine, The Fillmore Silver Spring, Friday at 6:30 pm

MGMT, Byrd Stadium at University of Maryland, Friday at 5 pm

Limp Bizkit, Rams Head Live Baltimore, Friday at 9 pm

Foreigner, Pier Six Concert Pavilion Baltimore, Friday at 8 pm

M3 Rock Festival, Merriweather Post Pavilion Columbia, Friday at 11 am

Howie Day, The Birchmere Alexandria, Saturday at 7:30 pm

Earth Wind and Fire, Pier Six Concert Pavilion Baltimore, Sunday at 7:30 pm

Relient K, Rams Head Live Baltimore, Sunday at 7 pm

Movies Opening this Weekend

Iron Man Action Adventure Sci-Fi 130 Minutes When Tony Stark’s world is torn apart by a formidable terrorist called the Mandarin, he starts an odyssey of rebuilding and retribution. Starring Robert Downey Jr, Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle, and Guy Pearce

Beginners Guide to Horse Racing

We’ve rounded up Horse Racing and betting terms and phrases to make you an expert when it comes to watching the races! Know your Exacta from your Trifecta and Furlong from your Filly!

Across the Board – Bet of a horse to come in win (1^st), place (2^nd) and show (3^rd). If the horse wins, the player collects three ways; if second, two ways; and if third, one way, losing the win and place bets

Breeze – Working a horse out at a moderate speed

Closer – Horse who runs best towards the end of the race

Club House Turn – The turn immediately after the finish

Colors/Silks – The color of the jacket & cap of the jockeys are often the colors associated with the barn/owners of the horse

Colt – Ungelded male horse, age 4 or younger

Exacta – Wager in which the first two finishers in a race, in exact order of finish, must be picked

Fast Track – Optimum condition for the dirt track, fast, dry and even

Field – All the runners in the race

Filly – Female horse, age 4 or younger

Furlong – One-eighth of a mile; 220 yards, 660 feet

Graduate – Winning for the first time

Groom – Person caring for the horse or horses washing, grooming and feeding

Hot Walker – Person who walks horses to cool them after a workout or race

In The Money – Finishing 1^st, 2^nd or 3^rd

Inquiry – Reviewing the race to check for possible rule infractions that may affect the outcome of the race

Length – Length of horse from nose to tail, approximately 8 feet

Morning Line – Odds quoted before wagering begins

Nose – Smallest distance a horse can win by

On The Nose – Betting a horse to win only

Paddock – Where horses are saddled before the race

Post – Starting point or position in starting gate

Post Parade – The walk from the paddock to the gate past the stands with all of the horses in post-position order

Post Position – Position of stall in starting game, Post 1 is closest to the rail

Scratch – Horse is removed from the race before it begins

Show – Wagering on a horse to finish in the money, 3^rd or better

Starting Gate – Mechanical device with stalls for each horse to stay in until the race begins and doors release

Stickers/Studs – Spikes on the horse shoes to give horse better traction in mud or soft track

Stretch – Final straight position of the track to the finish line

Tongue Strap or Tie – Cloth or rubber used to tie down a horse’s tongue to keep it out of their airway

Track Record – Fastest distance at a particular track

Trainer – Person who trains the horse and makes decisions about where and when they will race

Trifecta – Wager picking the first three finishers in exact order

Turf – Race is run on a grass track rather than dirt

Triple Crown – Consists of three races for three-year-old Thoroughbred horses. Winning all three of these races is the highest accomplishment in horse racing. Both colts & geldings can run in these races. Horses do not have to run in all three races, and do not have to have the same jockey for all three races, though they typically do.

Kentucky Derby 1 ¼ mile dirt track race, held the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY.

Preakness Stakes 1 3/16 mile dirt track race, held two weeks after the Derby at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, MD.

Belmont Stakes 1 ½ mile long dirt track race, the longest in Thoroughbred racing at Belmont Park in Bemlont, NY

The last Triple Crown winner was Affirmed in 1978.

