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

Weekend Happenings in the DMV – May 10-12

With beautiful weather and Mother’s Day this promises to be a great weekend! Here are our favorite weekend events, including our guide to all of the brunch locations Mom could ever choose from!

Washington, DC Events

DC Home brewers/ Sam Adams Third Annual Home brew Competition Meridian Pint 3400 11th Street NW Time: Saturday 1 pm Price: $15 Meridian Pint’s latest home brew contest is basically a tournament of champions: Judges selected 15 local home brewers to submit bottles of their favorite original beers, and the winner gets the opportunity to make their beer at Sam Adams’s pilot brewery. You are invited to sample all 15 of these delicious home brewed beers at what is sure to be a fun afternoon event!

Georgetown Garden Tour Tour starts at Christ Church, 31st and O Streets NW Time: Saturday 10 am to 5 pm Price: $35 Come tour 8 of Georgetown’s most beautiful private gardens and afterward sip on a delectable afternoon tea at Keith Hall.

National Train Day Union Station 50 Massachusetts Ave NE Time: Saturday 11 am to 4 pm Price: $5 for adults; children 12 and under free Celebrate National Train day in style at Union Station, where the history of how trains transformed America comes to life with family friendly festivities including interactive exhibits, model trains, and more!

Mother’s Day Brunch Guide

Virginia Events

Friday Night Live! Town Green in Downtown Herndon 777 Lynn Street Herndon, VA Time: Friday at 6:30 pm Price: Free Join in for all the fun with one of the most popular outdoor concert series’ in the DC area! Featuring local and regional acts from up and down the east coast. This Friday featuring Blue Label + South Bay bringing a fresh, new take to the dance floor.

Mother’s Day Celebration! Ticonderoga Farms 26469 Ticonderoga Rd Chantilly, VA Times: Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 6 pm Price: Moms are free. $8.95 regular admission Celebrate Mother’s Day in a different way at Ticonderoga Farms. There will be crafts, entertainment, and lots of great vendors!

Mother’s Day Brunch Guide

Maryland Events

Bethesda Fine Arts Festival Located in Bethesda’s Woodmont Triangle, along Norfolk, Auburn, and Del Ray Avenues Time: Saturday 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday 10 am to 5 pm Price: Free See the works of 140 contemporary artists in this two day event and enjoy live entertainment, children’s activities and downtown Bethesda restaurants.

Annapolis Wine Expo Navy- Marine Corps Memorial Stadium 550 Taylor Avenue Annapolis, MD Time: Saturday Session 1 12 pm to 2:30 pm Saturday Session 2 3:30 pm to 6 pm Price: Session 1: $50 Session 2: $60 Over 100 national and international wines will be served where guests can also sample their favorite foods from local restaurants.

45th Annual Market Day Cylburn Arboretum 4915 Greenspring Ave Baltimore, MD 21209 Time: Saturday 8 am to 12 pm Price: Free  full of family-friendly activities, gardening seminars, and more. Focused on the urban gardener, visitors can purchase plants and gardening supplies from more than 15 vendors. Parking is $10.

Mothers Day Brunch Guide

Sports at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

Washington Capitals vs NY Rangers Stanley Cup Playoffs Game 5, Friday at 7:30 pm, Verizon Center

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

Washington Nationals vs Cubs, Saturday at 4:05 pm, Nats Park

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

Area Concerts at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

Taylor Swift: The Red Tour, Saturday at 7 pm; Sunday at 7 pm, Verizon Center

Sweetlife Festival, Saturday at 12 pm, Merriweather Post Pavilion

Movies Opening this Weekend

The Great Gatsby Drama Romance 143 Minutes A Midwestern war veteran finds himself drawn to the past and lifestyle of his millionaire neighbor. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Joel Edgerton, Tobey Maguire, and Carey Mulligan.

Peeples Comedy 95 Minutes Sparks fly when Wade Walker crashes the Peeples annual reunion in the Hamptons to ask for their precious daughter Grace’s hand in marriage. Starring Craig Robertson, Kerry Washington, David Alan Grier, and S. Epatha Merkerson.

Weekend Happenings in the DMV – 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

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

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!

St. Patrick’s Day Party Printables

Want to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a new way this year?! Charm City Concierge has got you covered. We’ve created festive printables that are perfect for your own shindig! Simply print out what you like and start decorating for a one-a-kind party. From clover garland and cupcake/garnish flags to cup wraps and napkin rings your guests will be green with envy!