Triple Tiara – Filly Triple Crown
Races are held the evening before each race for only fillies. These races are called Kentucky Oaks, Black-Eyed Susan Stakes and Acorn Stakes

 

 

Weekend Happenings in the DMV April 26-28

We’ve rounded up events for Craft lovers, Pet lovers and Sports Fans throughout the DMV! We hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Washington, DC Events

Filmfest DC A festival featuring over 80 different films, documentaries and shorts representing the best in new cinema from around the world! Please visit the website for show times, as well as prices and locations!

Smithsonian Craft Show National Building Museum 401 F Street NW Time: Friday 10:30 am to 8:30 pm; Saturday 10:30 am to 5:30 pm; Sunday 11 am to 5 pm Price: $15 This is your chance to buy unique crafts from the most prestigious exhibition of contemporary American arts in the nation.

Pink and Drink Black Finn American Saloon 16201 I Street NW Time: Saturday registration between 12 pm and 4 pm Price: $20 Grab your friends and join the cause as they bar hop around some of the best bars in DC. Put on your best pink attire and parade around DuPont all in the name of breast cancer awareness.

Virginia Events

Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival Downtown Winchester Time: Friday 3 pm to 10 pm; Saturday 11 am to 6 pm Tickets can be purchased at the event. The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival celebrates the advent of spring in the Shenandoah Valley as evidenced by the blooming of the area’s apple trees, one of the most important natural resources in the Winchester-Frederick County, VA area.

Great Grapes! Wine, Arts & Food Festival Reston Town Center 11900 Market Street Reston, Va Time: Friday and Saturday 12 pm to 6 pm Price: Ticket prices vary, please visit the website Over 200 great Virginia wines will be featured along with live music, food, and crafts.

Maryland Events

Paws in the Park Dog Walk and Festival Bohrer Park at Summit Hall Farm 506 S. Frederick Avenue Gaithersburg, MD Time: Sunday Noon – 4 pm Price: $20 Be a part of a fun filled afternoon including a 1 mile walk, pet games, food, music and more!

Jerry Seinfeld Live Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall 1212 Cathedral St Baltimore MD Time: Saturday at 7 and 9:30 pm Price: $66-82 The well known stand up comedian best known for his work on Seinfeld is coming to Maryland this weekend and its a show you won’t want to miss.

Ravens Spring Football Festival M&T Bank Stadium 1101 Russell St. Baltimore, MD Time: Saturday Noon-4 pm Price: Adults $20 Children $15 What better way to spend the 2013 NFL Draft than with your World Champion Baltimore Ravens? Watch the draft live on the large screens and TVs throughout the stadium. Activities will include interactive games on the field, home locker room tours, Poe’s Mascot Scrimmage, face painting and more.

Sugarloaf Craft Festival Maryland State Fairgrounds 2200 York Road Timonium, MD  Time: Friday and Saturday 10 am to 6 pm Sunday 10 am to 5 pm Price: $10 Lovers of fine arts and crafts will enjoying attending this event featuring over 250 top artisans displaying and selling everything from pottery to jewelry.

Sports at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

Washington Nationals vs Reds, Friday at 7:05 pm, Nats Park

Washington Nationals vs Reds, Saturday at 1:05 pm, Nats Park

DC Roller Girls DC All- Stars, Saturday at 4 pm, DC Armory

Washington Capitals vs Boston, Saturday at 7 pm, Verizon Center

Washington Nationals vs Reds, Sunday at 1:35 pm, Nats Park

Movies Opening this Weekend

Pain and Gain Action Comedy Crime Drama Thriller 130 Minutes A trio of bodybuilders in Florida get caught up in an extortion ring and a kidnapping scheme that goes terribly wrong. Starring Rebel Wilson, Mark Wahlberg, Dwayne Johnson, and Anthony Mackie

The Big Wedding Comedy 90 Minutes A long-divorced couple fakes being married as their family unites for a wedding. Starring Robert Di Niro, Katherine Heigl, Diane Keaton, and Amanda Seyfried

Weekend Happenings in the DMV April 19-21

Washington, DC Events

Filmfest DC A festival featuring over 80 different films, documentaries and shorts representing the best in new cinema from around the world! Please visit the website for show times, as well as prices and locations!

Botanic Gardens Earth Day Celebration United States Botanic Gardens 100 Maryland Ave SW Time: Saturday 10 am to 2 pm Price: Free Enjoy cooking demonstrations with seasonal produce and meet with representatives of environmental organizations from throughout the region. Drop by and learn all the ways that you can make the planet a healthier place.

Celebrate Earth Day with the National Zoo National Zoo 3001 Connecticut Ave NW  Washington, DC 20008 Time: Saturday 11 am to 2 pm Price: Free Celebrate Earth Day and meet the Smithsonian
National Zoo’s Green Team experts, participate in “green”-themed crafts, and
learn simple daily actions that help you enjoy a more environmentally friendly
lifestyle. State Farm will host a special children’s area at the Kids’ Farm
where children can make their own plant pots with recycled newspapers, as well
as a garden journal. Free and open to the public.

Virginia Events

Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus Dragons Patriot Center 4500 Patriot Circle Fairfax, VA 22030 Time: Friday 1 pm and 7:30 pm; Saturday 11:30 am, 3:30 pm, and 7:30 pm; Sunday 1 pm and 5 pm Price: $15-$110 The circus is in town! For the first time in circus history, myth and majesty will share the arena during this must-see family event that can only be witnessed at The Greatest Show On Earth. Dragons, acrobats, tigers, and more share the stage in a performance the entire family will be sure to enjoy!

Leesburg Flower and Garden Festival Downtown Leesburg, Va at the Intersection of King and Market Streets Time: Saturday 10 am to 6 pm Sunday 10 am to 5 pm More than 100 vendors come together to display landscape designs, gardening supplies, outdoor living items, plants, flowers, herbs and much more! There will be food, music, entertainment and crafts, in this family friendly event you don’t want to miss!

Alexandria Earth Day Ben Brenman Park 4800 Brenman Park Dr  Alexandria, VA 22304 Time: Saturday 10 am to 2 pm Price: Free This year’s theme is Water: Every Drop Counts! The event will include educational exhibits, demonstrations, hands-on activities for children, a tree sale, and more! This year’s event will also feature the Up-cycling Showcase, where students will showcase their creative interpretation of the event theme through literature, fashion, visual arts and performing arts. Schools will be judged on artistic and creative merit, and the winner will receive funds to put toward an
environmental project at the school!

Maryland Events

Piccadilly Circus Andover Park Equestrian Center 603 Andover Road  Linthicum, MD 20745 Time: Friday 4:30 pm and 7:30 pm; Saturday 1:30 pm, 4:30 pm, and 7:30 pm; Sunday 1 pm, 3:30 pm, and 6 pm Price: $10-$48 From the producers of the Ice Capades comes the “fun circus,” featuring animal acts, acrobatics, clowns and more!

Privateer Fest Fells Point Thames and South Ann Streets Baltimore, MD. Times: Friday 6 pm to 10 pm; Saturday 10 am to 7 pm; Sunday 10 am to 6 pm Price: Free  pirate themed festival with drinks, music and an afternoon battle. There will also be a Pet Costume Contest to benefit BARCS!

Bay Bridge Boat Show Bay Bridge Marina 357 Pier 1 Rd., Stevensville, MD 21666 Times: Friday and Saturday 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday 10 am to 5 pm Price: Adults $12 Children (7-12) $4 Kick off the boating season in style this spring with a display of hundreds of new and late model brokerage boats and boat equipment displays.

Celebrate Earth Day at the National Aquarium National Aquarium 501 E Pratt St  Baltimore, MD 21202 Time: Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm Price: Adult $29.95 Child (3 to 11) $20.95 Join in the celebration of the planet! Talk to our team about ways you can help save the planet and take part in other fun activities. Repurpose recyclable materials into cool crafts, check out our eco-fair, watch performances of the Richmond Indigenous Gourd Orchestra and enjoy fun activities happening all weekend! Activities are included with Aquarium admission.