Looking for a non-traditional party idea? Why not serve an Irish brunch for all your lucky friends. It’s perfect for a Sunday celebration and you can keep things low-key if your guests celebrated through the weekend.

Start planning your menu by using our Corned Beef Hash and Fried Potato recipe! It’s the perfect way to use leftover corned beef or try a new recipe!

Corned Beef Hash and Fried Potatoes
1lb Corned Beef, cooked and chopped
1 Medium Onion, chopped
2 Lb’s Potatoes, skins removed, sliced thin
4 Bacon Slices, optional
Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper to Taste
Fresh Parsley for Garnish, optional.

Start by heating 4 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep pan and cook potatoes until they start to brown on both sides. Next add in the chopped onion and sauté until they become translucent. Add in the chopped corned beef and continue cooking until it gets crispy. Keep stirring until most of the beef is crispy. About 10 minutes. Taste and add any salt and/or pepper. Corned beef can be very salty so the amount you need to add, if any, will vary. To serve the corned beef hash and fried potatoes simply put the meal on a large platter and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve this family style.

Pair this with some warm Irish Soda Bread and an Irish Cheddar Quiche and you’ve got a great brunch to please everyone. Plus you’ll be free to mingle with your friends instead of stuck in the kitchen!

For more fun and festive Ideas, check out our Pinterest page!

Weekend Happenings in the DMV – March 15-17, 2013

So many great events from film festivals and pet expos to St. Patrick’s Day block parties and Irish Music! We hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Washington, DC Events

Nordic Cool Festival
Kennedy Center
2700 F Street
NW Washington DC 20566
202-467-4600
Time: Events Friday and Saturday 10 am to 9:30 pm; Sunday 10 am to 7:30 pm
Price: Prices vary depending on event

A month-long international festival of theater, dance, music, visual arts, literature, design, cuisine, and film to highlight the diverse cultures of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden as well as the territories of Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Áland Islands.

Francophonie Cultural Festival
Avalon Theatre
5612 Connecticut Ave NW
Washington, DC
Time: Saturday 10:30 am
Price: $6.50

The Francophonie Cultural Festival features six weeks of concerts, theatrical performances, films, culinary tastings, literary salons, children’s workshops, and more in Washington DC. The nation’s capital will resonate with the vibrant sounds, sights, and tastes of the French-speaking in the largest Francophone festival in the world. Saturdays Film information: Le Jour des Corneilles, a Family Film.

DC Environmental Film Festival
Please visit the website for times, location, and pricing for this coming weekend’s events!

The DC Environmental Film Festival features 190 documentary, feature, animated, archival, experimental and children’s films from around the world. The films will be shown at more than 75 venues around Washington, DC, including museums, embassies, libraries, universities and local theaters.

NBC4’s Health and Fitness Expo
Washington Convention Center
801 Mt. Vernon Place NW,
Washington, DC
Time: Saturday and Sunday 9 am- 5 pm
Price: Free

The Health Fair provides free health screenings, fun activities and information on products and services that relate to healthy living.

National Shamrock Festival
RFK Stadium
2400 E Capitol St
Washington, DC 20001
Time: Saturday 1 pm- 9 pm
Price: $40-$95

It’s all about the experience! Stroll the expansive festival grounds at ShamrockFest and experience entertainment and attractions like nothing else in DC. You can bounce between nine musical stages, tented party areas, beer stations as long as two football fields, bar-game areas, “athletic” competitions, craft, food & beverage markets, strolling entertainers and much… you just have to see it to believe it!

Hello Dolly!
Ford’s Theatre
2400 E Capitol St
Time: Friday and Saturday 7:30 pm
Price: $40-$95

In the Tony-winning musical farce Hello, Dolly! The cantankerous half-a-millionaire Horace Vandergelder hires matchmaker Dolly Levi to find him a wife. Dolly soon hatches a plan to woo and win Vandergelder’s hand herself, while simultaneously arranging romantic prospects for his niece, his clerks and two of Manhattan’s most eligible shop girls.

Virginia Events

St Patrick’s Day Beer Tasting and Music
O’ Malley’s Irish Pub
1960 Chain Bridge Rd
McLean, VA
Time: Friday 4 pm- 10 pm
Price: Free

Featuring food and beverage specials, as well as live music all weekend celebrating St Patrick’s Day! On Friday participate in a micro beer tasting and stay for performances from Red on Red.