March For the Animals Druid Hill Park 2600 Madison Ave Baltimore MD 21217 Time: Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm Price: Donations support the Maryland SPCA Show your support for our furry friends with this annual event which features a 1.5-mile walk around Druid Hill park, contests, demonstrations, a market of pet-friendly vendors, entertainment and more. Proceeds benefit the Maryland SPCA. Charm City Concierge will have a Pack walking again this year. If you would like to donate to the Concierge K-9′s please visit our fundraising page!

Sports at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

Baltimore Orioles vs Dodgers, Friday at 7:05 pm, Camden Yards

Baltimore Orioles vs Dodgers, Saturday at 7:05 pm, Camden Yards

Baltimore Orioles vs Dodgers, Sunday at 1:35 pm, Camden Yards

DC United vs Philadelphia, Sunday at 7 pm, RFK Stadium

Movies Opening this Weekend

Oblivion Action Adventure Mystery Sci Fi 126 Minutes A veteran assigned to extract Earth’s remaining resources begins to question what he knows about his mission and himself. Starring Tom Cruise, Morgan Freeman, Olga Kurylenko, and Andrea Riseborough

The Lords of Salem Horror Thriller 101 Minutes Heidi, a radio DJ, is sent a box containing a record — a “gift from the Lords.” The sounds within the grooves trigger flashbacks of her town’s violent past. Is Heidi going mad, or are the Lords back to take revenge on Salem, Massachusetts? Starring Sheri Moon Zombie, Bruce Davison, Jeff Daniel Phillips, and Meg Foster

Filly Brown Drama Music 80 Minutes A promising hip-hop rhymer from Los Angeles finds herself in a gray area when a record producer offers her a compromising shot at stardom. Starring Gina Rodriguez, Jenni Rivera, Lou Diamond Phillips, and Edward James Olmos

Tax Day Deals – 2013

 

The following retailers are offering Tax Day specials on Monday, 4/15/2013! Ease the pain of the big day by enjoying a special discounted treat!

California Tortilla
Free chips and queso with a purchase on April 14^th! Use the secret phrase “1040”.

Cinnabon
Tax Day Bites: April 15th from 6-8pm. No complicated forms, just two free Bites.

Arby’s
For the 3rd straight year, we’re giving away free Curly Fries or Potato Cakes on Tax Day. Get your coupon & drop by on April 15th. You can also enter to win one of ten $500 tax relief payouts.

Great American Cookie
Free birthday cake cookie on Tax Day, 4/15

AMC Theatres
Free Small Popcorn
Stop Crunching Numbers & Start Crunching Popcorn at a Great Movie
Taxes can be very…well, taxing. That’s why we’re giving you a small popcorn on us. Bring this offer any movie April 12–15 and celebrate the close of tax season with a crunch.

Panda Express
Giving away free single servings of Samurai Surf and Turf.  No purchase necessary.  You must print the coupon or show it on your mobile device.

Boston Market
“Big Rib-bate” special (get it?): Two rib meals for $10.40 on Monday, April 15. No coupon needed. This offer includes a 1/4 rack of St. Louis Style BBQ Ribs with mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet corn and freshly baked cornbread.

Living Social
Use promo code TAXDAY and save 15%

Weekend Happenings in the DMV April 12-14

The warm weather has arrived and there are lots of fun events this weekend! We hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Washington, DC Events

Cherry Blossom Festival Please visit our Cherry Blossom blog page for Cherry Blossom events, pricing, and times!

Filmfest DC A festival featuring over 80 different films, documentaries and shorts representing the best in new cinema from around the world! Please visit the website for show times, as well as prices and locations!

Alicia Keys Verizon Center 601 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004 Time: Sunday at 7:30 pm Price: $50- $128 For one night only Alicia Keys comes to the Verizon Center as a part of her “Set the World on Fire” tour and you are invited! With such hits as “Girl on Fire” and “If I Ain’t Got You” this is one show you won’t want to miss!

Spamalot National Theatre 1321 Pennsylvania Ave NW  Washington, DC 20004 (202) 628-6161 Times: Friday at 8 pm; Saturday at 12 pm, 4 pm, and 8 pm; Sunday at 1 pm and 6:30 pm Price: $65-$125 If you like the blending of comedy and music, this Tony winning musical is for you! Telling the legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, and their quest for the Holy Grail, Monty Python’s Spamalot features a chorus line of dancing divas and knights, killer rabbits and one legless knight.

Virginia Events

Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus Dragons Patriot Center 4500 Patriot Circle Fairfax, VA 22030 Time: Friday 10:30 am and 7:30 pm; Saturday 11:30 am, 3:30 pm, and 7:30 pm; Sunday 1 pm and 5 pm Price: $15-$110 The circus is in town! For the first time in circus history, myth and majesty will share the arena during this must-see family event that can only be witnessed at The Greatest Show On Earth. Dragons, acrobats, tigers, and more share the stage in a performance the entire family will be sure to enjoy!

Broadway’s Next H!t Musical The Barns at Wolf Trap 1645 Trap Rd  Vienna, VA 22182 (703) 255-1900 Time: Friday at 8 pm and Saturday at 7:30 pm Price: $25 Welcome to the world’s only unscripted theatre awards show musical, made fresh every evening from audience suggestions, on-point accompaniment, and the razor-sharp minds and crystalline voices of some truly hilarious triple-threat improvisers.

Wine Festival Gunston Hall 10709 Gunston Road Mason Neck, Va 22079 Time: Saturday from 4 pm to 8 pm Price: $25 must be 21+ Relax with a glass of wine  and enjoy a sunset tour of the mansion and grounds. Experience George Mason’s home in an intimate setting while listening to a wine specialist discuss the wines being poured, and enjoying hors d’oeuvres. Call 703-550-9220 or your concierge to reserve a spot!

Maryland Events

Piccadilly Circus Howard Fairgrounds 2210 Fairground Road West Friendship, MD 20745 Time: Friday 4:30 pm and 7:30 pm; Saturday 1:30 pm, 4:30 pm, and 7:30 pm; Sunday 1 pm, 3:30 pm, and 6 pm Price: $10-$48 From the producers of the Ice Capades comes the “fun circus,” featuring animal acts, acrobatics, clowns and more!

Sugarloaf Craft Festival Montgomery County Fairgrounds 16 Chestnut St Gaithersburg MD 20877 Time: Friday and Saturday 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday 10 am to 5 pm Price: Adults $10 Children (12 and under) Free Lovers of arts and crafts will be thrilled when over 250 top artisans come to Maryland to display and sell their unique creations in pottery, sculpture, glass, jewelry, fashion, home décor, furniture and home accessories. With so many things to choose from, this event is sure to please everyone!

Les Miserables The Hippodrome 12 N Eutaw St  Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 837-7400 Times: Friday at 8 pm; Saturday at 2 pm and 8 pm; Sunday at 1 pm and 6:30 pm Price: $35-$150 The story begins in 1815 as Jean Valjean, a man condemned to 19 years of hard labor for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his family.Follow his heartwarming tale brought to life through the power of music.

Sports at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

Washington Wizards vs Philadelphia, Friday at 7pm, Verizon Center

Washington Nationals vs Atlanta, Friday at 7:05 pm, Nats Park

Washington Nationals vs Atlanta, Saturday at 1:05 pm, Nats Park

DC United vs New York, Saturday 7 at  pm, RFK Stadium

Washington Capitals vs Tampa Bay, Saturday at 7 pm, Verizon Center

Washington Nationals vs Atlanta, Sunday at 1:35 pm, Nats Park

Movies Opening this Weekend

42 Biography Drama Sport The life story of Jackie Robinson and his history-making signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers under the guidance of team executive Branch Rickey. Starring Chadwick Boseman, T.R. Knight, Harrison Ford, and Nicole Beharie

Scary Movie 5 Comedy A couple begin to experience some unusual activity after bringing their newborn son home from the hospital. With the help of home-surveillance cameras and a team of experts, they learn they’re being stalked by a nefarious demon. Starring Simon Rex, Ashley Tisdale, Charlie Sheen, and Lindsay Lohan

April Fool’s Day

Looking for some new April Fool’s Day pranks to pull off on your friends and family? Check out our favorite jokes that are sure to leave everyone laughing in the end.