Super Pet Expo
Dulles Expo Center
4368 Chantilly Shopping Center Drive
Chantilly, VA
Time: Friday 4 pm- 9 pm; Saturday 10 am- 7 pm; Sunday 10 am- 5 pm
Price: $13 Adults; $8 Kids (4-12)

Super Pet Expo is a fun-filled family event that celebrates all things cute and cuddly, boasting an array of animal exhibits, 150+ vendors selling all types of cool pet products, fun games and creature showcases. Bring your leashed pet along for the fun!

Clyde’s St Patrick’s Day Party in the Pavilion
Reston Town Center
11905 Market St
Reston, VA
Time: Saturday 10 am- 11 pm
Price: Free

Great Clyde’s Authentic Irish Fare, Irish Music, Irish Dancers, Bagpipers, Kids Area with Moon Bounces, Games, and more! Live entertainment and fun children’s activities… come out and celebrate St Patrick’s Day in style!

Lucky Leprechaun 5K
Reston Town Center
11911 Democracy Dr
Reston, VA
Time: Saturday 8:30 am
Price: $40

Run like you’ve got the luck of the Irish on your side! Grab your running buddies for the festive Lucky Leprechaun 5k with a fantastic St. Patty’s Day after-party! 3.1 miles with a Clyde’s restaurant St. Patrick’s Day celebration at the finish line!

The Fairfax Symphony Orchestra Presents the Music of Johann and Richard Strauss
George Mason University’s Center for the Arts
4373 Mason Pond Drive
Fairfax, VA
(888) 945-2468
Time: Saturday 8 pm- 10 pm
Price: $25-$55

Contrasting the music of German Richard Strauss with the Austrian Johann Strauss will provide some fun entertainment for the FSO’s patrons, in this season of “Mischief in Music.”

Maryland Events

Meet in the Street
Claddaugh Pub
2918 O’Donnell St
Baltimore, MD 21224
Time: Saturday and Sunday
Price: Free

Join in for the 18th annual Meet in the Street, where O’Donnell Street is closed off for you to enjoy live music, heated tents, and great food and drink all with an Irish flair!

O’Malley’s March
Creative Alliance
3134 Eastern Ave
Baltimore, MD 21224
Time: Saturday at 7 and 9:30 pm
Price: $25

Governor Martin O’Malley and his six-piece Celtic rock band will put on two performances at the Creative Alliance on St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Watch as the front man is the very own governor on acoustic guitar and vocals, while his accompanying musicians play Irish harp, uielann pipes, trombone, fiddle, and button accordion.

Federal Hill Block Party
S. Charles St. & Cross St.
Baltimore, MD
Time: Sunday 12 pm to 10 pm
Price: $10
Multiple beer gardens will take over Federal Hill at this day-long block party taking place in the area surrounding Cross Street Market. Irish bands and DJs will entertain the masses, while area bars will host food and drink specials. All ticket holders must be 21 or over.

ZooBloom at the Maryland Zoo
The Maryland Zoo
Druid Hill Park
Baltimore, MD
Time: Saturday 10 am- 4 pm
Price: $16.50 Adults; $11.50 Children 2-11

Celebrate the start of another wild Zoo season! The long winter is coming to an end, so it’s time to escape the indoors and enjoy the first signs of spring at The Maryland Zoo! Join in on the fun as they kick off another season of fun and family memories with special spring treats, activities and giveaways.

Sports at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!
Washington Wizards vs New Orleans, Friday at 7 pm, Verizon Center
Washington Wizards vs Phoenix, Saturday at 7 pm, Verizon Center
Washington Capitals vs Buffalo, Sunday 7 pm, Verizon Center

Movies Opening this Weekend

The Incredible Burt Wonderstone
100 minutes
Comedy
When a street magician’s stunt begins to make their show look stale, superstar magicians Burt Wonderstone and Anton Marvelton look to salvage on their act – and their friendship – by staging their own daring stunt.
Starring Steve Carell, Luke Vanek, Jim Carrey, and Olivia Wilde

The Call
96 Minutes
Thriller
When veteran 911 operator Jordan Turner receives a call from a girl who has just been abducted, she soon realizes that she must confront a killer from her past in order to save the girl’s life.
Starring Halle Berry, Evie Thompson, Abigail Breslin, and Morris Chestnut

Restaurant Weeks

Forget about losing those extra pounds gained over the holidays. Restaurant weeks (yes weeks) are still going on, with multi-course menu bargains. Restaurant Week provides a wonderful opportunity for visitors along with local residents to dine at some of the most popular restaurants for special prices. See the links below for a full list of participating restaurants. Make sure to make reservations or have your concierge do so on your behalf!