Transform your dinner into “dessert” Meatloaf Cupcakes with Mashed Potato Icing

Cook your favorite meatloaf recipe in muffin tins and pipe mashed potatoes on top of the baked loaves so it looks like icing. You can garnish with finely diced carrots and chives for sprinkles. Take the prank a step further and dye your mashed potatoes! This is a great way to surprise your kids for dinner or lunch.

Your April Fool’s Dinner wouldn’t be complete without a funny dessert. Our favorite funny dessert is Spaghetti and Meatball Cupcakes. Simply tint vanilla icing with coco powder and yellow food coloring to achieve the look of pasta. Top the cupcakes with a chocolate donut hole or truffle covered in a dark raspberry jam. Grate White chocolate over the top for the finishing look of Parmesan cheese!

A really fun and easy joke to pull off on your family or co-workers is a Balloon Avalanche. Tape a plastic trash bag to a door frame and fill the space between the bag and door with balloons. When someone opens the door they will be showered with the contents! You can also use packing peanuts, popcorn, or egg crates. Just remember, you might be enlisted to help clean up!

 

If you share a copier with a few co-workers and want some giggles, all you need is a paper clip. Make a few copies of a paperclip and put the printed copies back into the paper tray so when someone makes a copy they think there was a paperclip on the glass.  It usually takes a few minutes for someone to figure out what’s going on and you’ll be filled with laughing watching!

Want more pranks? Check out our Pinterest Page!

Easter Events, Activities & Brunch Spots – 2013

There are so many fun ways to enjoy the Easter Weekend with your family. From Egg Hunts at the Zoo to riding a train with the Easter Bunny we have outlined our favorites for you! And if you are still undecided for where to have brunch on Sunday, we’ve shared our favorites places and specials in this post!

Mary Sue Candies Bunny BonanZOO 2013
Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Baltimore, MD
Friday, March 29^th  - Sunday, March 31^st
10:00 am- 2:00 pm

Join the Zoo as they celebrate the holiday with their annual festival. Enjoy games, spring crafts, entertainment, bounce house and free egg hunts!

Easter Monday: Celebrating the African American Family Tradition
National Zoo, Washington, D.C.
Monday, April 1, 2013
11 am – 4 pm

Free and Open to the Public!
Since 1891, Easter Monday at the National Zoo has been a historic tradition in the African American community. The National Zoo proudly commemorates this family tradition that has grown to include all families in the metro area. The event will include special family activities, a traditional Easter egg hunt, animal demonstrations, educational activities highlighting African animals. live entertainment and more!

Train Ride & Breakfast Buffet with the B&O Bunny in the Roundhouse
B & O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD
Friday, March 29 & Saturday, March 30
8:00 am – 9:30 pm

Join us for our annual Easter Bunny breakfast buffet in the Roundhouse. Enjoy story time with Choo Choo Blue, take an indoor carousel ride, and have your photo taken with our guest of honor. Then “All Aboard” for an exclusive train ride with the B&O Bunny!  Space is limited; advance prepaid reservations required. B&O Member tickets are $25 for adults & $20 for children ages 2 and up. General admission tickets are $33 for adults & $25 for children ages 2 and up. To purchase tickets contact Dana Kirn at 410-752-2462 x 221. 

Reston Zoo Easter Egg – Stravaganza
March 23, 24 and March 30, 31
Reston Zoo, Vienna, VA

Join your friends at the Reston Zoo for a fun filled Easter weekend. Get your photo taken with the Easter bunny, feed the baby lambs, goats, and chicks. Have your face painted with your favorite animal before venturing out to the Safari Easter egg hunt. For toddlers we have private Easter egg hunt just for them.