National Harbor Restaurant Week
March 4-17

Talbot County Maryland Restaurant Week
March 17-23

Weekend Happenings in the DMV: 3/8-3/10

The forecast for this weekend is promising sunny 60 degree weather! Here are some great events going on in the DMV for you enjoy your weekend!

Washington, DC Events

Nordic Cool Festival
Kennedy Center
2700 F Street
NW Washington DC 20566
202-467-4600
Time: Events Friday and Saturday 10 am to 9:30 pm; Sunday 10 am to 7:30 pm
Price: Prices vary depending on event

A month-long international festival of theater, dance, music, visual arts, literature, design, cuisine, and film to highlight the diverse cultures of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden as well as the territories of Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Áland Islands.

Intersections Arts Festival
Atlas Performing Arts Center
1333 H Street NE
Washington, DC
202.399.7993
Time: Events Friday 10:30am to 10:30pm, Saturday 10:30am to 10:30pm, and Sunday 12pm to 9:30pm
Price: Free- $28

INTERSECTIONS is a unique arts festival presented by the Atlas Performing Arts Center in Washington DC, featuring more than 600 artists in over 100 performances over three weekends. The program includes visual art, film screenings, literary readings and dance, musical and dramatic productions plus 20 free café concerts and 25 special events.

Independent Film Festival
Navy Memorial Heritage Center
701 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC
Time: Friday 10 am- 9:30 pm; Saturday 10:30 am- 9:30 pm; Sunday 10:30 am- 9:30 pm
Price: $12-$25

An award winning event that showcases a variety of feature, short, animation and documentary films by local, national, and international filmmakers. After each session there is a question and answer discussion where you can interact directly with top executives!

Washington National Opera: Manon Lescaut
Kennedy Center
2700 F Street
NW Washington DC 20566
202.467.4600
Time: Friday 7:30 pm
Price: $25-$310

Romantic and beguiling, Manon Lescaut introduces the first tragic heroine in a long list of Puccini favorites.

Adventures in Travel Expo
Washington Convention Center
801 Mt. Vernon Place NW,
Washington, DC
Time: Friday 10 am- 5 pm; Saturday 11 am- 4 pm
Price: $10-$75

If you are interested in activity based leisure travel, this convention was made for you! Learn about a wide variety of travel packages and tours, attend educational seminars, meet travel writers, and participate in hands on activities!

Virginia Events

National Capital Boat Show
Dulles Expo Center
4320 Chantilly Shopping Center
Chantilly, VA 20153
Time: Friday at noon- 8 pm; Saturday 10 am- 7 pm; Sunday at 11 am- 5 pm
Price: $10 for Adults; Kids 16 and under free

Boats, boats and more boats! Dealers from Virginia and Maryland will fill the building with everything from fishing boats to motor yachts. Also enjoy electronics, water sports and safety equipment while on display.

Highland Maple Festival
Throughout Highland County
Main Street
Monterey, VA 24465
Time: Saturday 8:30 am- 5 pm; Sunday 8:30 am- 4 pm
Price: Prices depend upon event

Each year, thousands of visitors are drawn to this unspoiled, rural region of Virginia to celebrate the “opening” of the trees and observe the process of maple syrup-making.

Spring Festival
Ticonderoga Farms
26469 Ticonderoga Rd
Chantilly, VA
Time: 10 am- 5 pm
Price: $11.95

You don’t have to wait any longer to celebrate spring or Easter! Ticonderoga Farms is hosting egg hunts every weekend with candy and toy filled eggs! Everyone can enjoy slides, hayrides, farm animals and even roasting marshmallows!

Maryland Events

Dance Bethesda Open House
Dance Bethesda
8227 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 2A
Bethesda, MD 20814
301.657.1234
Time: Friday 7-10 pm
Price: Free

Dance Bethesda opens their doors for a night of dancing! Learn ballroom, Latin and swing dancing all for free and afterwards dance the night away at Dance Bethesda’s very own dance party!