Spring Easter Festival
March 9, 2013 – April 7, 2013
Daily 10:00am—5:00pm  **Egg Hunts on Weekends
Ticonderoga Farm, Chantilly, VA

Come join us and the Easter Bunny for some festive fun.  Egg Hunts feature candy and toy-filled eggs.  Find those special golden goose eggs for a prize.  Kids and adults can get on the slides, take a hayride, visit our farm animals and roast marshmallows.  Bring your camera for photo ops with the Easter Bunny.  Please, arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the Egg Hunt and remember to bring your own basket or bag for collecting eggs. $8.95-$11.95

Easter Brunch, Lunch and Dining Specials

Here are some of our favorite spots for Easter!

DC

Bibiana
$45 per person. Selection of 3 courses
1100 New York Avenue Northwest
Washington, DC 20005

701 Restaurant
$45 per person
701 Pennsylvania Ave, NW
Washington, DC 20004

Blue Duck Tavern
Your meal at Blue Duck Tavern will open with a sophisticated display of breads, cheeses, meats and seasonal salads, followed by a choice of an entrée and side dishes. A fancy buffet of sweet pastries, cakes and anything else you can think of will complete your meal. This brunch costs $95 for adults and $42 for children between the ages of 6-12. Reservations are available between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
1201 24th St. N.W.
Washington, DC 20037
(the Obama’s celebrated their 17^th wedding anniversary here!)

Dino
This rustic Italian restaurant in Cleveland Park will be serving both Easter brunch and Easter dinner. The brunch will be available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. A three-course menu will be offered with egg dishes, house made pasta, salads, soups and, of course, rich Italian desserts. The menu is priced at $45 for adults, and a special kids menu is also available. The kids menu will have several options, and can be ordered as a one-course, two-course or three-course menu. The price for the three-course kids menu is $16, two-course is $12 and one-course is $6.
3435 Connecticut Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20008
(202) 686-2966

Odyssey Washington
For a fun and unique Easter, consider buying a ticket for the Odyssey cruise Easter brunch. As you sail along the Potomac River, you will indulge in an elaborate buffet complete with a complimentary glass of champagne, live music and even a goodie bag. The array of food will include salads, scrambled eggs, hash browns, waffles, French toast, pasta, smoked salmon and even chocolate fondue. Guests can choose to buy tickets for the early Easter brunch, which is from 10 a.m. to noon, or the late Easter brunch, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $65.90 for adults and $35.95 for children 11 and under.
600 Water St. S.W.
Washington, DC 20024
(866) 306-2469

Maryland

Explorers – Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore
Inspired by safari legends and adventure lore, the exotic Explorers Lounge is lavishly decorated with hand painted murals, adventure memorabilia and fine antiques. Chef’s favorites include Maryland crab cakes and Cream of Crab Soup (awarded “Best in Baltimore”). You will also enjoy an unbeatable view of Baltimore’s scenic Inner Harbor! Adults: $55.00, Children (4-12): $25.00, Children (Under 4): Complimentary
Seating Times: 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m
550 Light Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
410.234.0550

Wit & Wisdom
Celebrate Easter over a delectable Brunch Buffet at the Four Seasons featuring a carving station, hot options & cold selections. Beautiful views of the Baltimore Inner Harbor
$45 per adult, $30 kids (12 & under). 8am-2pm. 2 hour seatings.
200 International Drive
Baltimore, MD 21202

Red Red Wine Bar
New Orleans Sunday Brunch: A rich meal served in a beautiful, music-filled room. Is there any better way to greet the new week? We have deep roots in New Orleans and bring a taste of our adopted hometown every Sunday from 9am-2pm. Come live, laugh and let loose. Peep Infused Vodka – this week only!
189B Main Street
Annapolis, MD
410-990-1144

Tersiguel’s French Country Restaurant
Special Easter brunch fixed price menu $35.00 for Adults, $17.00 for Children under 12 years. Brunch seating will be from 10:00 to 11:30am only.
8293 Main Street
Ellicott City, MD 21043
(410) 465-4004

For More Options in Your Area:

Baltimore Metro http://www.opentable.com/promo.aspx?pid=228&m=18

Washington, D.C. & Northern Virginia http://www.opentable.com/promo.aspx?m=9&ref=2264&pid=228