Murder Mystery Weekend
Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa
4165 Mears Ave
Chesapeake Beach, MD
410.257.5596
Time: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Price: Starting at $725 per couple

Do you think you have what it takes to solve the mystery? Join the fun during this all inclusive weekend, where your package includes a detective welcome gift, 2 night stay and more! Call or contact your concierge to make reservations today!

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Baltimore Inner Harbor
Washington Monument
Baltimore, MD
Time: 2 pm
Price: Starting at $725 per couple

Start your St. Patrick’s Day festivities right with the 58th annual Baltimore parade which flows through the inner harbor. The Parade steps off at 2:00 p.m. at the Washington Monument, and continues to Pratt Street and Market Place. You can also participate in the Shamrock 5k race right before hand at 1:15 at Charles and Franklin streets.

Shamrock Shindig
March 10, 2013
Pierce’s Park at Pier V
11am-2pm
Price: Free admission, $6 Kids Activities, $15 Drink Wristband
*Use CharmCityConcierge as the discount code to receive 20% off!

Irish Eyes will be smiling at the Waterfront Partnership’s 2nd Annual Shamrock Shindig! This event will take place Sunday, March 10th from 11AM to 2PM at Pierce’s Park, located at Pier V. Live music by Barleyjuice, a Celtic band from Philly, food trucks, beer, wine and mixed drinks, Shamrock Alley for kids, strolling leprechaun, stilt walkers, games and more!  Following the event will be 58th Annual St. Patrick’s Day parade which kicks off at 2pm. Admission to the event is FREE, which includes the band and strolling entertainment.

Shamrock Pass for Children – $6 - (each child will receive parade gear including a shamrock derby hat, green beads, Irish button, Irish flag, Irish fun brand bracelet; two crafts, temporary tattoo and cookie decorating).

Unlimited Drink Wristband for Adults 21+ – $15 - (beer, wine and mixed drinks from 11AM to 2PM).

Maryland Home and Garden Show
Maryland State Fairgrounds
2200 York Rd
Timonium, MD
Time: Friday 10am – 6pm; Saturday 10am – 9pm; Sunday 10am-6 pm
Price: Adults: $12 Children (6-12): $3 Children under 6: Free

The Maryland Home & Garden Show is blossoming with indoor and outdoor inspiration—including artful landscaping inspired by cinema classics such as The Great Gatsby.

Heavy Seas Real Ale and BBQ Festival
Heavy Seas Beer
4615 Hollins Ferry Rd
Halethorpe, Maryland 21227
Time: Saturday 12 pm- 4 pm
Price: $49 (21+)

Get hog wild with the legendary KLOBY’S SMOKEHOUSE barbeque, a behind the scenes brewery experience, treats from great area restaurants, and live music!

Sports at a Glance

Contact your concierge for pricing and availability!

DC United vs Real Salt Lake, Saturday at 7 pm, RFK Stadium
Washington Wizards vs Charlotte, Saturday at 8 pm, Patriot Center
Georgetown vs Syracuse Men’s Basketball, Saturday at 12 pm, Verizon Center
Jimmy Lange Boxing, Saturday at 7 pm, Patriot Center
Washington Capitals vs New York, Sunday at 12:30 pm, Verizon Center
Maryland vs Virginia Men’s Basketball, Sunday at 6 pm, Comcast Center

Movies Opening this Weekend:

OZ the Great and Powerful
130 minutes
Action |Adventure |Fantasy
A small-time magician arrives in an enchanted land and is forced to decide if he will be a good man or a great one.
Starring James Franco, Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz, and Mila Kunis

Dead Man Down
110 minutes
Action | Crime | Drama | Thriller
In New York City, a crime lord’s right-hand man is seduced by one of his boss’s victims, a woman seeking retribution.
Starring Colin Farrell, Noomi Rapace, Dominic Cooper, and Terrence Howard

Winter Restaurant Weeks

Forget about losing those extra pounds gained over the holidays. Winter restaurant weeks (yes weeks) are coming up soon, with multi-course menu bargains. Restaurant Week provides a wonderful opportunity for visitors along with local residents to dine at some of the most popular restaurants for special prices. See the links below for a full list of participating restaurants. Make sure to make reservations or have your concierge do so on your behalf!

National Harbor Restaurant Week
March 4-17

Frederick Restaurant Week
March 4-12